Sometimes a shipment arrives with a problem, which may include damage, missing items, overages, or shortages. All problems with shipments must be reported to the vendor or carrier, depending on the nature of the problem. If a problem most likely occurred in transit, such as damage to the container, then a freight claim will need to be filed with the carrier.

• If it is obvious to Central Distribution Services that a shipment is damaged, CDS will notify the carrier and file the appropriate claims. Immediate action is necessary to comply with the time limits set by carriers for filing damage claims.


• For unidentifiable merchandise, CDS will contact Purchasing Services, and they will contact the requesting department and vendor to resolve the problem.


• If a problem such as a shortage or overage is discovered after the department opens and examines the contents of a package, the department should contact Procurement Services at 814-863-2097 to resolve the problem with the vendor. If the contents appear to have been damaged in shipping, then the department should contact CDS at 814-865-8620 or 814-863-0317 within 48 hours of receipt for assistance in filing a claim with the carrier.

Personal Items
If personal items arrive at Receiving, we assume no obligation for reporting damage claims, claiming concealed damage, or reporting incorrect shipments.