{"id":1217,"date":"2026-05-26T12:09:33","date_gmt":"2026-05-26T12:09:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/?p=1217"},"modified":"2026-05-06T12:11:14","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T12:11:14","slug":"transport-insurance-roro-necessary-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/transportversicherung-roro-notwendig-guide","title":{"rendered":"Transport insurance for RoRo: Do I really need it?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although transport insurance for RoRo shipments is not required by law, it is strongly recommended. The carrier's liability is usually very limited and only covers a fraction of the value of the vehicle. A separate policy protects you against total loss, damage and other risks during the entire transport from the port of departure to the port of destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Short answer in 5 bullet points<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The carrier's liability is limited by law and usually only covers a small part of the value of the vehicle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Total-loss policies protect against total loss, while all-risk policies also cover partial losses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ICC clauses (A, B, C) define the scope of cover - ICC A offers the most comprehensive protection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The insurance costs are typically between 1 and 3 per cent of the vehicle value.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance is particularly important for high-value vehicles, classic cars or long transport routes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is carrier liability not sufficient?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many shippers assume that the shipping company will reimburse the full value of the vehicle in the event of damage. This is a widespread misconception. The carrier's liability is severely limited by international agreements such as the Hague Regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In practice, this means that even if your vehicle is damaged or lost during transport, the carrier is only liable up to a certain maximum amount per kilogramme or per unit - and this amount is far below the actual value of most vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furthermore, in many cases the shipper must prove that the damage was caused by the carrier's fault. In the event of sea damage caused by heavy seas or force majeure, the shipping company may refuse to accept liability in full.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having your own transport insurance closes this gap in cover and gives you the security you need for worry-free transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What types of transport insurance are there?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Various types of insurance are available for RoRo shipping, which differ in the scope of cover:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Total loss insurance: <\/strong>Covers only the complete loss of the vehicle, for example due to sinking of the vessel or fire. No cover for partial damage. The most favourable option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>All-risk insurance: <\/strong>Comprehensive protection against all transport risks, including partial damage, theft and damage. The recommended choice for most shipments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ICC-A cover (Institute Cargo Clauses): <\/strong>The most comprehensive standard cover with the principle \"everything is insured unless it is expressly excluded\". Ideal for high-value vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ICC-B coverage: <\/strong>Medium protection covering named risks such as fire, stranding, collision and natural disasters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ICC-C coverage: <\/strong>Basic cover, which only covers the most serious risks such as sinking, stranding and fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For most RoRo shipments, we recommend at least an all-risk cover or ICC-A clause. The additional costs compared to a total loss policy are low, but the additional protection is considerable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What exactly does transport insurance cover?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact scope of cover depends on the policy selected. A typical all-risk or ICC-A policy covers the following risks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Total loss due to destruction, fire or explosion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Partial damage due to collision, impact or improper handling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water damage due to flooding or heavy seas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theft of the entire vehicle or individual parts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage during loading and unloading<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage caused by force majeure such as storms or earthquakes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical exclusions that apply in almost all policies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Normal wear and ageing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pre-existing damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage caused by war or terrorism (separately insurable)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage due to improper packaging or inadequate load securing by the shipper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delay damages<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always read the insurance terms and conditions carefully and clarify any ambiguities with your insurer before taking out a policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does transport insurance cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cost of transport insurance depends on several factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Factor<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Influence on the premium<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vehicle value<\/td><td>Higher value = higher premium (but lower percentage)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Type of cover<\/td><td>All Risk \/ ICC A more expensive than Total Loss \/ ICC C<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Transport route<\/td><td>Longer or riskier routes are more expensive<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vehicle type<\/td><td>Classic cars, luxury vehicles and special vehicles cost more<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Deductible<\/td><td>Higher deductible lowers the premium<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Damage history<\/td><td>Frequent damage on the route increases the premium<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a rule of thumb, you can expect costs of between 1 and 3 per cent of the vehicle value. For a vehicle worth 20,000 euros, you would therefore pay around 200 to 600 euros for solid transport insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always compare several offers and pay attention not only to the price, but above all to the scope of cover and the exclusion clauses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When is transport insurance particularly important?