If you’ve ever excitedly ripped open a package only to find the item inside is damaged then you’re not alone! It costs businesses millions every year to resolve damage claims. The main issue is often that it is difficult to know, or prove, who is at fault.
For example, you order a new phone and it arrives damaged. Was it packed damaged, damaged by the delivery company, or have you broken it when you received it? Resolving fault can be a complicated and time-consuming issue.
Protecting Items
For this reason, many firms are now choosing to use an impact indicator on their parcels. This is a simple sticker with a dot in the middle. The dot is usually black but it changes to red if the parcel has been mishandled.
The level of mishandled will be decided by the sensitivity of the impact indicator, there are different stickers for different sensitivity levels.
Impact indicators are designed to detect drops, temperature changes, impact, excess humidity, and even excess pressure from over-stacking.
By putting a sticker on the company is confirming that it is leaving the premises in good condition. They are also advising the delivery company to look after the item. Providing the dot hasn’t changed color you should receive an item that is in full working order and perfect condition.
Items Worth protecting
Of course, adding an impact indicator to your parcel will increase the cost of packing and delivery. This makes it uneconomical in some instances. In others, it should be seen as essential.
Here are the top 10 items damaged in transit. F you’re ordering one of these it’s a good idea to see f the company uses impact indicators. It could save you a lot of frustration.
- Cell Phones
- Laptops & computers
- Sound Equipment
- Kitchen appliances
- Furniture – specifically flat-packed
- Ornaments
- Exercise equipment
- Crockery
- Food Products
- Toys
Sometimes the damage is very small and the product looks okay. But, don’t forget that even a small hole in the box can cause parts to fall out, leaving you with a product that you can’t assemble properly.
What To Do If Your Product Is Damaged
If the parcel arrives with an impact indicator then check it before you sign. Signing for the parcel transfers responsibility to you. If the impact indicator shows damage has occurred then reject the parcel immediately.
If it looks okay, or there is no impact indicator then you should always open the parcel as soon as possible and check the contents. If it needs assembly, verify all the parts are there before you start.
If you do find there is an issue with the product then you’ll need to follow the complaints procedure outlined by your supplier. Make sure you do this within the timescale agreed as this will help to ensure you get a replacement or refund as quickly as possible.
You should be polite but firm when talking to customer services, don’t let them brush you off!