How Insurance Offers Financial Protection When Exporting Marine Parts & Accessories

Global demand for marine manufacturing parts and accessories is creating new opportunities for U.S. exporters, particularly in engines, electronics, and safety equipment. While these markets open valuable revenue streams, they also expose manufacturers to risks such as cargo damage, customs delays, and international payment disputes. For insurance agents, connecting clients with coverage tailored to global trade is essential to safeguarding shipments and revenue.

The Growth of Marine Exports

Overseas demand for U.S.-made components continues to rise as buyers seek quality, innovation, and reliable performance. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, marine engine exports alone totaled $568.2 million last year, with outboards making up more than 80% of that value. Growth is also strong in accessories such as electronics and safety gear, driven by expanding recreational boating markets in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

For insurance agents, this momentum highlights an opportunity to add value. Many manufacturers eager to capture global sales may overlook the unique exposures tied to cross-border trade. By anticipating these risks and recommending appropriate coverage, agents can strengthen client portfolios while helping manufacturers remain competitive in international markets.

Risks in Exporting Marine Manufacturing Parts and Accessories

Exporting opens valuable markets for U.S. manufacturers, but it also brings exposures that can disrupt operations and profitability. Transit risks like cargo loss or damage, along with financial risks such as non-payment or political actions, are part of the international trade landscape. While not all of these risks are insurable, they underscore the need for a structured risk strategy.

Merrimac Marine helps manufacturers protect the foundation of their export business. Products and completed operations liability addresses claims tied to faulty components once sold abroad. Business income coverage stabilizes revenue if production is interrupted, while property and equipment coverages keep facilities and tools protected.

For insurance agents, aligning these protections with a manufacturer’s global ambitions builds credibility and positions them as proactive advisors in a competitive market.

Helping Clients Expand With Confidence

Exporting marine parts and accessories offers major growth potential, but it also introduces financial risks that can undermine success. Agents who connect clients with specialized solutions position themselves as trusted advisors who enable both resilience and expansion.

Merrimac Marine designs programs specifically for marine manufacturers, backed by underwriting expertise that reflects the technical and financial challenges of building and distributing equipment worldwide.

For agents, this specialization is a clear differentiator. Rather than relying on generic export policies, they can deliver Merrimac’s targeted solutions and strengthen their role as strategic partners in protecting clients’ long-term growth.

Partner with Merrimac to help your clients pursue international opportunities with the confidence that their operations, assets, and reputation are protected.

FAQs About Exporting Marine Manufacturing Parts and Accessories

What insurance coverage is most important for exporters?

For marine parts and accessories manufacturers, liability coverage, products and completed operations liability, and business income protection are essential. These coverages address the operational risks behind exporting, while cargo or credit insurance may be placed separately to manage international exposures.

Do international shipments increase liability risks?

Yes. Manufacturers face added exposure if exported parts are damaged in transit, delayed, or found defective once delivered overseas. Products liability and completed operations coverage are critical to managing these risks.

How can agents help clients reduce risks in exporting?

Agents can review a client’s operation, ensure liability and property protections are aligned with export activity, and educate clients on compliance and documentation to avoid uninsured losses.

Why Merrimac Marine instead of standard commercial export coverage?

Merrimac’s programs are designed with marine industry expertise. Our coverages go beyond generic policies by addressing the unique exposures of marine manufacturers, from facilities and equipment to products liability and business income.

About Merrimac Marine Insurance

At Merrimac Marine, we are dedicated to providing insurance for the marine industry to protect your clients’ businesses and assets. For more information about our products and programs, contact our specialists today at (800) 681-1998.