If you import into, or export goods from the United States, a significant percentage of your product costs can be attributed to international cargo transportation. A careful review of your carriage contracts, whether involving ocean, air or land carriers can be not only beneficial in saving you money on direct transportation costs, but also minimizing the impact of cargo delivery interruption (such as cargo loss, damage or diversion) that may impose unanticipated future expenses on your company, particularly given the statutory cargo loss limitations enjoyed by the shipping lines and the cargo and combi airlines. This firm has substantial knowledge of the current Federal Maritime Commission regulatory structure and experience and how it impacts the content and structure of your cargo carriage agreements. Our expertise in this area includes:
- The review and revision of maritime shipping contracts;
- Dealing with cargo container quality and security issues;
- Interpreting INCOTERMS;
- Reviewing ocean bills of lading, air waybills, inland bills of lading, commercial invoices and packing lists, among other key shipping documents;
- Ensuring that appropriate insurance coverage is in place for your international shipments;
- Evaluating the trader’s use of Incoterms and advising on the cost and insurance implications of their selection.
