Shipping Insurance Claim Packet — Evidence Checklist & PDF Generator

What is a shipping insurance claim packet?

It is an organized set of photos, proof of value, tracking details, and item descriptions you can use before filing a shipping insurance or carrier damage claim.

What do I need for a third-party shipping insurance claim?

Insurers such as Shipsurance, uPic, or Shippo typically ask for damage photos, proof of value, the tracking number, shipment and delivery dates, and a short description of the damage. Check your policy or claim portal for exact requirements.

What if I do not have photos of the original packaging?

Use what you have. Photos of the item, the box it arrived in, and any remaining cushioning material are still useful. If the packaging was discarded, note that in your claim and include any photos the receiver or customer sent you.

What photos do I need?

A damaged item photo, a photo of the item inside the package, a close-up of the shipping label, outside box damage, and packaging materials are the main ones.

Do I need a receipt or invoice?

Yes, some form of proof of value is usually important. A receipt, invoice, order confirmation, payment proof, or appraisal can help.

What if I do not have the serial number?

Add it if you can, especially for electronics. If it is not available, include the brand, model, color, size, quantity, value, and any proof that identifies the item.

Can this submit my claim for me?

No. This tool prepares the packet and checklist only. You still file with the carrier, insurer, or eBay support yourself.

Is this affiliated with UPS?

No. This is an independent preparation tool and is not UPS official.

How long do you have to file a UPS damage claim?

UPS requires damage claims to be filed within 60 days of the scheduled delivery date. File as soon as possible while packaging and evidence are still available.

Does the shipper or receiver file a UPS damage claim?

Either party can file, but the shipper (sender) usually files because they have the shipping record, declared value, and proof of purchase. The receiver should contact the shipper first so the shipper can start the claim.

How long does a UPS damage claim take?

UPS typically processes damage claims within 10 to 15 business days after receiving all required documentation. Complex cases or claims requiring inspection may take longer.

What is a concealed damage claim?

Concealed damage means the outer box looked fine but the item inside was damaged. Report concealed damage to UPS within 5 business days of delivery and keep all original packaging until the claim is resolved.

What happens after I file a UPS damage claim?

UPS reviews the claim and supporting documents. They may request additional photos, schedule a package inspection, or approve the claim. You can track the status in the UPS Claims Dashboard.

UPS says only eBay can file my claim — what can I prepare?

Labels bought through eBay are owned by eBay's carrier account, so UPS and FedEx often route the claim to eBay instead of you. You usually cannot file directly, but you can prepare what eBay support and the carrier ask for: the eBay order number, label and tracking details, damage photos, proof of value such as the eBay Order Receipt, and packaging photos. Contact eBay customer service with that packet ready so the claim can move in one pass.

Does eBay Ground Advantage include insurance?

eBay-purchased USPS Ground Advantage labels generally include up to $100 in carrier coverage, but sellers report USPS sometimes cannot see that coverage when a claim is filed. Keep the label receipt and eBay order details as proof of coverage, and be ready to appeal a denial that says the shipment was uninsured. Verify the current coverage terms in eBay's label settings before you ship.

What proof of value does USPS accept?

USPS asks for proof of the item's value, and denials often cite a missing or unreadable proof of value. For eBay sales, the eBay Order Receipt downloaded as a PDF, the ended listing page (sometimes called the Final Bid Page), and payment records showing the payment processor are the usual documents. Include the buyer and seller IDs and the transaction date so the record can be matched to the claim.

Can I use this packet for a lost package claim?

Yes, for the shared documents. A lost-package claim typically needs the tracking number and full tracking history, a USPS mail search request, the eBay order details, and proof of value. The photo slots focus on damage evidence, so skip those and attach the documents your claim form requests.

My claim was denied — can I appeal?

Most carriers and eBay allow at least one appeal, usually within a limited window after the denial. Appeals succeed when they answer the exact denial reason with new evidence, such as clearer proof of value, packaging photos, or the original mailing container for inspection. Even claims that were first approved can be reversed on a later review, which is why the item and packaging must be kept until the payment actually arrives. Keep the packaging until every appeal is exhausted, and attach the denial letter to your appeal.