What to do when receiving your freight?
**DO NOT sign the Bill of Lading before checking your shipment for damages, concealed damages, or missing parts.**
When ordering equipment with our company one common problem can happen, the freight can become lost or damaged. The process for finding out who is responsible for the damaged freight could take months, and discovering whether freight had been stolen or lost on route can be difficult. As a shipper we will never be able prevent all instances of lost or damaged freight, but we can ensure that your equipment is replaced and provide solutions to prevent further instances.
Here are six important steps to follow when accepting your shipment:
1) Take a close look at delivered freight and inspect all details. Pay attention to every part or item; open crates if needed – there could be concealed damages. Determine what exactly is stolen, missing or damaged. Don’t be intimidated by the driver, who can claim he or she is in a hurry for the next route – you have a right to record all details if needed.
2) Write everything down and take photos, if possible. The more documentation the better, this will allow us to hold the freight company accountable. Make notes of damages and shortages on the delivery receipt and contact our customer service department as soon as possible. Don’t underestimate the importance of communication and cooperation.
3) If the freight is damaged beyond repair, refuse the shipment and contact our customer service department. Please make sure all packages are intact. If the equipment is needed to return back to our warehouse, we want to ensure the shipment is packaged properly to prevent any damages during transit.
4) Concealed damages must be reported to the freight company within three days of delivery. It is the customer’s responsibility to file for damaged claims against the freight company. Fill out the proper freight claim which will be provided to you by the freight company.
***The carrier must acknowledge a claim within 30 days of initial filling. Concealed damages and shortages should be reported to the carrier within 3 days of receipt of the load.
5) Keep all damaged freight for pick up or salvage.
6) Keep all necessary documents:
- A copy of the bill of lading
- A copy of the freight bill (paid)
- A copy of the invoice showing the amount paid for the goods
- A copy of the packing slip
- A standard claim form or a letter identifying the shipment and the claim amount
- Photos of the damage