Risks in Freight Transport in Chile: The 5 Challenges Companies Must Anticipate by 2026

By 2026, companies that rely on freight transportation will be operating in an increasingly complex logistics environment. The growth of trade, supply chain disruptions, a rise in thefts along the route, and higher expectations from customers and operators have made risk management a priority for logistics, operations, and procurement departments. 

In this context, it is no longer enough simply to transport goods from one place to another. Companies must also anticipate incidents that could disrupt business continuity, result in financial losses, or directly affect contract fulfillment and delivery times. 

From cargo damage to security issues or insufficient coverage, understanding the main risks associated with freight transport in Chile is key to making more informed decisions and better protecting each logistics operation. 

In 2025, Chilean ports handled more than 115 million tons of cargo, marking a 3.57% increase over the previous year, according to data from the National Customs Service. 

This increased momentum in Chile’s foreign trade and logistics sector is occurring against a backdrop of heightened security challenges. Industry reports cited by specialized media estimate that nearly 300 trucks stolen per year in the country. 

In addition to this, there are other factors that are currently having a direct impact on logistics operations: 

• Traffic congestion on roads and at ports  
• Delays in the supply chain  
• Operational disruptions  
• Damage to goods during transport  
• Increasing demands for traceability and compliance  

In this scenario, anticipating risks is no longer just an operational matter: it is a strategic necessity to prevent financial losses and ensure the continuity of the supply chain. 

The growth of the logistics industry, coupled with stricter operational and safety requirements, has increased companies' exposure to various risks during the transport of goods. 

Although each industry faces different challenges depending on the type of cargo, the routes used, or the level of logistical exposure, there are five risks that currently account for much of the concern among companies, logistics operators, and procurement departments in Chile. 

1. Cargo theft and crimes committed along the route

One of the main challenges facing the logistics sector remains the rise in thefts of trucks and cargo during transport. 

Incidents can occur: 

• On roads  
• During operational arrests  
• At distribution centers  
• During loading and unloading  
• High-value cargo, technology, food, industrial supplies, and pharmaceuticals are typically the most vulnerable. 

In addition to the financial cost of the loss, these events result in: 

• Delivery delays  
• Breaches of contract  
• Additional operating costs  
• Reputational damage with regard to customers  

For this reason, many companies are strengthening their logistics protocols and reviewing their Freight Insurance coverage.

2. Damage to goods during transport

Not all risks are related to criminal activity. A significant portion of claims result from accidental damage during transport. 

Among the most common causes are: 

• Improper handling of cargo  
• Packaging issues  
• Vibrations or movements during the ride  
• Traffic accidents  
• Changes in temperature or humidity  

Such damage can seriously disrupt logistics operations, especially in sensitive industries such as: 

• Food  
• Retail  
• Pharmaceutical  
• Technology  
• Industrial machinery  

Many companies only realize after an incident that they don't have sufficient coverage or that there are significant exclusions in their policies. 

3. Logistical disruptions and operational delays

Today's supply chains rely on multiple coordinated actors and processes. A delay at any one stage can affect the entire operation. 

In Chile, some factors that cause frequent disruptions include: 

• Traffic congestion on national highways and at ports  
• Climate issues  
• Work stoppages or operational disruptions  
• Traffic restrictions  
• Mechanical failures or accidents  

Although these incidents do not always result in direct loss of merchandise, they can lead to: 

• Penalties for noncompliance  
• Additional storage costs  
• Loss of customers  
• Stockouts  

That is why many companies today view transportation and insurance as part of a comprehensive business continuity and logistics management strategy.

4. Lack of clarity regarding responsibilities and operational exposure

When an incident occurs during the transport of cargo, one of the most frequently asked questions is: Who is liable for the damage or loss? 

Depending on the contract and the type of logistics operation, responsibility may lie with: 

• The carrier  
• The company that owns the cargo  
• The logistics operator  
• Companies involved in storage or distribution 

A lack of clarity in contracts, documentation, or operational scope often leads to disputes, claims, and delays in the settlement of claims. 

In many cases, companies only realize after an incident that they had assumed responsibilities that were not properly addressed or covered. 

That is why, in addition to protecting the goods being transported, many organizations are strengthening their coverage strategies through Civil Liability Insurance for Logistics Operators, especially in operations involving multiple parties within the logistics chain. 

Having clear terms and conditions, a proper risk assessment, and coverage tailored to the type of transaction is key to minimizing risks and operating with greater security.

5. Insufficient or improperly purchased coverage

One of the most common mistakes is assuming that any insurance policy covers all the risks associated with freight transport. 

In practice, many policies include: 

• Coverage Limits  
• Specific exclusions  
• Restrictions by cargo type  
• Special Conditions of Carriage  

This can lead to significant discrepancies between the expected coverage and the actual protection provided in the event of a claim. 

For this reason, more and more companies are seeking expert advice to review: 

• Type of merchandise  
• Frequency of shipments  
• Routes used  
• Risk exposure  
• Actual logistics coverage needs  

If you need to assess the scope of your policy and the risks your cargo faces during transport, seeking expert advice can help you identify gaps in coverage and improve the protection of your logistics operations. 

Contact a Hanseatica specialist to assess the most appropriate coverage based on the type of goods, the logistics operation, and the risks associated with your business. 

Given the increasingly complex logistical landscape facing companies that manage supply chains and freight transportation in Chile, adopting a proactive approach is essential. 

Some recommended measures include: 

• Regularly assess logistics risks  
• Review contracts and responsibilities  
• Improve safety and traceability protocols  
• Check your current coverage  
• Have insurance coverage that matches the type of operation  
• Strengthen logistics chain planning  

Risk prevention and proper risk management can make the difference between a controlled contingency and a significant loss for the operation. 

Freight transport will continue to be a critical component for companies across multiple industries in Chile. Given the increased logistical risks and operational demands, planning ahead is no longer optional. 

Understanding the main risks associated with transportation, reviewing the available coverage options, and having an appropriate protection strategy in place can help reduce uncertainty, minimize losses, and operate with greater confidence. 

In this scenario, having adequate coverage is no longer just a preventive measure: it is a key tool for safeguarding business continuity and mitigating the financial impact of incidents during freight transport. 

At Hanseatica, we support companies across various industries with specialized solutions for logistics operations and international trade, helping to mitigate risks associated with transportation, warehousing, and operational liability. 

Among the main solutions are: 

• Freight Insurance: protection against theft, damage, loss, and various risks that may affect the cargo during domestic or international transport.  
• Container Insurance: Coverage designed to protect containers against damage, loss, or operational contingencies that may affect their use and logistical continuity.  
• Liability Insurance for Logistics Operators: designed for companies involved in the logistics chain that need coverage for damage to third parties, operational errors, or liabilities arising from their business activities.  

These solutions enable companies to operate with greater predictability, strengthen their risk management, and better respond to contingencies that may affect the supply chain. 

If you need to review your policy coverage and the risks your cargo faces during transport, contact a Hanseatica specialist to assess the most appropriate coverage based on your logistics operations, the type of goods being transported, and the specific risks in your supply chain.