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5 tips for reducing freight damage and loss claims

| Jul 20, 2020 | Transportation Law |

When it comes to the transportation of goods, some amount of freight damage and loss is to be expected. No one can plan for every possible contingency. However, both shippers and sellers can take the following steps to help reduce freight damage and loss claims.

1. Package items to prevent damaging other items

It’s not always wise to throw items into a box with some packaging material and call it a day. This is especially true if you’re transporting different types of items. For example, liquids can leak and damage boxes containing dry goods. Take the time to package each type of item appropriately. Doing so can help limit the damage to an item’s respective container.

2. Consider how well impact protection is likely to work

Bubble wrap can be invaluable when it comes to fragile objects, but you wouldn’t want to simply cover an item in bubble wrap and throw it on a truck. An extra layer of protection, such as putting a bubble wrapped item in a box, can mean the difference between a broken object and one that’s intact. It’s also important to consider size. Placing a bubble wrapped item in a box that is 10 times the size of the item will do little in terms of extra protection.

3. Stack items to help ensure even weight distribution

Try to stack packages on a pallet as close together as possible. Gaps and empty pockets can spell disaster. Adding a sheet of cardboard every few layers can help ensure a more equal distribution of weight.

4. Label packages accordingly

The global economy means manufacturers may have their hands in all types of businesses. Discerning the contents of a package based on brand name alone is all but impossible. Labeling items as “fragile” or “heavy” can help ensure proper handling and stacking.

5. Ensure packaging is free of damage

If a box arrives at its final destination damaged, the recipient is going to assume it was the carrier’s fault. But what if the box was damaged before it was ever shipped? Ensuring boxes are free of water damage, cut marks, or holes can help protect both shippers and carriers from damage claims.

These steps can help cut down on freight loss and damage. However, if issues still arise, you may wish to explore your legal options by speaking with a skilled professional.