Make sure you have the proper maritime legal documents for insuring your cargo

It's important if you ship cargo that you have the proper forms to cover yourself in case of loss.

I recommend: The American Institute of Marine Underwriters, which is a trade association representing the marine insurance industry, has an extensive collection of cargo insurance forms on its site. Entreprenuer.com also has forms covering cargo from shipping to delivery, including bill of lading and order and acceptance notices.

Find the right admiralty judicial form for handling other cargo issues

Customs, declarations of value and other shipping issues are covered by admiralty legal documents.

I recommend: Transmanage Worldwide has admiralty legal forms that cover all aspects of the shipping process, from customs declarations to dangerous goods importation. Air Parcel Express has a variety of admiralty legal documents available throughout their website.

Protect yourself from personal injury at sea claims with the proper maritime legal documents

If you employ sailors, or carry passengers across water, you may need access to personal injury forms.

I recommend: The American Club, a mutual protection and indemnity club which provides cover to ship owners and charters for personal injury at sea, has a great collection of medical forms and other standard personal injury forms on its site. Shipowners Club, another P & I group, also has forms and suggested clauses to use, available in their online library.