Comprehensive Guide to Goods in Transit (GIT) Insurance with ICExpress

Navigating the world of logistics means ensuring your valuable shipments are protected every step of the way. At ICExpress, we understand the critical importance of safeguarding your goods during transit. That’s why we offer Goods in Transit (GIT) Insurance, a vital protection designed to give you peace of mind from pickup to delivery across South Africa.

Why is GIT Insurance Essential for Your Shipments?

In the dynamic world of logistics, unforeseen events can occur. Whether it's an accident, theft, or damage during handling, the financial implications of uninsured goods can be substantial. GIT insurance acts as a crucial safety net, protecting your business from financial loss and allowing you to focus on growth.

What is Goods in Transit (GIT) Insurance?

Goods in Transit (GIT) insurance provides comprehensive coverage for loss or damage to your goods while they are being transported from one location to another. This includes movement via land, air, or sea within South African borders. It’s designed to cover risks associated with transportation, providing financial security for both the goods themselves and potential liabilities for the transporter.

Scope of Coverage with ICExpress

Our GIT insurance, facilitated through our trusted partners, offers broad protection:

Accidental Damage: Covers damage to goods caused by unforeseen accidents during transit.
Loss Due to Theft: Protects against the loss of goods due to theft while in our care.
Loading and Unloading Incidents: Covers damage or loss that may occur during the critical phases of loading onto or unloading from the transport vehicle.
Fire and Explosion: Protection against loss or damage caused by fire or explosion.
Pilferage: Covers loss due to minor theft of a portion of the goods.

Activating Your GIT Insurance with ICExpress

Ensuring your shipment is insured with ICExpress is a straightforward process:

Selection on Waybill: For every shipment, you must explicitly select the insurance option on your waybill or online quote. This is a mandatory step to activate coverage.
Declare Full Value: It is crucial to declare the full and accurate value of your consignment. Undervaluing goods can lead to claims being rejected or compensation being limited to the undervalued amount.
ICExpress Responsibility: Once insurance is activated, ICExpress will be responsible for your parcel until it is successfully delivered, subject to the terms and conditions.

Important Terms and Conditions for Claims

To ensure a smooth claims process, please familiarise yourself with the following key terms:

Goods Moved at Owner's Risk (Unless Insured)

Please note that in terms of our standard terms and conditions, goods are generally moved at the owner's risk unless GIT insurance is specifically activated for that shipment. We highly advise purchasing insurance cover for the full value of your consignment through our pre-arranged insurance option or your own broker.

Outsourced Brokerage for Claims

When insurance is purchased through ICExpress, it's important to understand that we outsource this service to a reputable Insurance Brokerage. All claims are then handled directly by this sub-contracted Brokerage, ensuring expert assessment and processing.

Excess Amount Calculation

In the event of a claim, an excess amount will be applicable. This is calculated at the HIGHER of R500.00 or 10% of the value of the goods (or claim amount). Please factor this into your financial planning.

Proof of Delivery Requirement for Claims

A claim for damage or loss will only be considered if the Proof of Delivery (POD) clearly states that the shipment was delivered incomplete or damaged. Always inspect your shipment upon arrival before signing the POD.

Lodgement Period for Claims

All claims, along with supporting documentation, must be lodged within 24 hours after the delivery of the shipment. Prompt reporting is essential for a valid claim.

Consequences of Undervaluation

As mentioned, undervaluing your goods on the waybill or quote may result in any submitted claims being rejected or the compensation being based solely on the undervalued amount, significantly impacting your recovery in case of loss or damage.

Benefits of Choosing ICExpress GIT Insurance

Partnering with ICExpress for your GIT insurance needs provides several distinct advantages:

Comprehensive Protection: Safeguard your investments against a wide range of transit risks.
Simplified Process: Easily activate insurance directly on your waybill.
Expert Handling: Benefit from claims processed by experienced insurance brokerages.
Peace of Mind: Focus on your core business knowing your shipments are secure.
Compliance: Ensure your business is protected in line with industry best practices for goods in transit.

Common Exclusions to Be Aware Of

While comprehensive, GIT insurance typically has certain exclusions. These often include:

Loss or damage due to improper or inadequate packaging.
Consequential loss or indirect damages.
Loss due to inherent vice or nature of the goods (e.g., spoilage of perishable goods).
Loss or damage due to war, terrorism, or civil unrest (often covered by SASRIA, a separate special risks insurer in South Africa).
Loss or damage occurring outside the specified territorial limits (e.g., outside South Africa).

Always review the full terms and conditions provided by the brokerage for a complete list of what is and isn't covered.

Ready to Ship with Confidence?

At ICExpress, we are committed to providing reliable and secure courier services. Our Goods in Transit insurance option is a testament to this commitment, offering you an added layer of protection for your valuable consignments. Choose ICExpress for secure, assured, and worry-free deliveries across South Africa.

For further assistance or to discuss specific insurance requirements, please do not hesitate to contact our support team.