Always inspect the product you are receiving prior to signing the delivery receipt.

Remember that failure to note obvious damage at the time of delivery will guarantee a declination by the carrier of any claim arising from that damage.

Inspect each piece or pallet looking for evidence of damage or pilferage to the product. Crushed, torn, punctured, broken, wet, or rattling packages on pallets are an indication that interior damage may exist.

The delivery receipt, which should be co-signed by the driver, should contain factual and precise notations concerning exceptions. If a box is broken, say so. Don’t merely say “damaged.” Use descriptive terms that report THE FACTS! For example, if a leaky drum is “defective,” as distinguished from being “damaged by rough handling,” take an exception by writing “defective drum, leaking at bottom rim,” or “cover loose,” drums dented, cracked and leaking on side,” etc.

Always state the location of the damage, and describe in detail the nature and extent of damage. Identify the precise part or piece damaged and indicate its location in relation to other parts of the shipment (last row, right side, top layer wet, etc.)

Examples of types of damage incurred in transit are:

• On metal products, the inspection report should have check boxes for reporting rust, dents, moisture, bent corners, torn protective wrapping, etc.
• On refrigerated perishables, the report should have check boxes for recording both the temperature and condition of product in several portions of the vehicle. The condition of the refrigeration devices should also be recorded. In addition, the report should have a space for quality control personnel to report their findings.

• CONCEALED DAMAGE
  “Concealed damage” is when a shipment is delivered in apparent good order. The delivery record reports no damage at the time of delivery, and the consignee subsequently discovers damage. Sound receiving and inspection practices will substantially reduce the possibility of a concealed damage claim. When they do occur, however, they present the problem of establishing that the carrier is liable for the damage to the product and ultimately, getting a motor carrier to pay a cargo claim will be difficult. Make a concerted effort to open ALL the shipments you receive as soon as possible. All concealed damages must be reported to the carrier within 5 days of delivery. Remember, the presumption is that you caused the damage if it is not reported to the carrier within this time frame. When damage is discovered, stop unpacking the shipment and call the carrier immediately. Giving the carrier an opportunity to see the damaged goods exactly as you have discovered them in the original container and packaging can greatly improve your chances of recovery. Take pictures of the damage and the related materials and fax it to the carrier immediately. Confirm your request for an inspection in writing! A telephone call is fast and simple, but provides no record of notification. Therefore, confirm the request in writing.
• UNLOADING TRUCKS
  First, verify that the shipment being delivered is yours by reviewing the bill of lading or delivery receipt and by inspecting the packages. Note the number of packages and the weight of the product. Visually inspect the shipment before unloading! Photographs should always be taken at the first sign of visible damage before proceeding to receive the delivery. Leave all straps, wood, or wrappings intact and try not to move any damaged item unless absolutely necessary. This is the best way to avoid a dispute over who is responsible for the damage that has been incurred to a particular shipment. After inspecting the shipment with the driver and noting the condition of the load on the delivery receipt, unload the items and visually inspect all sides of the vehicle. Look for defects in the vehicle performing the delivery, such as holes in the ceiling, walls, or floor, cracked door seals, broken floor boards, wet sports or stains, contamination in cracks, patch jobs, flat tires, etc. and make sure to take pictures and to note your findings on the delivery receipt.