Your Cargo Arrived Short. Who Is Liable and How Do You Prove the Shortage?
Prepared by the Maritime & Admiralty Team at Soliman Advocates
This article has been prepared by the firm's maritime lawyers as part of Soliman Advocates' Maritime Legal Insights series, drawing on the team's experience in Egyptian maritime law and shipping disputes.
A shortage claim is not established simply by showing a difference between the quantity shipped and the quantity received.
The critical question is: when and where did the shortage occur?
Review the Bill of Lading, Packing List, weight at loading and delivery, seal condition, delivery documents, and Survey or Draft Survey where appropriate.
Then determine who had custody of the cargo during the period when the shortage most likely occurred.
In shortage claims, proving when and where the shortage occurred is fundamental.
Did Your Cargo Arrive Short? Soliman Advocates – Cargo & Customs Department can review the shipping and delivery records, quantity and weight evidence, and advise on how to establish the shortage and identify potential liability.
Prepared by: Cargo & Customs Department – Soliman Advocates
Legal Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion on any specific matter or dispute. Identifying the responsible party and the appropriate recovery route depends on the nature and timing of the damage, delay or shortage, the carriage and insurance terms, the applicable law or international convention, and the specific facts of each case. Payment made to obtain release of cargo does not necessarily determine whether the amount was legally due, and the consequences of payment depend on the circumstances and manner in which it was made. The relevant documents should be reviewed with specialized legal counsel before taking any action.
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