The 2-Minute Rule
When a damaged package arrives, most people rip it open to check the contents. Stop. The packaging damage is evidence — and how you document it determines whether the carrier pays. Once you open and discard it, you've lost proof of how the carrier handled your shipment.
Step-by-Step Documentation
1
Photograph the package as it arrived — on your doorstep, showing any visible damage2
Photograph shipping labels showing carrier and tracking info3
Photograph all sides of the outer box, highlighting damage4
Open carefully and photograph the internal packaging5
Photograph the damaged item from multiple angles6
Keep ALL packaging materials until the claim is resolved7
Screenshot your original order showing what you paidEvery photo should be timestamped and GPS-verified — this proves you documented it at delivery, not days later.
Filing by Carrier
Amazon — "Your Orders" → Report a Problem, attach timestamped photos
UPS — File claim at ups.com within 60 days, include all documentation
FedEx — File at fedex.com/claims within 21 days for visible damage
USPS — File at usps.com within 60 days, include photos and receipt
