To keep your order eligible for support or a damage claim, follow this checklist at the time of delivery. These steps are required under our Sales Terms & Conditions and ensure proper documentation for both insured and uninsured shipments.
1. Inspect the shipment before signing
Before you sign anything:
- Walk around the pallet or boxes.
- Look for visible damage: crushed corners, punctures, tears, dents, holes, ripped shrink wrap, loose straps or exposed product.
- Do not rush. Take the time you need to inspect.
If something looks off, continue with this checklist even if the damage seems minor or uncertain.
2. Photograph the shipment before moving it
Take clear photos of:
- All sides of the pallet or boxes
- Any damaged or suspicious areas
- Shipping labels
- Broken straps, torn wrapping or compromised packaging
- The entire shipment on the delivery truck (optional but useful)
Photos are required for both insured and uninsured claims.
3. Check for signs of concealed damage
Even if the exterior looks fine, check for:
- Torn cardboard
- Re-taped or opened boxes
- Bulging or crushed product boxes
- Wet, oily or stained packaging
- An unstable or shifting load
If anything seems unusual, treat the shipment as potentially damaged.
4. Mark the BOL as “DAMAGED” on both copies
If any damage is visible or even suspected, you must:
- Write “DAMAGED” on the bill of lading
- Write it on both the driver’s copy and your copy
- Add a brief note, for example “crushed corner”, “puncture” or “shrink wrap torn”
- Have the driver acknowledge the notation with a signature or initials
- Take a photo of the marked BOL
Do not sign a clean BOL if damage exists — doing so may void your claim eligibility.
If the driver refuses to allow notes (rare), write “Driver refused to allow damage notation” and photograph the refusal if possible.
5. Unbox carefully
If it is safe to do so before the driver leaves (recommended):
- Photograph the interior packaging
- Photograph the damaged items
- Document how the product was secured
- Note any missing components or irregularities
These photos strongly support the claim process.
6. Save all packaging materials
Keep everything, including the pallet, boxes, foam, cardboard, protective wrap, spacers and inserts.
Carriers may require an in-person inspection. Throwing packaging away may jeopardize your claim.
7. Report any damage within 48 hours
You must report the damage and submit a claim within 48 hours of delivery at circuitsolar.com/claims.
Provide:
- Photos
- The marked BOL showing “DAMAGED”
- Your order number
- A description of the issue
- All packaging details
Claims submitted outside this window, or without complete documentation, may be denied.
8. Do not install or use damaged products
Using or installing damaged items may void warranties, complicate or invalidate claims, and prevent safe troubleshooting and inspection.
Set the item aside until our claims team has assessed the situation.