This article describes how buyers can request a Certificate of Insurance or proof of carrier insurance for items being shipped to them.
This article contains the following sections:
Certificates of Insurance (COI)
Many buildings require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before they will allow a delivery, to protect itself and its residents from financial liability.
Request COI requirements as early as possible to avoid delays in confirming your delivery appointment.
How to request a COI:
- Send Chairish the building's COI requirements or a sample/template from your property manager.
- Include the building's contact information (property manager name, email, phone) and any special instructions (ex. additional insured wording, coverage limits, elevator reservation times).
What happens next:
- Once a carrier is assigned, the COI requirements will be forwarded to them. The carrier typically issues the COI directly to your building or to you for submission.
- Some buildings require review/approval before scheduling the final delivery day. Share any deadlines or reservation windows so the carrier can align scheduling.
Requesting Proof of Carrier Insurance
For orders sent via Seller-Managed shipping, some sellers arrange shipping directly with independent carriers or freight companies. It's reasonable to expect they use a properly insured carrier and disclose delivery arrangements up front.
What you can request:
- Written confirmation of the carrier's name and contact details.
- Proof of carrier insurance upon request for high-value or fragile items.
- A pickup date (once booked) and an estimated delivery window.
If the seller hasn't booked a carrier:
- Ask for a booking confirmation and pickup date once the item reaches its ready-to-ship date.
- If you've had no booking confirmation within 3-5 business days of the ready-to-ship date, contact us and we'll follow up with the seller.
If the seller does not provide an insured carrier or adequate delivery details upon request, let us know. We will intervene to ensure compliant arrangements or discuss alternatives, including cancellation options when appropriate.