Columbia University schools and departments often purchase valuable equipment that must be shipped to them by the manufacturer/distributor. Generally, it is the responsibility of the manufacturer and/or distributor to insure newly purchased equipment during transit, but you should always verify this prior to shipment.
If the manufacturer/distributor is not insuring the shipment or the insurance cost is high and is being passed on to the school/department, the University's insurance program can be used to insure the shipment.
Many schools and departments also ship owned or leased equipment to locations throughout the world for research and other purposes. It is the responsibility of the school/department to insure owned or leased equipment during transit. Most freight companies offer transit insurance but the cost can be relatively expensive when compared to the university's program.
Equipment in transit between locations is not covered for loss or damage under Columbia University's insurance program unless the shipment is reported and accepted for coverage.