Shipment Damage During International Removals: Overcoming Your Worst Nightmare
Let us say that you have packed your things and contracted a company that specializes in international removals to transport your items to your new residence in some other country. While your things are in transit, you travel to your new home to prepare it for the arrival of your shipment.
But when your shipment arrives, you notice that the packaging material is severely damaged. Oh no! Are your belongings inside damaged? If they are, what kind of damage have they sustained? Here are a few tips to follow in case this happens.
1. Before signing off the freight receipt, ensure that you check the packaging. If possible, open the box to check the shipment inside for nicks, scuffs, scratches, and abrasions. Take note that large and heavy items are more prone to damage than smaller ones.
2. See if there are missing parts. This is particularly important when the shipped item is modular and you have taking it apart prior to vehicle shipping.
3. In a very few cases, the item may malfunction due to a manufacturer's defect which was "activated" during the shipment. If so, you can ask the international removal company for assistance. Many companies have connections to product manufacturers and may help find a solution to your problem.
4. If your package shows signs of damage, write "package damaged" on the freight receipt when you sign it off. Keep the copy of the receipt with you; this would be required in case you need to file a damage claim. It is also recommended to take photos of the damage. These could be used as proof.
5. Do not put the packaging material in the trash. Keep it because it may be used to investigate the claim.
6. If the package shows considerable damage, you can refuse to accept the shipment. Write "refused due to damage" on the freight receipt and get in touch with your mover. Use the freight receipt to file a damage claim from the international mover. Take photos of the damaged packaging material; these could be used as proof when you lay claim.
If you require a professional shipper for international removals, get in touch with Atlantis Removals.
