Nick et al,
Photos are an excellent idea. Another thing that helps any subsequent claim is to insist that the company representative at the drop off point inspect and accept the packaging. The only claim I ever had to file with one of the courier services was saved by this.
The claim was initially denied using the standard "insufficient packing" canard. I told the carrier that not only was it in the manufacturer's original packing, but that the parcel was opened, inspected and accepted by their employee at the local terminal. The employee - bless her - corroborated my statement and the claim was paid. However, I fear the "reward" that employee received for her honesty.
Phil Sieg Knoxville, Tennessee
Nick Zatezalo wrote:
>Even though there are federal rules and guide lines governing
>the shipping industry; these rules are often stretched to the extreme
>and rarely enforced. The shipper must be prepared to take the gloves
>off and do battle when an incident occurs.
>
>I have always taken detailed photos of the inside and outside of a carton
>containing valuable cargo. Fortunately I have never needed to use this
>ammunition, but it is nice to know one has a before reference of the item,
>if needed.
>
>The number of damaged/lost shipments is very small but it never hurts to
>be prepared.
>
>Nick Zatezalo
>Atlanta,Ga