Onsurity Editorial
May 21, 2025
8 min read
13Table of Contents
When you hear ‘Marine Insurance’, do you instantly picture cargo ships on the high seas? Think again.
Marine insurance isn’t just about ocean freight. It also applies to goods transported over land—by truck, train, or air—right here in India. That’s right. If your business moves goods from one city to another, you need to understand Marine Inland Transit Insurance.
Why? Because unexpected things happen—accidents, theft, weather delays (and you name them!). And when they do, it’s your pocket on the line. This blog will break down everything you need to know about inland transit insurance in India in a way that’s realistic, engaging and easy to understand.
What is Marine Inland Insurance?
Let’s get one thing straight: you don’t need to be near a sea or a ship to need marine insurance India.
Marine inland transit insurance is all about covering your goods while they are being transported within the country. Whether you are moving goods by road, rail or air, this marine insurance policy kicks in to protect cargo from Point A to Point B.
So, if you are a distributor, wholesaler, manufacturer, or even a trader, and you send goods across state lines regularly, this marine cargo insurance is your safety net. Think of it as a financial seatbelt for your cargo.
Why Inland Transit Owners Need to Pay Attention
Running an inland logistics operation in India isn’t a walk in the park. Here’s what you are up against:
- Highways full of unpredictability: Potholes, diversions, reckless driving.
- Weather woes: Heavy rain, fog, heatwaves—India’s climate can mess with delivery schedules and cargo safety.
- Theft and pilferage: Especially in unsecured loading bays or while parked.
- Mechanical breakdowns and accidents: These can delay shipments and risk damage.
- Subcontractors and third-party handlers: They might not always treat your goods with care.
Even if you hire a transporter, you are still liable for the goods until they reach your client safely. And if something goes wrong mid-journey? The blame could fall on you.
What Marine Insurance Covers
So, what exactly do you get when you buy a marine inland transit insurance policy in India?
According to top Indian insurers, here are the common inland transit insurance coverage inclusions:
- Accidental damage during transit
- Theft, burglary, or pilferage
- Fire or explosion
- Natural calamities like floods, storms, or earthquakes
- Overturning, derailment or collision of the vehicle
- Loading and unloading damage (if specifically included)
- Riots or strikes
Some marine insurance providers also offer optional extensions, such as:
- Storage risks during transit
- Multiple delivery drop coverage
- Coverage during temporary halts
- Loading and unloading risks
The Indian insurance market provides goods in transit insurance coverage options that are tailored to the specific risks of inland transit within India. They understand the local road conditions, weather patterns and logistics challenges, ensuring that your Inland Transit Insurance Policy offers the most relevant protection.
Choosing a trustworthy platform such as Onsurity also helps you get better customer service, transparent terms and assistance with any claims issues—important when you need a hassle-free marine insurance experience.
What Marine Insurance Doesn’t Cover
OPD treatment is convenient, as patients can receive medical care without the need for overnight hospitalisation, allowing them to continue with their daily activities and routines.
Here’s what’s generally excluded (based on standard marine insurance India policies):
- Wilful misconduct or negligence
- Improper packing of goods
- War or nuclear risks
- Delay without physical damage
- Losses after goods are delivered
- Fraudulent claims
- Used goods (unless disclosed and accepted)
Also, if you under-declare the value of the goods, expect a problem during marine insurance claims. Marine cargo insurance providers only pay based on the declared value.
Suggested Read: What is Workmen Compensation Policy?
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What Impacts the Marine Insurance Premium?
Now let’s talk about money. What determines the marine insurance premium you will pay?
Here are key factors:
- Type of cargo: Electronics or perishable goods cost more to insure than goods like steel rods.
- Value of goods: Higher value = higher marine insurance premium.
- Distance and route risk: High-risk routes or longer distances may increase the cost.
- Mode of transport: Road, rail or air—each has different pricing.
- Packaging quality: Poor packaging = higher risk = higher marine insurance cost.
- Frequency of transit: Regular shipments might qualify you for annual or open cover discounts.
So, if you are Googling “affordable inland transit insurance India,” know that it’s your cargo details and route that shape the pricing.
Marine Insurance Claim Process
Filing a claim in marine cargo insurance doesn’t have to be painful—if you know the steps. Here’s a simplified Inland Transit Insurance Policy claims process tailored for Indian businesses:
- Notify your insurer immediately after the loss—usually within 24 to 48 hours.
- Collect proof: Take photos of the damaged cargo, the accident site and the vehicle.
- Get an FIR or transporter’s damage report, especially in cases of theft or accidents.
- Fill out the claim form from your marine insurance policy provider (available online/offline).
- Submit all documents, including invoice, policy copy, LR (lorry receipt) and consignment details.
- Let the surveyor assess the damage. Cooperate with them fully.
- Track your goods in transit insurance claim status online or via customer care.
Keep all documents handy and never delay reporting. Timely action = faster payout.
Also, read: 6 Types of Business Insurance Policies to Protect Your Company
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejected Marine Cargo Insurance Claims
Don’t let simple mistakes cost you big money. Here are common errors inland transit owners in India make:
- Not declaring full cargo value: Marine cargo insurance providers only pay what you declare.
