If you receive a bike that’s damaged in shipment, what would you do? This is a question many cyclists face every day, and it can be difficult to know what to do when something goes wrong. In this blog post, I’ll explore
- Reasons for bikes damaged during shipping?
- How to prevent damage during shipping?
- What will you do if damage occurs?
By following these steps, you’ll be able to resolve any issues quickly and without hassle.
Another post that will interest you is about How To Pack And Ship A Mountain Bike? (Pro Guide Of Bike Shipping).
Reason For Bike Damaged During Shipment
Shipping damage is one of the most expensive damages for bike owners. A bike owner needs to take care of their bike. You can prevent shipping damage by understanding the causes of such incidents. Bikes get damaged during shipping for the following reasons:
The Box Is Too Big
When a bike is packed inside a larger box with extra space, it is obvious that it will move around inside the box during shipping. Moreover, improper packaging with no padding will cause damage before it reaches its destination.
Weather-Related Damage
When bicycles are shipped openly, they can suffer damage during transport. In open shipping, your motorcycle is strapped down and secured for the trip, but it shares space with other bikes that may be exposed to the weather.
In other words, your bike is exposed to whatever weather conditions are present at the time: snow, rain, hail, and more. Additionally, any rocks and pebbles that are thrown up by the truck during those weather conditions can damage your bike. If you’re planning on going more than 500 miles, opt for enclosed shipping instead.
Scratches and Dents
Motorcycles are also susceptible to this type of damage. Motorcycles may suffer these types of damage if they are not properly secured during transit. Transport can be rough, both on land and by sea. On rough seas, this can easily happen.
Fragile Handling
Whenever a shipment is transported over a long distance, it will pass through several fulfillment centers and be controlled by delivery vehicles. Many people will handle a package in this supply chain process. A single mishandling event can damage the bike.
How To Prevent Bike Shipping Damage?
Now you know why bikes are damaged during shipping. So, here are some specific ways you can prevent shipping damage.
Use Proper Box Packaging Materials
For bike owners, bike packaging might be the cheapest part, but it’s the most important to avoid shipping damage losses. There are many inevitable costs associated with transportation or storage.
It is therefore common for people to try and reduce the cost of packaging and shipping. Do not make this mistake, as it will cost you heavily in the long run.
Cardboard boxes made of corrugated paper are not suitable for handling bike weights. Choose double-layered cardboard boxes or other alternatives that can support the bike weight when loaded.
Pick The Right Size Of The Box
You can have a box a little larger than your bike. Make sure the box size is not much larger than the product box. Fill the empty spaces with cushioning material and pack it tight with the original packaging.
Wrap Bike Properly
Cushioning and wrapping are only needed for fragile bike parts. To prevent shipping damage, all parts need to be properly wrapped. Different fulfillment centers handle items differently.
You cannot evaluate whether bubble wrap protection is needed for the bike. Wrapping all the parts of the bike is the best way to eliminate the chance of damage caused by inappropriate or insufficient cushioning.
Measure Accurate Dimension
You should enter accurate dimensions and weight when using a shipping service. When using a shipping service, it is important to enter accurate dimensions and weight. Always round up fractions when using a tape measure or scale.
Run Trials To Check Safe Packaging
It is necessary to test the bike before shipping it. There are a lot of people who are confused about consistent packaging, especially when they are packaging bikes for the first time. Close the container, and shake it vigorously to ensure that all parts of your bike are in it. If anything rattles or rolls, add more padding or zip ties.
Track Packaging
You can also prevent shipping damage by keeping track of your packaging. You can track the package and ensure it reaches safely.
Insurance
Having your bike insured in transit will protect you from any damages or losses. When shipping your bike internationally, insurance is very important.
Taking Photos
Make sure you take a photo of your packing before shipping it. It will make it easier for you to file a claim if any damage occurs.
What Would You Do If Your Bike Get Damaged In Shipment Despite Of Taking All Prevention
Ensure that your bike shipment is insured so that the insurance covers the damage. If not, you may need to file a claim with the courier, and they will let you know what their position is.
How Do I File A Claim?
To create a claim file simply go to your shipping company website and fill up the claim form.
To fill out a Claims Form, you will need the following items:
- Number of order
- The tracking number
- Contact information (name, email, phone)
- Damage photos and descriptions
- Photos of packing and outside of container
- Repair or replacement estimate for damaged parts
- Proof of purchase, such as original purchase receipt if available
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
How Do I Ship A Bike Internationally?
You can ship your bike through UPS or FedEx (in a bike box, of course). FedEx insures bike cases, but UPS does not. You can ship your bike domestically and internationally with Bikeflights. They will pick up your packed bike and ship it for you. They will even provide a box for you to ship your bike in.
Can I Send A Bike By DHL?
You can also ship your bike with DHL, as they choose the cheapest option.
What Is The Best Way To Send A Bike?
Using a bike shipping box will be the simplest way to protect your bike from knocks and bumps in transit. This box is large enough to fit your bike. You can use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or screwed up newspaper as internal packaging and parcel tape to secure your box.
What Is A Cargo Bike Courier?
Courier and logistics companies will benefit from cargo bikes in the future. Compared to small vans, they offer a carbon neutral solution for your deliveries, as well as quicker collection and delivery times.
Final Words
The process of shipping a bike is simple once you have learned the basics of it. When it comes to shipping a bike, packing is one of the most important factors.
If you want to prevent damage to your bike, make sure that you pack it properly. By following these prevention tips, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free bike shipment resolution. These precautions will help you prevent any potential damage to your bike.
