When you hand your goods to a courier, you're trusting them with items that may be worth hundreds, thousands, or tens of thousands of pounds. Understanding courier insurance — what it covers and what it doesn't — is essential for any business that ships regularly.
Types of Courier Insurance Professional couriers typically carry two types of insurance: Public Liability Insurance (covers third-party injury or property damage caused by the courier's negligence) and Goods in Transit Insurance (covers loss or damage to the items being transported). Both are essential; neither alone is sufficient.
What Goods in Transit Covers Standard goods-in-transit policies cover loss or damage during transit, typically up to a per-consignment limit. The limit varies by courier and policy — common levels are £10,000 or £25,000 per shipment. For high-value items, check the policy limit matches your item's value.
What It Doesn't Cover Standard goods-in-transit insurance typically excludes: items of exceptional value (artwork, antiques, cash), inherently fragile items broken due to inadequate packaging, items that require specialised handling not specified at booking, and losses due to delay (consequential loss). Always read the exclusions carefully.
For High-Value Shipments If you're shipping items worth more than the standard policy limit, discuss this with your courier before booking. Specialist coverage can often be arranged, or you may need to use your own business insurance for the shipment and require proof of the courier's liability.
Documentation Best Practices Always photograph high-value items before handover, retain purchase receipts or valuations, and ensure the item's condition is documented. Electronic proof of delivery provides the timestamp and handover evidence needed for any insurance claim.
