Barrel shipping insurance

Are your barrel contents insured?

In most cases, barrel contents are not automatically insured when shipped from the UK to the Caribbean. Most shipping companies operate on a limited liability basis — meaning if goods are lost or damaged, you may only receive a small fixed payout, not the replacement value of your items.

What typically isn't covered

• Electronics, appliances, and high-value items
• Breakage or damage during loading and transit
• Loss due to customs seizure of restricted items
• Theft at the destination port
• Spoilage of perishable goods

How to protect yourself

• Ask your chosen supplier/agent directly whether they offer transit insurance and at what cost
• Declare the approximate value of your barrel's contents when booking
• Keep a written list of items packed and their estimated value
• Photograph the contents before sealing the barrel
• Check whether your home contents insurance covers goods in transit

Insurance comparison — coming soon

We are working on an insurance partnership to ensure an extra level of security is provided for barrel senders because we know what you send matters.