FedEx shipping damage

My experience with both Fed Ex and UPS is that they automatically deny nearly all claims, even after you jump through all the hoops and supply all the requested documentation. I am convinced their tactic is to make the process so frustrating that most customers just give up. 

Do not be surprised if you get a response claiming the packaging was inadequate even though it was factory packaging. They will likely want proof that the cardboard conforms to some industry standard (as they did with a pair of Revels I shipped despite them being double-boxed in double-wall boxes). 

If you are willing to influence their decision by mentioning legal action, you could very well be reimbursed eventually.

As much as many of us loathe excessive government regulation, why in the hell is this industry not held accountable.  Shippers ought to be required to provide a precise list of requirements when you purchase insurance so that you know exactly what you need to do to submit a successful claim.  And they ought to be fined if they do not issue payment within a stated amount of time.  And then tack on a penalty, paid to the shipper, when they do not comply.  Wouldn’t it be nice if our government actually did something useful!?!?!?

Unfortunately, the double insurance won't do you any good because they will only pay for the actual loss, and you will have to produce a receipt to file the claim.

I have a lot of experience with UPS, not very much with FedEx.

UPS can be hit and miss. The horror stories, had a damaged boxed returned with tire tracks on it (was run over by one of their trucks). They asked how I could prove it was their truck? Did not pay claim.

Had a shipment of multiple boxes they picked up. Driver forgot to pick one box up[. They produced a delivery receipt. That is magical since I still had the box in my possession. as trying to prove a point their system was not full proof. They denied the claim and were not amused when I exposed what happened and they NEVER admitted they were wrong.

Whatever you do, don't loose you cool because that will result in a brick wall being built and you will have no chance of collecting. 

It is true that once boxes go through the shipping process (being shipped from point "A" top point "B", the box can loose a lot of strength. When boxes are dropped on their corners, the strength of the box is compromised and weakened. 

Good luck.

I’ve shipped over a hundred jazz archtop guitars and a ton of audio gear with FedEx. Not one damage report . How were they packaged?

If you shipped those speakers back to the vendor you bought them from in just the original packaging without the overpack they shipped them in they probably wouldn't except them. If for some reason you threw overpack away, Fed Ex usually can provide an overpack of some sort if they have it on hand at additional cost which in addition to insurance ensures your shipment gets to it's destination in one piece.

I make this standard practice when I ship to vendors say when they give me credit to trade up to a better-quality component. It's your responsibility and part of the deal!