A Complete Guide to Shipping Carrier Claims

Shipping problems happen. Here's how to recover costs from carriers.

Types of Shipping Claims

Lost Packages

• •Package never delivered
• •Tracking shows delivered but customer didn't receive
• •Package lost in transit

Damaged Packages

• •Visible external damage
• •Contents damaged despite intact packaging
• •Water/weather damage

Delayed Packages

• •Guaranteed delivery missed
• •Significant delays affecting perishables
• •Express shipments delivered late

Carrier Claim Requirements

Documentation Needed

• •Tracking number
• •Shipping label/receipt
• •Proof of value (invoice)
• •Photos of damage
• •Customer statement

Time Limits

Each carrier has different windows:

• •USPS: 60 days from mailing
• •UPS: 60 days from delivery date
• •FedEx: 60 days (21 for international)
• •DHL: 30 days

Claim Limits

Check your shipping account for:

• •Maximum declared value
• •Insurance requirements
• •Excluded item categories

Improving Claim Success Rates

Better Packaging

• •Use appropriate box sizes
• •Adequate cushioning
• •Clear fragile labels
• •Weather-resistant materials

Photo Documentation

Take photos of:

• •Item before shipping
• •Packaging process
• •Shipping labels
• •Damaged packages (before opening)
• •Damaged contents

Proof of Value

Keep records of:

• •Original invoices
• •Product cost documentation
• •Retail pricing evidence

Automating Carrier Claims

Manual claims are time-consuming. Automation helps:

• •Identify claim-eligible shipments
• •Gather required documentation
• •Submit claims electronically
• •Track claim status
• •Report on recovery

Negotiating Carrier Contracts

High-volume shippers can negotiate:

• •Better claim processes
• •Higher liability limits
• •Faster claim processing
• •Dedicated claim contacts

Prevention vs. Recovery

Focus on preventing shipping issues:

• •Proper packaging training
• •Quality inspection before ship
• •Address verification
• •Carrier performance monitoring

Prevention is always cheaper than recovery.