Average Adjuster

An Average Adjuster is a professional who specializes in handling general average adjustments in marine insurance. When a ship encounters a common peril during a voyage and reasonable measures are intentionally taken for the common safety, resulting in special sacrifices or expenses, a general average is constituted. The average adjuster is responsible for determining whether a general average exists, calculating the contribution amounts for each party, and preparing the adjustment statement in accordance with the York-Antwerp Rules or relevant contract terms. Usage scenarios include: after a general average occurs, the shipowner declares general average and appoints an average adjuster; cargo owners must provide general average security before taking delivery; insurance companies refer to the adjustment report when settling claims. Notes: The average adjuster is usually appointed by the shipowner, but the adjustment results must be impartial; cargo owners should pay attention to the adjuster's qualifications and applicable rules; the adjustment process may take a long time, affecting cargo delivery and cash flow. Unlike ordinary insurance loss adjusters, average adjusters specialize in general average, while loss adjusters focus on loss inspection and assessment. The difference lies in: average adjusters handle contribution issues, while loss adjusters handle compensation issues.