Area businesses will soon be shipping holiday orders, and the owner of a South Bend shipping advisor franchise has some tips for them.
Dan Anderson is the owner of Unishippers of South Bend, which partners with about 35 national and regional carriers as well as serving as a UPS reseller.
He gave some tips recently for heavier freight shippers, which he defined as shipping orders of one to 10 pallets.
Anderson said to be smart about the pallets used for shipping and how the product is prepared for transport. He advised using two or three layers of plastic wrap and marking boxes sequentially in case any become separated, as well as marking pallets with how many boxes are on them.
In case of damages, he said, “don’t panick, but make sure you clearly and accurately note them on the delivery sheet before the driver leaves.” In addition, ensure the driver signs the receipt, and take photos for your own records.
If damage is discovered after the carrier leaves, he added, leave it as-is, take pictures, report it to the carrier company, file a claim and have it inspected.
Also check the carrier’s liability limit for more valuable shipments, he noted.
Anderson also advised thinking ahead for holiday shipping – there are only a few weeks left till Christmas, and even fewer till Black Friday. A company may need to arrange pickup from UPS on certain days around the end of the year, he said, since it might not happen automatically.
