UPS United Parcel Service Destroyed Computer During Delivery Atlanta, Georgia

Let's make lots of assumptions. We'll assume this computer tested fine before it was crated. We'll also assume, because of the somewhat unorthodox crating, that this was a custom built computer that came from a private party rather than a major corporation. We'll also assume the crate was made of sturdy plywood and screws, rather than thin chipboard and nails.

I'm not sure how shoe prints from sliding or stepping on a crate can affect the contents. In order for a mother board or graphics card to be physically damaged due to shipping with any company, the crate would have to be cracked or falling apart and the computer case would have to be crushed. Let's assume that wasn't the case. Assuming this was a custom computer, and not a standard commercial model, those circuit board/cards are often not fastened or secured the same. Those boards/cards are often only friction fit into the socket. They also often have no mounting guides to keep them from bending or vibrating out of place. When these cards are not mounted, as is typically done for commercial used, they can come lose then rattle around causing yet further damage to other internal components. This sort of computer build should not be intended for commercial shipping, as it is impossible to prevent basic shock and vibration while in transit. All carriers clearly explain this in their websites.

I can't validate without research much beyond the past 20 years, but both UPS as well as FedEx have always accommodated up to 150 lbs. Over that, they utilize their freight service. No transit service accommodates package labeling such as 'PERISHABLE', 'FRAGILE', 'THIS END UP', etc. Shipments are handled the same regardless of markings and are protected only as well as they were packaged by the sender. If that packaging meets carrier guidelines, carrier caused damage virtually never occurs.

Who told you to take the shipment to a UPS Store? $900 of value is irrelevant and they can insure any amount. Over $1000 requires a driver's signature. If you were not paying for the return shipment, then the person that shipped the computer to you would have to open a claim and request that it be picked up for return. It appears it is also safe to assume that you were given incorrect information regarding the computer return, and it did not come from the shipping store. The business/individual that you purchased the computer from needs to correspond directly with the carrier for any claim and return arrangements.

Was the crate damaged? Was the computer case damaged? How were the mother board and graphics card mounted? Just for kicks, why not crate the identical repaired computer and ship it FedEx next time. The shipping is identical and the people there are also human beings. It is very possible that the internals of that computer need proper commercial assembly to be handled more than just setting it under your desk.

When you purchase something that is to be shipped, the seller is usually responsible for getting the product to you in good condition.

The manufacturer is either not packing their products very well or they are choosing the wrong shipper.  From what I understand this is a heavy item in a large wooden crate.  This means it is always going to placed at the bottom of the stack and, as you have seen, it will be used as a stepping stone.

UPS used to not accept packages of over 50 lbs., but I guess that has changed.  Still, the manufacturer has chosen to ship by a carrier not accustomed to handling large items.  

I am also a firm believer that the longer an item is in the hands of a shipper the more likely it is to get damaged.  Therefore, faster is safer.

You and the manufacturer need to get together and find a better means of shipping this computer.  Air freight comes to mind, but you may be able to find other choices.