The 60-second version
Bunker liability insurance covers fuel supply negligence and pollution — returning NRIs entering bunker trading need cover alongside P&I and port liability policies.
Bind bunker liability before first barge delivery — pollution extension is non-negotiable at Indian ports
Bunker liability insurance responds when fuel spill, contamination, or short delivery causes vessel off-hire or environmental claim.
Returning NRIs supplying bunkers at Mumbai, Kandla, or Vizag need pollution liability alongside quality dispute cover.
Agency lane: ship agency guide if you also act as port agent.
Bunker stack
| Policy | Covers | Does not cover |
|---|---|---|
| Bunker liability | Spill + short delivery | Hull damage |
| Pollution extension | Clean-up cost | Criminal fine |
| P&I | Shipowner injury | Supplier negligence |
| Cargo | Non-fuel goods | Fuel quality |
Purchase flow
Supply scope
Barge vs truck.
Sum insured
Per delivery + agg.
Pollution ext.
Mandatory sub-limit.
Bind policy
Before first delivery.
Quality SOP
BDN + sampling.
Stack
Bunker kit
- DGS licence.
- BDN template.
- Policy schedule.
- Spill response plan.
- Claim hotline.
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MARPOL
Pollution cover should align with MARPOL Annex I limits — verify sub-limit with harbour master.
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0 of 4 checked
vs P&I?
P&I covers shipowner pollution; bunker liability covers supplier delivery negligence.
Quality dispute?
Separate from spill — verify off-spec fuel sub-limit.
GST?
18% GST on marine insurance premium.
Claim?
Notify within 24h of spill — preserve BDN and lab sample chain.
Truck vs barge?
Declare delivery mode — truck bunkering needs higher PL sub-limit.
Off-hire?
Some policies cover vessel off-hire from contaminated fuel — verify extension.
You've done the research. Now get the plan.
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