Declared Value & Liability Policy

Effective Date: October 1, 2025
Carrier: Finch Hotshot Delivery

At Finch Hotshot Delivery, we take great care in transporting your freight. However, we are not an insurer of cargo. The following policy explains how liability for loss or damage is handled, and how shippers may declare a higher value if desired.

1. Standard Liability

Unless otherwise agreed in writing prior to pickup, Finch Hotshot Delivery’s maximum liability for cargo loss or damage shall be limited to:

  • $2.00 per pound of actual weight of the damaged or lost goods,

  • subject to a $100 minimum per shipment.

2. Declared Value Option

Shippers may declare a higher value for their freight by:

  1. Writing the declared value in the “Declared Value” field on the Bill of Lading, before pickup, and

  2. Agreeing to the additional declared value surcharge.

The declared value represents the maximum liability of Finch Hotshot Delivery in the event of loss or damage, regardless of the actual value of the goods.

Declared Value Surcharge:

  • 1% of the declared value above the standard liability limit, subject to a $25 minimum charge.

3. Exclusions from Coverage

Finch Hotshot Delivery shall not be liable for loss, damage, or delay caused by:

  • Acts of God, public enemies, or authority of law

  • Inherent vice or nature of the goods

  • Improper or insufficient packaging, loading, or securing by the shipper

  • Concealed damage not noted at the time of delivery

  • Special commodities (cash, jewelry, negotiable instruments, hazardous materials, perishable goods, and electronics exceeding $5,000 in value) unless authorized in writing prior to shipment

4. Claims Procedure

  • All claims must be submitted in writing within 7 calendar days of delivery or scheduled delivery.

  • Claims must include proof of value (invoice, receipt, or appraisal), photographs, and documentation of loss or damage.

  • Settlements will not exceed the lesser of:

    • The repair cost,

    • The replacement cost, or

    • The declared value (if applicable).

5. Insurance Disclaimer

Finch Hotshot Delivery is not an insurer. If shipper requires cargo insurance coverage beyond declared value, it is the shipper’s responsibility to arrange separate insurance.

6. Agreement to Policy

By tendering freight to Finch Hotshot Delivery, the shipper acknowledges and agrees to be bound by the terms of this Declared Value & Liability Policy.