General Average
General Average is a maritime principle under which qualifying extraordinary sacrifices or expenses made to preserve a common maritime adventure may be shared among the interests involved.
Understand it in practiceWhere it fits in the journey
Highlighted stages are commonly relevant- 01Agree — commonly relevant
- 02Prepare — commonly relevant
- 03Transport — commonly relevant
- 04Clear — commonly relevant
- 05Deliver — commonly relevant
General Average at a glance
- Common maritime danger
- Extraordinary sacrifice or expense
- Contribution assessment
What may a cargo owner need to provide before release?
Cargo owners may need to provide security before release. Ask how the cargo policy addresses general-average contributions.
Do not confuse these protections
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Carrier liability | Responsibility under transport terms and law |
| Declared value | A declaration that may affect contractual liability |
| Cargo insurance | Cover under a separate policy with its own conditions |
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Before you book
For cargo protection, have these details ready:
- Insured goods, journey and value
- Exclusions, limits and deductible
- Condition photos, records and claims procedure
Sources & further reading
Plain-language educational guidance. The applicable contract, carrier tariff, official rules or insurance policy takes precedence. Illustrations show concepts, not a specific shipment or facility.
Published by Allwayforward as a plain-language freight reference. Examples are illustrative, not customer case studies. For a correction, send the term and supporting source.