Your Partner Cargo Surveying Experts

When incidents or cargo damages do occur, Observater is your trusted partner for claims handling and damage investigations in Tanzania. We understand how critical it is to respond quickly and professionally to protect your interests when cargo is damaged or lost.

Our dedicated claims team in Tanzania, comprising seasoned surveyors with engineering, logistics and insurance backgrounds, provides fast, objective damage surveys in Benin, Cotonou port, across Africa and globally. We thoroughly investigate the nature, cause, and extent of damage, be it from rough handling, weather exposure, collision, fire, theft, or other perils. We do both cargo damage surveys and marine assets’ damage investigations.

Within hours of notification, we mobilize to the incident site to examine the cargo or vessel; a preliminary findings report is typically shared with the client the same day. We document all evidence, take measurements and samples, and interview relevant parties to reconstruct the chain of events leading to the loss. Our surveyors then compile a comprehensive report (often delivered within 48 hours of survey completion) detailing the cause of damage, responsibility, and estimated loss quantum.

These unbiased, crystal-clear reports are formatted to facilitate smooth claims processing and settlements.
Observater also assists clients in the claims management process: we advise cargo owners or consignees on promptly notifying insurers and carriers, we issue Letters of Protest to liable parties on our clients’ behalf, and we liaise with P&I clubs, underwriters, and lawyers to support recovery actions.

Our expertise extends to various types of claims, including carrier’s liability and third-party liability cases, where we investigate and opine on where fault lies (for example, stevedore negligence or charterer’s liability for vessel damage).

In cases of cargo theft or fraud, our forensic investigators delve into shipping documents and supply chain records to uncover illicit schemes – working closely with law enforcement and leveraging our global network to trace and recover stolen goods when possible.

Throughout the claims handling journey, Observater’s priority is to limit your loss and expedite resolution: we coordinate salvage sales of damaged cargo to recover residual value, recommend cost-effective repair or reconditioning options, and support our clients in negotiations with insurers or culpable parties.

By entrusting us with claims and damage surveys, insurers, traders, and transporters gain an impartial expert who will rigorously defend their position and help achieve fair outcomes.

Our Commitment

At Observater, we are committed to protecting the commercial interests of our clients through accurate, timely, and independent reporting. Our global reach, combined with deep local knowledge in high-traffic port regions, enables us to respond swiftly and deliver consistent service quality. With a focus on accountability, transparency, and technical rigor, Observater is the partner of choice for all cargo discharge and soft commodity inspection needs in Benin.