Part 370 — Loss and Damage Claims and Salvage

The FMCSA rulebook for cargo loss, damage, injury, delay, claim handling, and salvage.

Applies to carriers and forwarders handling cargo loss, damage, injury, delay, or shortage claims.

A valid claim needs writing, shipment ID, asserted liability, and a specific or determinable money amount.

POD notes, bad-order reports, appraisal reports, and inspections are evidence, not automatic claims.

Claim acknowledgment should track received date, claim number, shipment, missing documents, and insurance notice.

Investigation should gather documents, photos, driver statements, temp records, invoices, and liability facts.

Claims should be paid, declined, settled, or updated in writing within the required timeline.

Delay, shortage, injury, and perishable freight claims need fast documentation and proof.

Salvage should preserve value, allow inspection, document disposal, and reduce claim exposure where possible.

A practical checklist for written claims, deadlines, evidence, insurer notice, salvage, and final response.

Poor claim control can damage cashflow, insurance history, broker relationships, and settlements.