What should you do if your package is delivered damaged?

(WTAJ) — Whether you’re ordering a birthday gift, something for your home, or a mechanical part there is a big chance you’re going to be placing an online order. But what should you do if your package comes damaged?

In 2023, parcels being shipped went up by 0.5%, and 27.1 billion parcel s were shipped. The busiest time of year for shipping companies, as it’s no surprise to you, is the holiday season. Most specifically between Thanksgiving and Christmas . But imagine the disappointment when you open up your front door to find your package has been damaged in transport!

Don’t open that package just yet! Make sure you do a few things before you find out if what you ordered was actually damaged.

Break out your cell phone

The first thing you want to do is take a photo and or a video of the package in the state it arrives at your home. Make sure to get a clear photo of the package being unopened. This ensures that you have evidence that the package if it actually is broken, was dropped off by a carrier in that condition.

You can also video yourself opening the package for the first time. Both ways work to show that any damage to a product was not caused by you. Most companies when you try to submit a claim for a damaged product will want to see that documentation.

For example, USPS asks for proof of damage and wants to see documentation that supports the claim you file. Similarly, Amazon also may want to see proof as it helps to prevent attempted fraud.

So whether or not a product may actually be damaged, if a package arrives in rough shape, you may want to consider filming and taking photos just in case.

Here are some other things to take into account with damaged goods:

When should you file it? Most companies will have set time limits on filing a claim. Make sure that as soon as you realize an item was damaged you file.

Who should you file a claim with? EBay is a good example of it might not always be clear on who you should file a claim with. If it’s a poorly packaged product that broke in transit it may be best to file a claim through Ebay. However, if the box has been smashed to bits or broken beyond the means reasonable, it would be more likely to file with the carrier who delivered it. In the worst scenario or if you’re just unsure, reach out to both and see what each has to say.

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What do you need to file a claim? Most companies are going to want to see proof of purchase, your tracking information, photos that showcase the same address or name on the package, and again photos that showcase the product arrived damaged. If you plan to file it’s easier to get all your documentation in order first.

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