Anyone ever have claims for damage with UPS?

That's right and if it is not 2" or more of foam, they will not pay. They will gladly insure them, but even if it is factory packaging, they can refuse paying. They destroyed 3 pairs of speakers I had sent using them and now use Fed Ex with great results. Never send speakers with UPS or you will be sorry :-(

Update on my earlier response regarding sad experiences w/FedEx Ground: after their initial denial of my claim on the damaged PSB 5T speaker, I called and spoke with the guy who authored the denial letter and told him I took photos of the damaged box and speaker. Note: ALWAYS do this! He asked me to email them to him, and 2 days later he emails me back saying he's paying the full amount of the insurance and refunding the shipping costs! So--ALWAYS protest and dispute their claim denials, persevere, and never get nasty over the phone. I should have my refund before the year is out!! Good luck to you too.

I have had everything between taking them to small claims court and having a very considerate person there save my butt after Jim Anthon stold my AN DAC 4 Sig. I find nothing to predict what will happen. I also must say I find Airborne and the USPS worse and FedEx no better. Always keep original boxes and double box if those are worthless, such as from Marantz, duplicate the disassembly needed, address very clearly, and cross your fingers.

All these stories make you wonder how manufacturers actually get product to dealers.

Anyone who ships items UPS does so at their own risk. You can be assured that they will drop or throw the box (possibly more then once) from at least waist height. I recommend packing items very carefully and if possible double boxing. If you don't have the original packing material use plently of crumbled up newspaper. Also insure the item for it's full value; it only costs 35 cents for every $100 over the first $100.