What is the compensation process for lost or damaged international air cargo？
International air transportation involves multiple links and complex transit processes, resulting in common logistics issues such as loss, damage, and shortage of goods. Most sellers who experience damage or loss of goods are unable to receive compensation due to unfamiliarity with the claims process and missing the appeal deadline. Mastering the standard air freight claims process, time requirements, and key points of evidence is the key to safeguarding one's own rights and interests. Compliance throughout the entire process can significantly improve the success rate of claims.
The first stage is the evidence collection and reporting phase, which is the core foundation of claims settlement. After the goods arrive at the destination port or are signed for, it is necessary to complete the inspection and evidence collection within 24 hours. Failure to do so will automatically result in disqualification from claims. If any damage is found to the outer packaging, shortage of goods, or damage to the internal products, it is necessary to take photos and record videos on site as soon as possible, fully retain the status of the outer packaging, waybill information, details of the damage, and materials from the entire unboxing process. At the same time, contact the delivery person and freight forwarder for on-site confirmation, request official proof of damage and abnormal delivery receipts, and eliminate unfounded appeals.
Next is to submit claim materials and appeal. Organize complete claim materials, mainly including air waybills, commercial invoices, packing lists, evidence materials for damaged or lost goods, abnormal signing certificates, and claim application forms. Submit the complete set of documents to the shipping agent, who will then coordinate with the airline and insurance company to initiate a claim. It should be noted that airlines only compensate for damages caused by logistics transportation. Improper packaging, product quality issues, and force majeure factors are not within the scope of compensation.
The final stage is the review and compensation stage. The review cycle between airlines and insurance companies is generally 7-15 working days. After the review is approved, compensation will be made according to the declared value and transportation terms. The standard for regular air freight compensation is based on kilograms, while goods with purchased logistics insurance can be fully compensated based on their actual value. Kind reminder, high value products must purchase separate freight insurance and truthfully declare the value of the goods when shipping. Low value reporting will directly lead to a reduction in the claim amount, maximizing the avoidance of logistics losses.