Broker maps out five-point risk management plan

AIRPORTS ARE the new hunting ground for criminal syndicates which are fast and professional, according to Jean Roos of marine insurance brokers, Prestmarine. “A string of heists and armed robberies have plagued the airport in the last couple of years,” he told FTW, “raising serious concerns about the control and safety of Africa’s biggest gateway.” Roos suggested five steps to manage risk better when it comes to airfreight. The first is by insuring cargo. “Cover can be bought against loss or damage to your cargo at a minimal premium,” said Roos. “There is a misperception in the market that marine insurance is expensive. “But it’s not, and we recommend contact with a specialist marine insurance broker to assist with risk management requirements and for professional insurance advice.” Packing is another factor. Said Roos: “One of the exclusions on a marine policy is insufficient packing. So it is important that your cargo is packed sufficiently well to sustain the normal handling, humps-and-bumps in transit.” Advertising also has to be taken into account. “Advertising on packaging of valuable cargo must be avoided at all cost,” said Roos. “One way of combating this is by using black shrink wrapping.” Another lesson to be learnt is only to use reliable freight operators. “By working with your marine insurance broker, underwriters, police and security companies we can combat crime together.”