A recent ruling by the Rotterdam court has found an inland waterway carrier accountable for damage to a cargo of fertilizer. The shipment, transported by barge from Belgium to Germany, suffered moisture damage, causing the fertilizer to clump together. The court determined that the cargo was in good and dry condition when loaded onto the vessel, but was subsequently delivered in a damaged state. The carrier's arguments for exemption from liability were rejected.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this ruling underscores the importance of cargo care and proper handling during inland waterway transport. It highlights that carriers bear significant responsibility for maintaining cargo integrity, even for bulk commodities like fertilizer. Forwarders should ensure clear contractual terms regarding cargo condition and liability, and consider robust pre-loading and post-discharge surveys, especially for moisture-sensitive goods. This decision reinforces the need for due diligence in selecting carriers and monitoring transit conditions to mitigate risks and potential claims.
