Freight Damage

Freight Damage

I suspect all of you have had to deal with freight damage. It is worse now than it has ever been in our industry. I want to share few things a few facts that you may not know or realize about these types of issues.All of our orders are shipped FOB (Freight On Board), when the freight line picks up an order at our plant and signs for it, from that point to actual delivery to the customer that material is the property of the freight line. After material is loaded on the truck any damage that occurs during transit to that material must be noted with the freight line at time of delivery and a freight claim must be filed.It is important that if you or your people think there might be freight damage they need to inspect all material before signing any paperwork and either refuse the shipment or note damage on the freight paperwork, have the driver acknowledge, sign and start a freight claim. If this is not done the chances of being reimbursed is very slim in most cases.Some freight company’s may accept claims within a few days of delivery but most will not. We try and always inform customers, if you receive your order damaged refuse the shipment if at all possible. If accepted but customer files a claim, the freight companies because of tariffs in place are only liable for approximately $0.99 per pound of the overall weight of the material and in many cases that will not cover full replacement cost. If you need additional assistance or would like more information about this issue or any of our other Blog’s please contact me at 800-668-1645 ext 174 or e-mail me at townsend@ccbpwin.com .

Kelly Townsend

National Sales Director

Columbia Commercial Building Products L.L.C.