You get asked lots of questions at the Post Office. They ask what's in your package, and how you want to protect the contents in case they're damaged. We found there's one thing the Post Office isn't telling you that could cost you.
"I'm really frustrated," explained Ruth Kesslin. Frustrated that a relaxing hobby has turned into such an ordeal.
"I made two sweaters for babies," Kesslin said. "One sweater I got a thank you note and one sweater I never heard from the people."
The packages were sent Priority Mail. You pay a flat fee and get tracking and insurance up to $50. It's all on your receipt, but there's one thing that's not on that receipt and it's important if you want to file a claim for a lost or damaged item.
"I would like people to know they only have two months," Kesslin said.
Two months to file a claim. The only place it's printed is online.
"I don't know anyone who knows that," Kesslin explained.
The United States Postal Service says it doesn't tell you about the two month rule on the receipt because they have a lot of regulations. The receipt only says you should go to the Post Office's website for details on filing a claim.
They have forwarded the request to post the 60 day rule on the receipt to headquarters.
"I think it should be at least six months that you can make a claim," Kesslin explained.
To make a claim you need the tracking number from your receipt. You have to prove the value of the item, and show the damage. Don't forget you only have 60 days.
Whether you choose the Post Office, FedEx, or UPS to ship your holiday items, wrap your packages with care. That's a big reason claims are denied. Don't forget the bubble wrap or newspaper to pad what you have inside. It's also a good idea to take a picture of how it's packed, just in case the items are damaged during shipping.
