Importer and wholesaler insurance
Importers and wholesalers carry risk across the whole supply chain, from goods on a ship overseas to stock in your warehouse and products in your customers' hands. Under Australian Consumer Law, importers can be treated as the manufacturer of goods made overseas, so products liability is critical.
Risks importers and wholesalers face
- Liability for injury or damage caused by imported products
- Cargo damaged or lost at sea, in the air or on the road
- Fire, flood or theft at your warehouse
- Supply chain delays affecting income
- General average contributions on sea freight
- Cyber attacks on ordering and inventory systems
What wholesaler insurance usually includes
Public Liability Insurance
Products liability that reflects your position as an importer under Australian Consumer Law.
Marine Transit Insurance
Annual cargo cover for imports and domestic distribution.
Business Package Insurance
Warehouse stock, contents, theft and business interruption.
What to check before you buy
If the overseas manufacturer has no place of business in Australia, you may be treated as the manufacturer for liability purposes, so your products liability limit and policy wording matter. We'll also review your Incoterms, to confirm when risk passes to you, and whether your stock sum insured covers peak inventory levels.
Why work with a broker?
Policies that look similar on price can differ a great deal in what they pay for. As your broker, we act on your behalf: we ask the right questions about your business, compare options, explain the fine print in plain language and support you through any claim, wherever you are in Australia.
Common questions
Am I liable for products I import?
Under Australian Consumer Law, an importer can be treated as the manufacturer if the overseas maker has no place of business in Australia. Products liability insurance is essential.
What is marine cargo insurance?
It covers your goods against loss or damage while being shipped, by sea, air or road, typically on an annual basis for regular importers.
Is my warehouse stock covered under my transit policy?
Usually only while in transit or for a limited time in storage. Warehouse stock is normally covered under a business package or ISR policy.
Do I need to tell my insurer where my products are made?
Yes. Insurers usually ask where products are manufactured and what they are, as this affects the risk and premium. Declaring your suppliers and product range accurately makes sure your products liability responds when you need it.
Does product recall insurance cover imported goods?
Product recall insurance is a separate, specialised cover that can include imported goods. It covers costs such as notifying customers, retrieving and disposing of products. Products liability doesn’t cover the cost of a recall itself.
How to get a quote
Getting a quote for your business is simple, and there is no obligation. Call Carly on 0497 100 469 or send an email with your business name and ABN, a short description of what you do, your approximate turnover and number of staff, a copy of your current policy schedule if you have one, and details of any claims in the last five years.
If your contracts or lease set specific insurance requirements, send those too.
We will ask a few questions about your operations, approach suitable insurers on your behalf and come back with options explained in plain language, including what is and isn’t covered. Once you choose, we arrange your cover and send your documents, then review it with you at every renewal so your insurance keeps pace with your business.
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