Doug,
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<br>I sympathize with both sides of this situation. Serge said he would be there to inspect the shipment and he was not. Unfortunately, this is a common occorence. I've tried my darndest to be there to receive big shipments, but the reality is, that being there to receive shipment is often difficult, at best.
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<br>I've had main and jib sails shipped to me, and as for not being damaged in shipment, I had to hope for the best. Most people work for a living, and can't be receiving 30 foot shipments at work. So, naturally, this has to be shipped to their home. However, I always insisted on the shipper insuring the shipment for full replacement value. I can't imagine shipping a mast that is worth $1K or more without insuring it. That's just not prudent. Perhaps you did do this, and I have just misunderstood. I suppose to make an insurance claim, you have to be there?
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<br>Also, I find myself wondering who the person was who signed for shipment? Were they authorized to do so on Serge's behalf? If yes, than I'd say Serge also has a beef with that person. If no, than Serge certainly has a beef with the shipper for getting a signature from an unauthorized person.
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<br>In addition, I would tend to think that Mark Michaelson's packing suggestions were good ones. It sounds like the mast may have been inadequately protected for a long shipment. A box would have been worth the money, I'm afraid.
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<br>I'd also like to reiterate what Mark closed his post with:
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<br>"It doesn't happen often but when we do have a claim on a mast we either:
<br> A) prevail on insurance or
<br> B) Find a way to work with the freight company to get another mast to the
<br> customer at NO EXTRA charge. Yes, we do lose money sometimes. That's
<br> business."
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<br>I also happen to be in business for myself, and I know I could not afford to have this kind of publicity out there about me. I sincerely hope you and Serge can work this out in a way that is satisfactory for both of you.
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<br>I like many here often need parts, and I don't want to even have to bat an eye if you have the part I need.
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<br>Fair winds,
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<br>Tim Johnson<br><br>Hobie 20 #541
<br>Bald Eagle Yacht Club, Fleet 52
<br>White Bear Lake, MN