If a goods transport company issues a Damage / Shortage / Open certificate to its clients in case of a damage to the cargo caused due to accident, as required by the client to claim damages from their underwriters, stating "without prejudice and without admission of any liability, fault or negligence", does that certificate become binding on the transporter for compensating the client or their underwriter?
Is it necessary for the transporter to mention the value of the damage as claimed by the client as per their damage notice?
What is the legal defence for the transport company in this matter?