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Receiving Freight: Clear Delivery
What about when you're on the other end of the freight move? Receiving
freight can be as easy an operation as sending it, if you follow a few
steps:
1. Stay in contact with your supplier to find out when your
shipment was shipped, what carrier it was given to, and an approximate
arrival date.
2. On arrival, inspect the shipment immediately for obvious
signs of damage.
3. Compare the actual number of handling units to the number
listed on the delivery receipt.
4. Sign the delivery receipt.
The carrier's driver will help you receive your shipment and answer
your questions.
While your driver is there, compare the pieces of freight you are receiving
to your carrier's freight bill. When you've determined that the condition
and quantity of your freight is acceptable, the driver will ask you
to sign the delivery receipt. The driver will provide you with a copy,
taking the signed copy with him (as a delivery receipt) for his employer's
records.
When a carrier receives a signed delivery receipt with no exceptions,
it is called a "clear delivery." Clear deliveries generally
mean everything went smoothly: success for shipper and the consignee.
An invoice for the shipment will be sent to the appropriate party soon
after pickup or delivery has been made, depending on whether the shipment
is prepaid or collect. Questions regarding the amounts shown on the
bill should be directed to your carrier. If you feel you have paid too
much, contact your carrier and ask to file an overcharge claim.
If a shipment is either short or damaged, you should still accept the
delivery. It's the duty of the shipper and the consignee to mitigate
the loss. After you accept the shipment, take steps to protect the shipment
from further loss and file a claims
form for the actual shortages or damages involved promptly.
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