- Delaying the claim notification: Missed the 48-hour window? Say goodbye to your payout.
- Giving misleading information: Any false details in the marine cargo insurance claim = automatic rejection.
- Missing key documents: No LR copy or damage report? That’s a red flag for goods in transit insurance providers.
Pro tip: Always maintain a checklist of documents to avoid these common pitfalls.
How to Buy the Right Marine Insurance Policy?
Buying the right marine inland transit insurance isn’t just about comparing prices. It’s about customisation and understanding your risks.
Here’s how to choose smartly:
- Go through a trusted marine insurance broker or directly via reputed insurers who understand inland logistics.
- Explain your route, cargo type and delivery pattern in detail. Don’t hide info.
- Ask for marine insurance policy add-ons like loading/unloading cover or multi-drop shipment protection.
- Bundle it with other business policies like fire insurance, stock insurance or general liability. It saves time and may offer better deals.
Make sure you read the fine print. Or better yet, work with an expert who can do that for you.
Quick read: What is Asset Insurance?
Conclusion
To wrap it up, marine insurance isn’t just for sea cargo. If you are moving goods across India, inland transit insurance is your frontline defence against loss, damage, and liability.
It protects your cargo. It protects your business. And it protects your peace of mind.
At Onsurity, we understand the unique challenges faced by Indian businesses in the logistics and supply chain space. Whether you are a manufacturer sending daily shipments or an SME using third-party transporters, we offer smart, customisable marine insurance solutions—including inland transit cover that fits your route, cargo type and business size.
Ready to protect your cargo the smart way?
Talk to Onsurity today. Your transit deserves more than just hope—it deserves insurance that works.
FAQs
1. Is marine insurance really for land transport too?
Yes, marine insurance can also cover land transport. Despite its name, marine insurance india includes coverage for goods transported by land, especially when they are part of a larger shipment involving sea or air routes. This is known as Inland Transit Insurance and protects cargo during its journey from the warehouse to the port or vice versa. It ensures comprehensive protection across all stages of the supply chain.
2. What’s the difference between inland transit and cargo insurance?
Inland transit insurance covers goods transported within a country by road, rail or inland waterways. This marine insurance policy is primarily for domestic shipments and protects against risks like theft, accidents, or damage during land transport. On the other hand, marine cargo insurance covers goods transported internationally, whether by sea, air or land and is often part of marine insurance. Marine cargo insurance offers broader protection, including during loading, unloading and storage. In essence, inland transit is primarily for local transport, while marine cargo insurance is meant for global or multimodal shipments.
3. Can I take a policy for a single shipment?
Yes, you can take a marine inland transit insurance policy for a single shipment. This is known as a specific or single transit policy, and it provides marine insurance coverage for a one-time consignment transported within the country. It’s ideal for businesses or individuals who do not have regular shipments and want protection against risks like theft, fire, or accidents during that specific transit.
4. Does it cover multiple delivery drops in a single trip?
A marine inland transit insurance policy can cover multiple delivery drops in a single trip, but it depends on the terms and conditions of the policy. You must inform the insurer about the planned route and multiple delivery points at the time of purchase. Some insurers may require a detailed itinerary to ensure all stops are covered. Always check the policy wording or consult your insurer to confirm marine insurance coverage for multi-drop deliveries.
5. Do I need to declare the exact value of goods each time?
Yes, for a specific or single transit inland marine insurance policy, you usually need to declare the exact value of the goods being transported each time. This ensures accurate premium calculation and appropriate claim settlement in case of loss or damage. For annual or open marine insurance policies, declarations may be made periodically, depending on the agreement with the insurer. Always provide truthful and complete information to avoid claim disputes.
6. What if I’m using a third-party logistics company—am I still liable?
Yes, even if you are using a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) company, you may still be liable for any damage or loss to the goods during transit, depending on the terms of your contract. Logistics companies often have limited liability and their coverage might not fully compensate you in case of major losses. That’s why it’s advisable to have your own inland transit insurance to ensure full protection of your goods. Always review the 3PL agreement and your marine insurance policy carefully.
7. Can I combine marine with other business insurance?
Yes, you can combine marine insurance with other business insurance policies. Many insurers offer comprehensive business packages that include marine (cargo or inland transit), property, liability and other types of coverage under one plan. This simplifies policy management, minimises administrative labour and may be more cost-effective. However, coverage limits and conditions vary, so it is critical to customise the package to your specific business requirements.
8. Can I claim if the goods get damaged while loading/unloading?
Yes, you can claim if the goods get damaged during loading or unloading, provided your marine insurance policy includes that coverage. Many policies offer protection against such risks, but it must be clearly stated in the policy terms. Some basic plans may exclude loading/unloading damages unless specifically added as an extension. Always check the inclusions and exclusions in your marine insurance policy or ask your insurer for clarity.
9. Is there a limit to how far or long goods in transit must be covered?
Yes, some marine inland transit insurance policies may have limits on distance and duration of coverage. The policy usually covers goods from the point of dispatch to the point of delivery within a specified geographical area (often within India) and time frame (e.g., 7 to 30 days). If the transit exceeds the specified duration or deviates from the declared route, coverage may not apply unless extensions are arranged in advance. Always confirm the policy’s territorial and time limits with your insurer.
