When is a shipper likely to be held responsible for cargo damage during transport?

A shipper is likely to be held responsible for cargo damage during transport when the packaging is deemed inadequate. Proper packaging is crucial for the safe transportation of goods, as it protects cargo from physical damage and environmental factors that can arise during transit. If the packaging fails to provide sufficient protection, the shipper can be held liable for any resulting damage. Inadequate packaging could be due to using substandard materials, improper securing of items, or failing to account for the nature of the cargo being shipped.

Other scenarios, such as non-compliant packaging meeting only minimum standards, improperly labeled cargo, or a shipment containing perishables, can contribute to issues, but they do not inherently place responsibility for damage solely on the shipper in the same clear way. For instance, while labeling is important for handling and safe transport, improperly labeled cargo may not directly result in damage unless it leads to mishandling. Similarly, perishables need careful handling but are not the sole factor determining responsibility for damage caused during transport.