Shipping goods across oceans is risky. Accidents, storms, or emergencies can force a ship’s captain to take drastic measures to save the vessel and crew. In such cases, all cargo owners may have to share the cost of losses, even if their own cargo is safe. This principle is known as General Average. https://www.marineinsurance.info/post/understanding-general-average-in-marine-insurance-what-every-importer-should-know