How to File an LTL Freight Claim: South Florida Shipper’s Guide

Filing LTL Freight Claims: What South Florida Shippers Need to Know

Despite best efforts, freight damage occasionally occurs during LTL shipping. Knowing how to properly document damage and file claims with carriers protects your business financially. This guide walks South Florida shippers through the claims process from delivery inspection through resolution.

Inspect at Delivery — No Exceptions

The most important step in protecting your claim rights happens at the moment of delivery. Inspect every LTL shipment before signing the delivery receipt. Note any visible damage, shortage, or discrepancy on the delivery receipt before the driver leaves. Writing “subject to inspection” does not replace noting specific damage.

Document Everything

Photograph damage from multiple angles immediately upon discovery. Capture images of outer packaging damage, inner packaging condition, and the damaged product itself. Save all packaging materials — carriers may inspect them as part of claims investigation. Keep the original bill of lading, delivery receipt, and commercial invoice readily accessible.

Understanding Carrier Liability

Under the Carmack Amendment, LTL carriers are liable for freight damage during transport with few exceptions. However, standard liability limits are typically $0.50 to $25 per pound — far less than most freight’s actual value. Higher declared value or freight insurance purchased before shipment provides full value protection.

Filing Deadlines

Federal law requires freight claims to be filed within 9 months of delivery (or reasonable delivery date for lost freight). However, filing promptly — within 30 days — dramatically improves resolution success. Go Freight’s claims management team files on behalf of customers within days of damage notification.

Required Claim Documentation

A complete freight claim includes the original bill of lading, delivery receipt with damage notations, photographs, repair estimate or replacement cost documentation, and a formal claim letter stating the amount requested. Incomplete claims face delays or denial.

Concealed Damage Claims

Sometimes damage isn’t visible until unpacking. Concealed damage claims are harder to win but not impossible. Report concealed damage to the carrier within 5 days of delivery, preserve all packaging, and request carrier inspection. Providing evidence that damage occurred during transit rather than before or after is key.

Preventing Future Claims

The best claim is one you never have to file. Proper packaging, accurate freight classification, and carrier selection based on handling quality — not just price — reduce damage rates. Our warehouse team inspects and documents outbound LTL shipment condition, creating pre-shipment evidence that strengthens claims if damage occurs.