What Should I Do If My Forevermark Petit White Cabinets Arrive Damaged?

Introduction: Addressing Damaged Cabinets

Receiving Forevermark Petit White Cabinets damaged during shipping can be frustrating, especially when planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel. Cabinets may arrive scratched, dented, or with missing parts. Understanding the proper steps to take, from inspecting the shipment to filing claims and coordinating replacements, ensures a smooth resolution. Prompt action can prevent installation delays, maintain the integrity of your project, and preserve your warranty coverage.

Inspecting Your Cabinets Upon Delivery

1. Check the Packaging

• Examine the outer packaging for signs of damage, such as crushed corners, tears, or water exposure.

• Take note of shipping labels, handling marks, and delivery condition, as this information may be necessary for claims.

2. Inspect Cabinets Before Unpacking

• Carefully remove boxes and check for obvious dents, scratches, or broken pieces.

• Use a flashlight to look inside boxes for hidden damage that might not be visible immediately.

3. Document the Damage

• Take photographs and videos of all damaged cabinets, labeling each box with notes about the damage.

• Documentation is crucial for warranty claims, insurance, and reporting to the manufacturer or delivery service.

4. Verify Parts and Accessories

• Check for missing hardware, screws, drawer slides, or hinges.

• Compare received items with the packing list to ensure everything shipped is accounted for.

Steps to Take After Discovering Damage

1. Contact the Seller Immediately

• Reach out to Forevermark directly or the authorized dealer from which you purchased the cabinets.

• Provide photos, videos, and a detailed description of the damage.

• Include order numbers, shipment tracking, and delivery dates to expedite resolution.

2. Review the Return and Warranty Policy

• Check Forevermark’s warranty coverage for shipping damage.

• Some warranties cover manufacturing defects and shipping damage, while others may require proof of mishandling during delivery.

• Know your rights for replacement, repair, or credit.

3. File a Shipping Claim

• If damage occurred during transit, contact the shipping carrier promptly.

• Provide evidence, photographs, and documentation from the delivery.

• Keep a copy of all correspondence for reference.

4. Follow Instructions for Returns or Replacements

• The seller or manufacturer may provide prepaid labels, pickup instructions, or replacement shipment details.

• Ensure that all damaged cabinets are returned or photographed as instructed.

• Confirm the timeline for receiving replacement parts or units.

Temporary Measures for Minor Damage

1. Minor Scratches or Dents

• Small scratches can sometimes be touched up using paint pens, markers, or touch-up kits recommended by Forevermark.

• Use light sanding or polishing only as advised to avoid voiding the warranty.

2. Missing Hardware

• Temporary use of similar screws or fasteners may be possible until replacements arrive.

• Ensure these temporary measures do not damage the cabinet further.

3. Staging Installation

• If only some cabinets are damaged and others are intact, consider installing undamaged units first, leaving damaged ones aside for replacement.

• Coordinate with your installer to minimize disruption and protect installed cabinets.

Preventing Damage During Future Shipments

1. Choose Reliable Shipping Options

• When ordering directly from Forevermark or dealers, ask about insurance coverage and careful handling services.

• Opt for freight services with protective packaging for larger, pre-assembled units.

2. Inspect Upon Delivery

• Never sign delivery receipts as “undamaged” without careful inspection.

• Report any damage immediately to increase the likelihood of smooth claims processing.

3. Store Cabinets Properly

• If installation is delayed, store cabinets in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.

• Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of cabinet boxes to prevent future damage.

Coordinating With Installers

1. Inform Installation Teams

• Notify your contractor or installation team about damaged units before starting work.

• This ensures they don’t install compromised cabinets, which could affect alignment, safety, or aesthetics.

2. Schedule Replacements

• Coordinate delivery of replacements to arrive before installation of affected areas.

• Proper timing reduces project delays and minimizes disruption to the renovation timeline.

3. Verify Replacement Quality

• Inspect all replacement cabinets immediately upon arrival.

• Check for scratches, dents, and completeness of hardware before proceeding with installation.

Dealing With Significant Damage

• Severely damaged units should not be installed under any circumstances, as this may compromise structural integrity.

• If cabinets arrive with broken drawers, warped doors, or missing panels, they must be replaced.

• Keep all damaged items in their original packaging for return or insurance claims.

Working With Forevermark Customer Service

• Customer service can guide you through warranty coverage, replacement parts, and approved touch-up procedures.

• Always have your order number, delivery date, and photos ready when contacting support.

• Authorized dealers or customer service can also provide installation tips for new units and advice for handling minor cosmetic issues.

Tips for a Smooth Resolution

1. Document Everything: Take detailed photos, videos, and notes from delivery through replacement.

2. Act Quickly: Notify sellers and carriers as soon as damage is discovered to comply with deadlines.

3. Keep Packaging: Retain original boxes for returns or inspections.

4. Separate Damaged from Undamaged Units: Prevents confusion and accidental installation of compromised cabinets.

5. Use Authorized Repair Kits: Only use touch-up products recommended by Forevermark to maintain finish and warranty.

Conclusion

If Forevermark Petit White Cabinets arrive damaged, taking immediate and documented action is essential. Inspect the shipment thoroughly, contact the seller or manufacturer promptly, and file shipping claims if necessary. Minor scratches or missing hardware can often be addressed with touch-ups, but structural damage or missing components should be replaced before installation. Coordinating with professional installers and maintaining clear communication with Forevermark ensures your project proceeds smoothly. By following these steps, homeowners can protect their investment, maintain the beauty and integrity of their cabinets, and complete their renovation successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I install damaged cabinets temporarily while waiting for replacements?
A: Only minor cosmetic issues like small scratches may be temporarily acceptable. Structural damage should not be installed.

Q2: How long do I have to report shipping damage?
A: Report damage immediately upon delivery; many carriers and manufacturers require notification within 24–48 hours.

Q3: Does Forevermark cover shipping damage under warranty?
A: Yes, shipping damage is typically covered under warranty or through the seller’s shipping policies, provided it is reported promptly.

Q4: Can I use DIY touch-up kits on scratches?
A: Yes, but only use kits recommended by Forevermark to avoid voiding the warranty.

Q5: Who handles the cost of shipping replacements?
A: Forevermark or the seller usually covers shipping for damaged units, but confirm with customer service before arranging installation.