Breaker, Breaker: Dock Damage Claims
Dock nicked your rig? Don't just grumble on Channel 19. Get it in writing, good buddy. 10-4?
For when a shipper, receiver/facility, or broker's operation damages your truck or trailer during loading or unloading.
1. Document it at the dock
- Photos: wide shot, close-ups, the door/dock number, and a timestamp
- Write the damage on the BOL/POD before you sign
- Keep the lumper receipt
- Get a signed incident note from the facility (name, title, time)
2. Send written notice
- To the facility's claims or risk department
- To the broker (if one arranged the load)
- Include photos, the BOL/POD, the repair estimate, and the load number
3. Find the broker's info
- Look up the MC/USDOT on SAFER and FMCSA L&I for contact and insurance on file
- Ask if the broker carries a contingent policy, which may respond when other coverage doesn't
4. Where to report
- FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database (brokers & carriers)
- A claim against the broker's BMC-84 surety bond or BMC-85 trust. The provider is listed in FMCSA L&I
- Your state attorney general's consumer protection office (find yours)
- Optional: the BBB
Samples only, not legal advice. This information and these templates are general samples. TruckWise Safety & Claims is not a law firm and is not liable for how they're used or for any errors. Check with your insurer or an attorney about your situation.