Well, yesterday (Wednesday, January 4th) was supposed to be an exciting day.....the arrival of my empennage kit. However, FedEx had other plans and show up for delivery with a completely destroyed shipping crate. The banding straps around the crate were broken, the top of the crate was totally detached and just sitting freely on top, the bottom was about halfway separated from the side walls, and all four side walls were damaged. I could also see several parts within the crate contained obvious damage. Additionally, due to the crate damage, I wouldn't be able to guarantee all the items were still inside. So, based on the extensive damage to the shipping crate, and after consultation with Van's Aircraft, I refused the shipment from FedEx. I spoke with Kim at Van's and she was very sympathetic and helpful. She advised they would handle the claim with FedEx. I now play the waiting game until a new empennage arrives.
