Marine Insurance for Car Shipping UK — Full Guide (2026)

Default carrier liability on international car shipping is £100 per kilo — about £150,000 on a 1.5-tonne saloon, but capped per consignment and excluding most damage causes. Real protection comes from separate marine insurance at 1.4–2.2% of declared value. This 2026 guide explains the policy types, what's covered, what's excluded and the claims process.

Carrier liability under the Hague-Visby Rules caps at SDR 666.67 per package (around £700) or SDR 2 per kg (£2,100 on 1.5-tonne car), whichever is higher. It excludes acts of God, war, customer-loaded items and most pre-existing damage. Marine insurance is a separate policy covering the vehicle to declared value against named perils. Always carry marine insurance for any vehicle worth over £5,000. See Hague-Visby Rules.

Two policy types. (1) All-risks (Institute Cargo Clauses A) — covers any physical loss or damage except specified exclusions (war, strikes, wear and tear). Premium 1.8–2.2% of value. Right for high-value vehicles. (2) Total-loss-only (ICC C with named perils) — covers only complete vessel loss, fire, collision, jettison. Premium 0.6–1.0% of value. Right for older vehicles where partial damage is acceptable risk.

Agreed-value cover pays the declared sum on total loss regardless of book value. Market-value cover pays the depreciated trade value at time of loss. Always demand agreed-value for classics, modified or appreciating cars — book value bears no relation to replacement cost. For modern depreciating cars, market-value cover is acceptable and cheaper. See our classic car service.

Per single shipment, all-risks cover door-to-door: £15,000 vehicle UK to UAE — £270 premium (1.8%); £30,000 UK to USA — £540; £60,000 UK to Australia — £1,260; £150,000 classic UK to Hong Kong — £3,300. Premiums are one-time per voyage, not annual. Lloyd's of London syndicates underwrite most UK marine insurance.

Six-step claims process. (1) Document damage with photos before unloading completion. (2) Note damage on the destination delivery receipt — silence implies acceptance. (3) Notify the freight forwarder within 72 hours. (4) Submit claim form within 14 days with photos, repair quote and bill of lading. (5) Surveyor inspection arranged by insurer (typically 5–10 days). (6) Settlement within 30–45 days for confirmed claims. Keep all original documents — copies are not accepted.

Marine insurance at 1.4–2.2% of declared value turns carrier liability from a £2,100 cap into full vehicle protection. Always choose all-risks cover for vehicles over £30,000 and agreed-value for classics or appreciating cars. The £270–£3,300 one-time premium is invisible against the £15,000–£150,000 asset risk. Forwarders who treat marine insurance as optional are not the right partner.

Get full marine insurance with every booking. Request a quote or WhatsApp +44 (0)1495 320540.