posted on July 18, 2001 06:23:58 PM
Would appreciate you inputs on the following situation. I am sorry it is so long, but I wanted to give all the details.......
I recently shipped three 11" by 14" matted prints to Europe. I followed my standard shipment methods for International shipment; the matted prints were sealed inside a Global Priority mail large tyvac envelope with heavy cardboard reinforcement on each side, which then is slipped inside a flatted global Priority box (that is sized at least 1 inch large than the item it contains) which has reinforcement ribs taped to it's length and width, which is then all slipped inside another Global Priority mail tyvac envelope which has all edges taped with packing tape to ressist any shipment abrasion. The package is labeled both inside and out side with the 'to' & from' information, the outside shipment label has clear tape over the 'to' information, and the package is marked on both sides 'Do Not Bend'. The package, overall, is quite robust and I have shipped almost 700 shipments overseas without any problems.
I received positive feedback from the Buyer, this morning, with one word in each of the 3 transactions 'Perfect'. Later I received an email from the buyer saying the shipment was received damaged and the prints were bent.
I sent back the following email :
------------------------------------------
Hi XXXX -
I am sorry that the prints were not delivered to you in the same fine condition that they left in.
I am confused, and need some more details. I was happy to see and do appreciate the feedback you left me saying that the items were 'Perfect'.
The shipment packaging that contained the prints was quite robust, as well as the fact that there were 3 matted prints together made the packaging very stiff and almost impossible to bend. Does the packing show signs of, or was it received bent?? Are there any rips or tears in the package? Was the package opened by Customs Officials? Are the mats bent or is it just the prints?? Was the interior envelope still sealed when you received it?
Please be aware that Global Priority Mail can not be insured, so there is no coverage on this shipment. I package shipments as robust as I can, especially for overseas shipment, and this is the first report I have received in almost 700 shipments, of shipment damage.
I will work with you in any way I can, but I do need the additional information.
Regards,
---------------------------------------
I could replace the matted prints, but the shipment cost would excede any profit I made on the transaction. I also have the thought, devil get off my shoulder, that I am being manipulated for an second set of prints.
posted on July 18, 2001 06:37:37 PM
First, Check with the post office.
Second wait for a response. His feedback might reflect the fact that the damage was not your fault, bad handling. Packages do get crushed no matter how much protection you use. If they show signs of being checked in customs you may have recourse, PO may be able to give you contact info for that country.
posted on July 18, 2001 06:41:23 PM
Requset a picture of the prints and the packageing it was shipped in would be a good start.
That will give you fair Idea of the damage and what caused it.
if they send the picture(s) proof of the damage , about the only two routes I would use would be to offer part refund or ask for them returned for full refunds not includeing return postage. http://www.Dman-N-Company.com
Email [email protected]
posted on July 18, 2001 07:39:30 PM
I think you can insure most international packages through U-pic. I don't but you can. If I want insurance I use Parcel Post. If they left you good feedback it seems a little fishy.
fonze