new inflatable damaged when shipped who pays???

[masilobes]

i purchased a new newport inflatables boat in january. i only bought it in january because an email from the sales dept. said prices were going up in february. i live in the northeast so when it was delivered there was 3 ft of snow on the ground and i just put it in the basement until now. when I opened the box and started to put it all together with the floorboards and all, i could hear a leak. a good 1/4 inch hole was just below the rub rail. as i looked in the box i can clearly see a staple sticking out right around where the hole was. ive contacted them about this and have been told most likely a patch kit would be sent to me. now maybe its just me but i just paid $900 and i dont want a patched boat. because it was shipped 5 months ago i dont think fed ex is gonna pay. but shouldent i get a new boat???

 

[dicor]

I'd be very surprised if there wasn't instructions on the shipping papers to inspect for damage upon arrival. I ship a lot of stuff, all insured I always instruct the customer to thoroughly inspect all the contents if damage is found keep the box and all packing for claim purposes. I doubt the insurance com. would never pay on a 5 month claim. It would have to come out of my pocket. If it was not damaged during shipping and you have proof I'd take lots of photos and hope form the best. Good Luck

 

[tdschafer]

I agree with the previous posters above. But, I would contact the Company President if you get no satisfaction and explain to him the same way you did here. It makes sense that you did not use it in the cold weather. Maybe he/she will be sympathetic, maybe not but it's worth a shot!

 

[fwebster]

If there is a good inch or so of unimpeded access around the staple hole where you can get a good patch on the boat you will be ahead of the game by asking for a rebate/discount and a free patch kit. This is not an expensive inflatable in the first place, so its service life is probably less than the life of the patch. Fix the boat and move on.