For a chilled shipment, do not assume general parcel terms include the product or temperature service. Get the carrier's service scope in writing; liability after a loss depends on contract terms and applicable rules.
Clarify terms before dispatch
Ask whether the service is standard or temperature controlled, which route and delivery window it covers, and how transfers and delays are reported. The agreement or attachment should state whether temperature records are kept, who receives them and in what format, how exceptions are notified, and the claim deadline and documents.
Test packaging in a trial shipment on the same route and waiting window as the carrier service. Use a logger near the product and save start, arrival and any excursion records. A tested setup is not automatically validated for another route.
At delivery, record timestamp, package integrity, visible damage and reading beside the product with the recipient. If there is an issue, follow the carrier's notice and claim steps promptly.
File shipment, logger and correspondence under the same order number. These records help review the event; they do not by themselves determine legal liability.
