Vehicle Shipping Insurance Explained: What's Covered and What's Not

Everything you need to know about marine transit insurance for vehicle shipping — coverage, exclusions, claims, and when to upgrade.

Frequently asked questions

Is my car insured during shipping?

Yes. The Ship Cars includes Institute Cargo Clauses (A) all-risks marine transit insurance as standard on every vehicle shipment.

What if my car is damaged during loading?

Loading damage is covered under all-risks insurance. Document the damage on the condition report and notify The Ship Cars immediately.

How much does additional shipping insurance cost?

Enhanced agreed-value coverage typically costs 0.5–1.5% of the declared vehicle value. For a £20,000 vehicle, this would be £100–£300.

Can I use my own car insurance for shipping?

Standard UK motor insurance does not cover ocean transit. Marine transit insurance is a specialist product — The Ship Cars includes this as part of the shipping service.

Does the carrier's liability cover replace marine insurance?

No. Carrier liability under the Hague-Visby Rules is capped at 2 SDR per kg of cargo (approximately £1.80/kg in 2026). A 1,800kg saloon recovers a maximum of £3,240 — useless on a £30,000 car. Marine cargo insurance is mandatory in practice, not optional.

Can I use my existing UK motor policy during the voyage?

No. UK motor policies cover road use, not marine transit. Most policies explicitly exclude transit by sea. Always arrange separate marine cargo cover for the ocean leg and re-instate local motor cover at destination before driving.

Get a free quote · WhatsApp +44 7376 584421 · info@theshipcars.co.uk