Over, Short, and Damaged
Over, short, and damaged (OS&D) is the category of delivery exceptions in which received freight exceeds, falls below, or arrives in worse condition than what the bill of lading lists, and the term also names the carrier department that handles them.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
How your team handles OS&D at the dock often decides whether a later freight claim pays. Any overage, shortage, or damage must be noted on the delivery receipt before signing, or the claim becomes much harder to win. For example, if you sign for a pallet in good condition and later find 6 crushed cartons worth $900, you must argue concealed damage instead of pointing to written proof. Count pieces and inspect packaging while the driver is still present, and describe each exception specifically.
Common questions
- What should my warehouse do if an LTL delivery arrives short or damaged?
- Write the specific exception on the delivery receipt, such as "2 cartons short" or "1 pallet crushed," before signing, and photograph the freight. Then notify the carrier and file a freight claim with supporting documents.
- What does it mean to sign a delivery receipt subject to count?
- It notes that you have not verified the piece count, but carriers often treat it as too vague to support a shortage claim. Count the freight and write the actual exception instead.
- What should I do with overage freight?
- Note the extra pieces on the delivery receipt and tell the carrier, which will usually arrange pickup or send them to the right consignee. Keep overage freight out of sellable inventory until ownership is confirmed.