Please review the following processes to protect your company from freight claim liability. A signature on a BOL/Delivery Receipt constitutes the acceptance of the merchandise “as is” and in good order. Many claims are denied due to NO NOTATION on the BOL by the receiver. Please ensure that whoever receives, inspects, and signs for delivery fully understands this procedure.
1. Receiving Freight
- It is the responsibility of the receiver to fully examine and note all shortages and damages on the BOL for truckload shipments and the delivery receipt for LTL (FedEx Freight/ UPS Freight) shipments. Failure to do so may result in the DENIAL of your freight claim. The driver in most cases cannot leave until the delivery documents are signed.
- The receiver should open all boxes and containers. If there is suspicion of damage (concealed or otherwise, it must be noted on the delivery document). The burden of proof then belongs to the receiver to provide sufficient evidence to support the carrier’s negligence. Please ensure that there is adequate staffing to unload your freight. Failure to unload in a timely fashion may result in detention charges.
- When a box/container is visibly damaged, DO NOT REFUSE THE PRODUCT. Failure to keep product will result in additional freight costs, in which the receiver will be liable for. Moving possibly damaged freight causes discrepancies in the freight claim. Please take photos immediately of the damaged box before opening and contact Best Western Sales at 800-528-3601, option 1.
2. OS&D:
Should there be any of the following: Overage, Shortage, Damage/Concealed Damage, the following steps should be taken:
- Immediately document delivery receipts and photograph the packaging and damage. Damages MUST BE REPORTED within the following time frame. Failure to do so may result in the denial of your claim:
- Concealed Damaged: 24 hours to 48 from the time of delivery
- Damage: 5 days with damage noted on the delivery receipt/BOL
- Shortage: 5 days of delivery for both LTL and Full Truckload noted on delivery receipt
- Call Best Western Sales Service at 800-528-3601, option 1 ASAP
- Keep a copy of the noted delivery receipt. If signing electronically, request a paper copy.