LTL FREIGHT CLAIMS: WHAT SHIPPERS NEED TO KNOW

A Practical Guide to Freight Damage, Shortages & Loss

Even with careful handling, freight can occasionally be damaged, lost, or arrive with missing pieces.

When that happens, good documentation and quick action can make the claims process much easier.

At UCFS, our goal is to help customers understand what to look for when freight arrives and what information should be collected if there is a problem.

BEFORE YOU SIGN THE DELIVERY RECEIPT

Inspect your shipment before accepting delivery whenever reasonably possible.

Compare the number of pallets, cartons, or pieces received with the shipping documents.

Look for:

• Crushed or damaged cartons
• Torn or missing shrink wrap
• Broken pallets
• Punctures or visible impact damage
• Water damage
• Missing cartons or pieces
• Other visible signs of damage

If you see a problem, describe the damage or shortage clearly on the delivery receipt before signing.

Whenever possible, take photographs of the freight and packaging before the shipment is moved or unpacked.

4 COMMON TYPES OF FREIGHT CLAIMS

1. VISIBLE DAMAGE

The freight arrives, but damage is clearly visible at the time of delivery.

Note the specific damage on the delivery receipt and photograph the shipment, packaging, and damaged areas whenever possible.

2. SHORTAGE

Part of the shipment is missing.

Compare the number of pallets, cartons, or pieces received against the Bill of Lading (BOL) and delivery documents.

Clearly note any shortage on the delivery receipt.

3. LOSS

The entire shipment, pallet, carton, or other freight does not reach its destination.

Keep your Bill of Lading, tracking information, commercial invoice, and other shipment documentation available for the claim process.

4. CONCEALED DAMAGE

30 available:

✓ Bill of Lading (BOL)
✓ Delivery Receipt / Proof of Delivery (POD)
✓ Commercial invoice showing the value of the goods
✓ Photographs of the damaged freight
✓ Photographs of the packaging
✓ Repair or replacement information, when applicable
✓ Description of what was damaged, lost, or missing
✓ UCFS shipment or tracking number

Do not discard damaged freight or its packaging until the claim has been reviewed or you have been instructed that it is no longer needed.

DON'T WAIT TO REPORT A PROBLEM

Report freight loss, shortage, or damage as soon as possible.

Certain freight claims may be subject to specific filing deadlines established by the applicable Bill of Lading, carrier rules, tariffs, contracts, or law.

Prompt reporting and complete documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays in processing your claim.

PROTECT YOUR FREIGHT BEFORE IT SHIPS

The best freight claim is the one you never have to file.

Proper preparation can help reduce freight damage.

Before shipping:

✓ Use appropriate packaging
✓ Secure freight properly to the pallet
✓ Use sufficient stretch wrap or banding
✓ Protect corners and vulnerable areas
✓ Clearly label every pallet or piece
✓ Verify pallet and piece counts
✓ Make sure the Bill of Lading is accurate

Proper packaging and accurate shipment documentation help protect your freight throughout the transportation process.

NEED HELP WITH A UCFS SHIPMENT?

WE'RE HERE TO HELP.

If your UCFS shipment arrives damaged, short, or has another delivery issue, contact our team as soon as possible.

Please have your UCFS shipment number and supporting documentation available.

START A CLAIM

CONTACT UCFS

TRACK YOUR SHIPMENT

800-717-5091
support@ucfsonline.com

UCFS — DELIVERING THE FUTURE

California • Nevada • Arizona

LTL • Truckload • Dedicated • Parcel • Warehousing • 3PL

This information is provided as general guidance only. Claim requirements, filing deadlines, liability limitations, and other terms may vary depending on the shipment and applicable transportation agreement. This information does not constitute legal advice.

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