
FedEx shipping insurance is a game-changer for businesses that rely on timely and secure package delivery. FedEx offers a range of insurance options to protect against loss, damage, or theft of shipments.
You can choose from three coverage levels: $0.60, $1.25, and $2.50 per pound, depending on your business needs. This flexibility allows you to balance your budget with the level of protection you require.
Whether you're shipping fragile products or valuable electronics, FedEx shipping insurance has got you covered. With this protection, you can focus on growing your business without worrying about financial losses due to shipping mishaps.
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Benefits and Features
FedEx shipping insurance offers several benefits and features to protect your business.
Partial protection against loss of goods during transit is one of the key benefits, helping to reduce the risk to your business for owned resources not under your immediate control.
You can also get assistance identifying package value for customs agents and third-party insurance agents, which can be a big help when dealing with international shipments.
Damage is more common than loss, with up to 11 percent of packages damaged during transit.
According to a study, the percentage of damaged packages by carrier is as follows:
The first $100 of insurance doesn't cost anything, but if the value of the package is higher, you can purchase additional coverage to cover potential losses.
Cost and Coverage
FedEx shipping insurance costs vary based on the type of service you select and the items you plan to ship.
The cost of insurance for FedEx SameDay & SameDay City services is $3 for shipments up to $300, and $1.25 per $100 for declared values over $300.
For U.S. Express package service, U.S. Ground service, and International Ground services, the additional cost is $3.90 for shipments valued up to $300, and $1 per $100 of declared value over $300.
If you state the value is in excess of $500, Direct Signature Confirmation service is required, but comes at no additional insurance cost.
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If you ship multiple items together, keep in mind that insurance covers the entire package, regardless of the value of each item shipped.
Here's a breakdown of the additional declared value coverage charge for FedEx:
For shipments valued over $300, the additional charge is $1.30 per $100 of declared value.
For example, if your shipment is valued at $950, the math works out as follows:
- First $300 in value = $3.90
- $301 - $900 in value = $7.80 ($1.30 x six $100 units)
- $901 - $950 in value = $1.30 (one $100 unit)
- TOTAL (ADDITIONAL DECLARED VALUE COVERAGE CHARGE) = $13.00
You can declare value of up to $50,000 for most delivery types, $2,000 for FedEx SameDay, and $1,000 for easily damaged items per the FedEx Service Guide.
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Claims and Limitations
Claims must be made within 60 days after the shipment is sent for FedEx Express, and within 21 days for international packages. For FedEx Ground, claims have a nine-month window from the delivery date, but if the item is lost or missing, it must be reported within 60 days.
If you're making a claim for damage, keep all packing materials handy as FedEx might ask to inspect the items. You'll also need to provide supporting photos of the packaging and damaged contents, and prove the value through original receipts, itemized repair invoices, or appraisals.
FedEx might limit the amount you can declare for certain items, such as artwork, photos, and jewelry, with a maximum declared value of up to $1,000.
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Claims Process
Filing a claim with FedEx can be a straightforward process, but it's essential to follow the right steps to ensure a smooth resolution.
You can file a claim online, by email, or by fax, depending on the type of claim you're making. For international claims, fax or mail is required.
FedEx Express requires claims to be made within 60 days of shipment, while international packages have a 21-day window. FedEx Ground claims have a nine-month window, but lost or missing items must be reported within 60 days.
To file a claim online, you'll need to log in to your FedEx account and complete the shipping information form. You may also need to provide supporting photos of the packaging and damaged contents.
Here are the key steps to follow when filing a claim:
- Provide supporting photos of the packaging and damaged contents
- Prove the value through original receipts, itemized repair invoices, or appraisals
- Complete an inspection report for declared values under $1,000
- Schedule a package inspection for higher declared values
After submitting your claim, contact FedEx customer service to get a case number, which you can use to track the status of your claim.
Claims are usually resolved within a week, and once approved, reimbursement for the declared value is sent.
Exclusions and Limitations
FedEx's declared value coverage comes with specific exclusions and limitations. Items like cash, precious stones, and certain electronic devices may have limited or no coverage.
Live animals are excluded from coverage, so if you're shipping a pet, you'll need to take extra precautions to ensure their safety.
Cash and other monetary instruments, such as traveler's checks and money orders, are also excluded from coverage, so it's best to avoid shipping these items altogether.
Items with declared values exceeding the coverage limit are not covered, so be sure to check the limit before shipping your items.
Damage caused by improper packaging is not covered, so make sure to pack your items carefully and securely.
Here are some common FedEx package exclusions:
- Live animals
- Cash and other monetary instruments
- Items with declared values exceeding the coverage limit
- Damage caused by improper packaging
For example, if you're shipping a valuable item like artwork, you're limited to a maximum declared value of up to $1,000, depending on the item and its contents.
InsureShield Options
You can choose from various InsureShield options to suit your business needs. InsureShield offers multi-carrier protection, including FedEx, USPS, DHL, and others.
With InsureShield, you can access an online portal 24/7 to file claims and more. This convenience is a big plus for businesses that need to manage their shipping insurance on the go.
InsureShield Complete is a policy that covers everything from small packages to freight in one easy policy. This can be a great option for businesses that ship a wide range of items.
If you're looking for a more customized solution, you can also use the InsureShield App for Shopify to set your insurance preferences and offer protection during checkout. This can be a great way to streamline your shipping insurance process and provide a better customer experience.
Here are some key features of InsureShield:
- Parcel, ground, air, and ocean freight coverage available
- Multi-carrier protection, including FedEx, USPS, DHL, and others
- 24/7 access to an online portal for filing claims and more
Remember, InsureShield is just one of the options available for FedEx shipping insurance. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best fits your business needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shipping insurance is a service that protects shippers against potential losses from lost, stolen, or damaged packages during transit.
The declared value of a shipment is based on the replacement value of the item, not its retail price or the amount the customer paid.
It's not always financially wise to purchase shipping insurance, so it's essential to weigh the actual risks and potential costs before deciding.
Carriers often have stringent and convoluted claims processes, requiring extensive evidence and paperwork, which can be time-consuming and sometimes result in claim denials.
Lost or damaged shipments are relatively rare, but when they do occur, the financial and reputational implications can be significant.
Most items can be insured, but carriers often have maximum liability limits, so it's essential to check with your carrier for specific restrictions or limitations.
The declared value represents the maximum amount a carrier is liable for, and shippers need to validate damages up to this declared amount in case of a claim.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does FedEx pay for a damaged package?
FedEx reimburses up to $100 per package plus shipping charges for a damaged package. To recover the loss, the party who paid the shipping charges must file a claim.
Is it worth it to insure a package?
Whether to insure a package depends on its value, with expensive items benefiting from protection and low-value items often being easier to replace. Consider adding insurance for valuable packages to save your bottom line and reputation.
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