When ordering large automotive parts like hoods, body kits, bumpers, trunks, wings, and similar items, these are often shipped via LTL (Less Than Truckload) services. LTL shipments are delivered by trucking companies that consolidate freight from multiple customers. These shipments are cost-effective for large but not full-truckload items.
Inspection Process: What to Do When Your Shipment Arrives
- Scheduled Delivery: The freight carrier will schedule a delivery window with you.
- Inspect Before Signing: It’s crucial to inspect the item thoroughly for any damage before signing the Bill of Lading. Don’t let an impatient driver rush you.
- Document Any Damage: If you discover any damage, take several clear photos of the affected areas.
- Do Not Sign - Mark as Damaged: On the Bill of Lading, do not sign. Instead, write "Damaged" and refuse delivery.
- Contact Us Immediately: As soon as you refuse the delivery, contact us to initiate the claim process.
The Damage Claim Process
Once you’ve reported the damage:
- We File a Claim: We will file a damage claim with the shipping carrier on your behalf.
- Claim Settlement: As long as the damage was noted at the time of delivery, the claim will be processed without issues. The damaged part will be replaced.
- Timeline: It typically takes 5-7 business days for the claim to be settled and the replacement part to be shipped to you.
What If I Didn’t Notice the Damage Until Later?
Unfortunately, not noticing the damage immediately complicates the process and often leads to unsatisfactory outcomes:
- Filing a Late Claim: We will attempt to file a claim, but if the carrier finds that the Bill of Lading was signed with no damage reported, our options are limited.
- Limited Recourse: We’ll do our best to assist you, but replacing the part at our cost isn’t feasible in these situations.