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Shipping Tips
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Comparing Carriers |
Small Package Carriers
In most cases, shipments weighing 250 lbs. or less should be shipped using FedEx® Ground, UPS, or the U.S. Postal Service.
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Common Carriers
Less-than truckload (freight) or common carriers handle shipments weighing more than 250 lbs. When choosing a common carrier, never pay full rate and always ask for a discount. Discounted rates for several preferred carriers are available through PartnerShip.
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Packaging Your Shipments |
View tips to help ensure packages are received intact by customers and to significantly reduce the chances of shipment damages.
- Use new corrugated cardboard boxes—boxes lose strength every time they are shipped.
- Layer at least 2" of cushioning material at the top, sides, and bottom of package.
- Tape all seams and flaps with packing tape—do not use cellophane or masking tape as they are not strong enough.
- Address the package clearly.
- Always include the recipient's zip code.
- Never place labels over a seam or closure.
- Always include a complete return address.
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Recording and Checking Shipments for Shortages, Damages, and Concealed Damages |
- Verify all freight against the delivery receipt.
- If there are more pieces indicated on the delivery receipt than the number delivered, indicate the shortage on the delivery receipt.
- Have the driver write a precise description of the shortage on both your copy of the delivery receipt and the carrier's copy.
- Notify your vendor of the shortage.
- The following information is necessary to have a shipment traced or to file a claim. Claims must be filed within 9 months of the date of delivery.
- Freight bill number (freight shipments) or Tracking ID number (Small packages)
- Names and addresses of shipper and consignee
- Number of pieces in shipment
- Number of missing pieces
- Weight of shipment
- Delivery date
- Complete description of missing pieces
Damaged shipments should be handled in similar fashion to shortages as outlined above.
- If a package appears damaged, take the time to open the box with the driver present.
- Have the driver note the precise damage on the delivery receipt.
- Do not remove the damaged freight from the box.
- Contact the delivering carrier for an inspection.
- As with shortages, claims must be filed within 9 months of the date of delivery. The same information noted above will be necessary when filing a damage claim.
In some cases, boxes delivered may look like they are in good condition, but after opening them a damage or shortage may be concealed inside.
- Immediately notify your vendor about the concealed shortage or damage.
- Contact the carrier within 15 days from the delivery date. Waiting longer than 15 days may result in a claim not being honored.
- Always notify your vendor of short or damaged shipments.
- Have the driver precisely document all exceptions on the delivery receipt.
- Claims must be filed within 9 months of delivery date.
- Contact the carrier within 15 days of delivery date to report concealed shortages or damages.
- Never pay for merchandise not received.
- Always try to have your vendor file the freight claim.
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Filing a Freight Claim |
- Notify your vendor of loss or damage immediately and obtain a claim form from the delivering carrier.
- Verify your vendor shipped the carton or shipment with a copy of the bill of lading or pick-up record.
- On a damaged or partial short shipment you will need to provide proof of delivery (P.O.D.) i.e., a delivery receipt.
- A copy of the merchandise invoice for goods claimed.
- Inspection report if applicable. (If the shipment is damaged or partially short and the value of the shipment is less than $100.00, the carrier may elect not to inspect the shipment.)
- Pro number(s) if less-than-truckload shipment (freight), or tracking number for small package shipments.
- Never pay for merchandise you have not received.
- If you receive damaged merchandise, determine the dollar amount that accurately represents your loss. Do not file for lost profit or retail value.
- Try to reduce losses by selling damaged product at a discount, only after your claim is settled with the carrier.
- Keep package or shipment intact. Do not throw out any of the packaging or contents. This is important in case the goods need to be inspected.
- Carriers must be notified within 15 days of delivery for concealed loss or damage or your claim may not be honored.
- Bill of Lading
The most important document in transportation. It is the contract between shipper and the carrier containing the terms and agreements.
- Concealed Damage
Damage of the contents of a package or shipment bearing no indication of tampering.
- Concealed Loss
Loss of the contents of a package or shipment bearing no indication of tampering.
- Inspection
Official examination of shipment in order to determine loss or damage.
- Released-Value Class Rating
An agreement in writing (stated on the bill of lading) to place a limit on the amount that can be claimed if loss or damage occurs.
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