[Jay H 237]

There is nothing you can do about having scuffs and scrapes on the outside of the crates and it will happen in shipping. 237's own crate is finished nicely on the outside and it has some marks on it. When the crates are put on trucks, planes, loading docks they will rub up against other objects. They can even get scuffed with the bulkhead on the forklift. Expecting to always have a pristine exterior on a crate is unrealistic.

Now, having large gouges, punctures and holes in the create is unacceptable. The problem lies in trying to figure out WHO did it. While FedEx shipped it they might have had nothing to do with the damage. The people at the venue may have damaged it during loading or unloading. FedEx doesn't load/unload the trucks at the venues, that's where the shipping/recieving department at each venue comes in. They could damage something then shrink wrap it and then load it on the truck when FedEx shows up.

At times I've had to fill in at the shipping and recieving department where I work. I can also tell you that don't be surprised if settling a claim takes weeks or even months. If you do notice damage to your crate photograph it BEFORE you open it. Take pictures of all sides. Then take more photos as you open it then finally of the contents. Also when you get the paperwork/bill of landing from the truck/shipper make a note of the damage at time of delivery when you sign for it.