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Tips for Shipping Customers

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Nov 6, 2008 11:17 am US/Pacific

Tips for Shipping Customers

From Joe Rideout, Consumer Action

Consumer Action is a non-profit, membership-based organization founded in San Francisco in 1971 to advance consumer rights, refer consumers to helpful agencies, publish educational materials, and advocate for consumers with the media and lawmakers.

To make sure any future claim is not denied on the basis of improper packing, make sure you pack everything securely or have the store pack valuable items for you.

Use a credit card - if your item arrives damaged or never arrives, you have 60 days to request a "charge-back" from the credit card company. The credit card company can get your money back from the seller. That's not the case if you use a debit card or other forms of payment.

If your package is damaged, photograph it as soon as it arrives. Photograph the inside as well to show it was packed properly.

If your claim is denied by a claims adjuster, that doesn't have to be the end of the story. You can often appeal to a claims manager, claims supervisor, or regional claims manager.
If all other avenues fail, consider taking the company to small claims court. It's more simple than you might think. It costs only a nominal filing fee and you do not need a lawyer. Often companies will settle for a reasonable compromise rather than send a representative to small claims court to fight you.