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In principle, we always recommend transport insurance. In certain situations, however, it is particularly strongly recommended:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For high-value vehicles (new cars, luxury vehicles, sports cars)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For classic cars and collector's items with an ideal or high market value<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For long transport routes with several transhipments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For shipments to regions with increased risk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the vehicle is intended for resale and must arrive in perfect condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For commercial shipments with several vehicles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even with cheaper vehicles, insurance is worthwhile: the costs are low in relation to the transport risk, and in the event of damage it saves you considerable financial and bureaucratic effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do you take out transport insurance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Taking out transport insurance is straightforward. You have several options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Via your forwarding agent: <\/strong>Many haulage companies offer insurance as an additional service. This is the easiest way, as everything comes from a single source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directly from the insurer: <\/strong>Specialised transport insurers offer tailor-made policies, often with a better scope of cover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Via an insurance broker: <\/strong>A broker compares several offers and finds the best policy for your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Online platforms: <\/strong>Some providers enable quick online conclusion with immediate policy creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Important: Take out the insurance before handing over your vehicle to the carrier. The insurance cover should be valid from the moment of handover at the port of departure until collection at the port of destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure that you state the correct vehicle value. In the event of a claim, underinsurance will lead to a proportionate reduction in compensation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to do in the event of damage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your vehicle is damaged during transport, act quickly and systematically:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Document damage: <\/strong>Photograph all damage immediately on arrival before moving the vehicle. Document the date, time and witnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Create damage report: <\/strong>Report the damage in writing to the carrier and your insurer within the prescribed period - usually three days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Request a damage report: <\/strong>Ask the harbour staff to issue you with an official damage report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Obtain a repair cost estimate: <\/strong>An independent expert or a specialised workshop should estimate the repair costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Fill out insurance forms: <\/strong>Submit all necessary documents to your insurer and keep copies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The faster and more thoroughly you document the damage, the smoother the claims settlement process will be. Do not wait to report the claim - late reports can lead to rejection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ - Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is transport insurance compulsory for RoRo?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, transport insurance is not required by law. However, it is strongly recommended, as the carrier's liability is very limited and does not usually cover the value of the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does transport insurance for my car cost?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The costs are typically between 1 and 3 per cent of the vehicle value. So for a vehicle worth 20,000 euros, you pay around 200 to 600 euros for all-risk cover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the difference between ICC A, B and C?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">ICC A offers the most comprehensive cover and insures everything except the specifically named exclusions. ICC B covers named risks such as fire, stranding and natural disasters. ICC C offers only basic cover against serious risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does the insurance also cover damage during loading and unloading?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, an all-risk or ICC-A policy usually also covers damage during loading and unloading in the harbour. Check the exact conditions of your policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How quickly do I have to report a claim?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should document any damage as soon as it is discovered and report it in writing to the carrier and insurer within three days. Delayed reports can lead to rejection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I also insure individual vehicles?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, individual vehicles can be insured without any problems. There is no minimum number. There are also suitable framework contracts for commercial consignors with several vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transport insurance is not compulsory for RoRo shipments, but it is a wise investment. The limited carrier liability leaves you without adequate protection in the event of damage. With an all-risk or ICC-A policy, you are comprehensively covered - and at a comparatively low cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compare different offers, pay attention to the scope of cover and take out the insurance in good time before handing over the vehicle. In the event of a claim, you will be glad you took this precaution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do you have any questions or would you like a non-binding offer? Contact us directly: https:\/\/odsorient.com\/kontakt<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.<\/em><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Eine Transportversicherung bei RoRo-Verschiffung ist zwar nicht gesetzlich vorgeschrieben, aber dringend empfohlen. Die Haftung des Carriers ist in der Regel stark begrenzt und deckt nur einen Bruchteil des Fahrzeugwerts ab. Eine eigene Police schuetzt dich gegen Totalverlust, Beschaedigungen und weitere Risiken waehrend des gesamten Transports vom Abgangshafen bis zum Zielhafen. Kurzantwort in 5 Bullet Points [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1218,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1217","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1217","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1217"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1217\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1219,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1217\/revisions\/1219"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1218"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1217"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1217"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1217"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}