Receiving your product can be made simple and easy if you follow a few basic steps.
 
¨      Stay in contact with you supplier or your logistics company to find out when your product was shipped and what carrier was used.  It is a good idea to ask the shipper to fax you a copy of the bill of lading after the shipment is picked up by the carrier.  This will also show you who the carrier was and will also give you the pro number (also called the tracking number).  You can then contact the terminal in your area to inquire about approximate delivery time.  You can also go to most carriers’ internet website and track the shipment.
¨      When the shipment is delivered, inspect it immediately for signs of damage.  Do this BEFORE you sign the delivery receipt.  In case of damage, make detailed notes on the delivery receipt before you sign it. If there is damage and an exception is not noted on the delivery receipt, it will make the claim process more difficult.
¨      Again, while the driver is there and before you sign the delivery receipt, compare the number of units received to the number listed on the delivery receipt.  If the number you received differs from the delivery receipt make a note stating how many you actually received before signing the receipt.
¨      Before signing, take a moment to review the delivery receipt for notations of any accessorial charges that may be listed that you did not receive i.e. inside delivery, liftgate service, etc.  If there is a service listed that you did not receive or request, note on the receipt that you did not receive this service.  If a service is listed that you did not receive and you do not make exception before signing the receipt, it is difficult to get the charge removed.
 
A signed delivery receipt with no exceptions is called a “clear delivery”.  That means that there was no shortages or visible damages.
 
You may notice how many times we say “before signing the delivery receipt”.  We can not over stress its importance and value should it be necessary to file a claim for damage, shortages, etc.  It may make the difference in your claim being paid or denied!
 
If you have any shipping questions, please contact Freight Management Systems at 865-922-7491 or barbsmith@tds.net.