Receiving Your OrderUpdated a year ago
When purchasing tables, chairs, and other large event equipment, shipping is a bit more complicated than just putting it in a box and sticking it in the mail. Most times, event equipment has to ship with freight carriers.
This means it’s on a pallet and brought by big box trucks, like the semi-trucks you see driving down the highway. Receiving a freight shipment can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first one.
Occasionally, although rare, freight damages can happen during transit as well. This guide will explain how to sign for a shipment, and what to do if something goes wrong or shows up damaged.
The first thing you’ll want to do when receiving a freight shipment, is find out the delivery date. If you are unavailable during certain days or times, you can contact the freight company beforehand to set up a delivery appointment to avoid missing the delivery! If you order through EventStable, you will receive a shipment email after your order leaves our warehouse.
Your tracking information will be included, which you can use to track your order, see the delivery date, and get contact information for an appointment if you need it!
Signing For Your Freight Shipment
When the shipment arrives, the freight company will offload the freight. It’s important to keep in mind that the delivery drivers will NOT bring the freight inside, unless the shipment is specifically booked as a “white glove delivery” (yeah, it’s THAT fancy…) When the shipment is off the truck, ask the driver to wait while you inspect the shipment.
If they refuse, make absolutely sure that you note that the driver refused to wait for your inspection when you sign the receipt. Even if the boxes look completely intact, there can sometimes be concealed damages.
Noting the inspection ensures that a claim can be filed for any damages so that replacements can be sent to you right away. We know how important it is to have functioning tables for your events, after all, broken tables are not very useful.
If the driver is willing to wait, inspect the shipment while they are still present so they can assist noting anything that might be wrong. If they won’t wait, continue the inspection after signing.
Inspecting Your Shipment
First, check for any obvious signs of damage. Broken pallets and ripped boxes are both indicators of rough handling during transit, and potential damages. (TIP: Anything that seems off, note on the delivery receipt! The more information, the better for the claim rep who may assist you in the future)
Next, you’ll want to unpack the items.
Count all the items you received to make sure that the order is complete, check that the color and models are correct as well, and for any visible damage.
If anything is wrong, snap a quick photo, then keep it in its original packaging. If you notice any damage, shortage, or incorrect items, file a claim right away! The more time in between delivery and notice of an issue, the more difficult it is to send replacement items.
Unpacking Your Order
As you unpack everything, make sure that all the parts are included (if you bought carts or dollies check for nuts and bolts!) As soon as you’ve confirmed that you have everything, and it’s all in good shape, you’re ready to use your new event equipment.
At this point, you can dispose of the shipping materials (the pallet and boxes) and relax a little bit. Maybe sit in one of your brand new folding chairs and kick your feet up?
Accepting a freight shipment can seem like a daunting task, especially if you have a lot of inventory on the way! We know how important it is for you to get your equipment in good shape, and in a timely manner.
Following these steps will ensure the quickest turn-around time if anything goes awry! Plus, If you order with EventStable, you can always call in to our customer service line, or use our online live chat if you’d like advice at any step of the way.