Insurance FAQs

Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Last Updated: March 29, 2026

Understanding transit insurance is critical for protecting your goods during transportation. This comprehensive FAQ guide explains how insurance works within the context of services facilitated by Shiftkart Logistics.

1. What is Transit Insurance?

Transit insurance is a policy designed to cover the cost of repair or replacement of goods if they are damaged, lost, or destroyed while being transported from one location to another. Standard carrier liability is often limited by weight, meaning it may not cover the actual value of a damaged item (like an expensive television). Transit insurance bridges this gap.

2. Does Shiftkart Logistics provide insurance directly?

No. We do not underwrite or sell insurance policies directly. However, we strongly advise all customers to procure insurance. We can facilitate the purchase of a policy through our recognized third-party insurance partners during the quotation phase, or you are free to arrange your own coverage through your preferred insurance provider.

3. How do I request insurance for my shipment?

When our team contacts you to discuss your inquiry, simply state that you require transit insurance. You will need to provide a detailed, itemized list of the goods being transported along with their declared current value. The insurance premium will be calculated based on this declared value and added to your final quotation as a separate line item.

4. What does a typical transit insurance policy cover?

While policies vary by provider, comprehensive transit insurance typically covers damage resulting from:

• Major accidents involving the transport vehicle (collisions, overturning).
• Fire, lightning, or explosions during transit.
• Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes) affecting the route.
• Theft or non-delivery of the entire consignment.

5. What is usually NOT covered?

Common exclusions in transit insurance policies include:

• Self-Packed Items: Damage to items packed by the customer inside boxes, unless the box itself shows severe external trauma from the accident.
• Mechanical Derangement: Internal failure of electronics (e.g., a fridge that stops cooling) without any visible external physical damage.
• Sentimental Value: Insurance only covers monetary value, not the emotional value of antiques, photos, or heirlooms.
• Perishables: Food items, plants, or anything that can spoil.
• Cash and Jewelry: Cash, jewelry, deeds, and highly valuable personal documents are almost never covered and should be transported personally.

6. How is the insurance premium calculated?

The premium is generally calculated as a percentage of the total declared value of your goods. This percentage typically ranges from 1.5% to 3%, depending on the nature of the goods, the distance of the transit, and the specific insurance provider's rates. Applicable GST will also be added to the premium amount.

7. How do I file a claim if something is damaged?

If you notice damage upon delivery, you must:

1. Note the specific damage on the delivery receipt (POD) before signing it.
2. Take clear photographs of the damaged item and its packaging immediately.
3. Notify Shiftkart Logistics within 24 hours. We will provide you with the necessary transit documents (e.g., Lorry Receipt) required by the insurance company.
4. File the claim directly with the third-party insurance provider using their designated portal or contact email.