Claim Materials refer to the supporting documents, evidence, or physical samples required to be submitted when the buyer or seller files a claim against the other party in international trade due to issues such as quality, quantity, packaging, or delivery time. Common materials include: claim letter, inspection report (e.g., SGS), bill of lading, invoice, packing list, photos, videos, third-party test certificates, etc. Usage scenarios are mostly when problems are found after the goods arrive at the port, and the buyer formally files a claim with the seller within the claim period stipulated in the contract. Notes: First, claim materials must be authentic, complete, and timely, and must comply with contract or letter of credit requirements; second, different types of claims (e.g., quality claim, shortage claim) require different materials; third, note the difference from 'Claim Settlement Materials,' which are documents required by the insurance company or responsible party when handling a claim. Compared with 'dispute resolution materials,' claim materials focus more on proving loss and breach of contract. Foreign trade practitioners should agree on a claim materials checklist in advance to avoid claim failure due to incomplete materials.
📝 Examples
1. After receiving the goods, the buyer found that 30% of the products were defective, immediately commissioned SGS to issue an inspection report, and submitted it together with the claim letter, packing list photos, and other claim materials to the seller, demanding compensation for losses. (Note: Quality claim scenario, emphasizing the third-party inspection report as the core material.)
2. Because the carrier short-landed 5 boxes of goods, when the seller claimed against the insurance company, it was required to provide original bill of lading, commercial invoice, short-landing report, destination port tally sheet, and other claim materials. (Note: Shortage claim scenario, involving the document checklist required for insurance claims.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
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