What are the rules for maritime transport claims under Dutch law?

Dutch term: Zeevervoerclaims | Legal basis: Book 8 BW + Hague-Visby Rules

Maritime transport claims under Dutch law are governed by Book 8 of the Dutch Civil Code and, for international carriage under a bill of lading, by the Hague-Visby Rules (incorporated into Dutch law). The carrier is liable for loss of or damage to goods during the period from loading to discharge, unless it proves one of the excepted perils (such as errors in navigation, fire, inherent defect of the goods, or act of God).

Liability under the Hague-Visby Rules is limited to 666.67 SDR per package or unit, or 2 SDR per kilogram of gross weight, whichever is higher. The limitation period is one year from the date of delivery (or from the date the goods should have been delivered). Claims must be notified promptly: for apparent damage, at the time of delivery; for non-apparent damage, within three days. The Netherlands, with the Port of Rotterdam as Europe's largest port, is one of the principal jurisdictions for maritime transport disputes.

Why it matters for international businesses

For importers and exporters shipping goods through the Port of Rotterdam, understanding the carrier's limited liability, the excepted perils, and the short notification and limitation periods is essential for protecting recovery rights.