So I ordered six packages and when I picked them up from the post office 2 were completely dead (not a single live bee). I contacted the supplier and they told me to file a claim with the post office. Has anyone ever successfully filed a claim with the post office for dead packages and actually been reimbursed?
USPS Changes for the 2021 Bee Season
In our annual kick-off meeting with USPS we were told the USPS wants all bee packages sent via Parcel Select. USPS will no longer allow bees shipments to be classified as Priority Mail.
Why the change? The USPS classifies Priority Mail as only mail that can go on aircraft. Due to new rules from the FAA it is virtually impossible to ship bees with any freight company this year. There really is no difference between Priority Main and Parcel Select since bee packages have only been allowed to ship via ground transport for over 75 years.
Will the insurance still cover a loss? Yes, USPS will still honor any shipping problem that involves a loss. This classification should allow a broader insurance loss allowance. USPS will not honor insurance claims when shipped thru Priority Mail.
What is deemed as a loss? The USPS loss is done as follows, if the dead bees evenly cover the bottom of the cage equals 1 inch or greater, then a claim can be filed at USPS.com It should be noted that most claims are due to the bee package being delivered and stuffed into a HOT courier’s vehicle.
How do you successfully receive your bee package? When you receive a shipping notification, you will want to call your post office and let them know your bee shipment is on the way. You will want to give them your phone number to call you when they come into the post office. They can call you on a early morning or even on the weekend. This will help ensure your bee package is less stressed. Remember, if you let a courier deliver to your home the chances are really high for your package to over heat and die.
What do you do if there is significant loss in the bee cage? The good news is that we have less than 2% of our shipments have a problem. You can request the postal official to
scan the bee package as damaged in shipping. This will ensure you will receive 100% of your money back within 10 days. Now, with this said, there are many postal offical’s that do not know the USPS rules. All of our packages are inspected by the USPS officials prior to shipping out our bees. This inspection is critical as now the custody is transferred to USPS.
What if a postal official refuses to scan the bee package? You can still file a insurance claim through USPS.com. You will need to supply pictures with your claim and the details of the loss. Remember, the USPS claim review wants all the facts and pictures to pay your claim.