Is it time to replace your race suit? Let’s get you track-ready. Open the seat box without cutting the seat
Photograph the carton first. Then open it slowly from the taped edges, keeping every blade away from the cardboard surface. Inspect the seat and packaging before it reaches the car or workshop floor.
The upholstery or bubble wrap can sit just under the cardboard. A knife can pass through the box, wrapping and seat cover in one movement. Damage caused during unpacking is not courier damage.
Before you open it
Create a record while the carton is still closed.
Check the label
Confirm the parcel is yours and photograph the shipping label and order reference.
Photograph every side
Include the top, base, corners and seams. Step back for one full-carton photo as well.
Record visible damage
Take close photographs of punctures, crushed areas, water marks or torn tape before moving the box far.
Move it carefully
Use two people for a large seat carton. Keep it upright as marked and place it on a clean, dry surface.
Unpack it safely
Work from the tape, not through the cardboard.
Do
- Peel tape by hand where possible
- Use a blunt parcel tool at the outer edge
- Lift each layer instead of slicing it
- Keep labels and loose hardware together
- Photograph how the seat was packed
Do not
- Push a knife down the centre seam
- Cut bubble wrap against the upholstery
- Drag the seat across the carton staples
- Pull hard on a bolster or recliner handle
- Throw the packaging away
Some seats arrive with fittings taped inside or placed beneath the shell. Remove the seat slowly and check each packing layer before the carton is flattened.
Inspect the seat before sitting in it
Clean hands, good light and no tools nearby.
| Check | Look for | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Trim | Cuts, scuffs, marks, loose stitching or colour mismatch | Wide photo and close-up |
| Shell or frame | Cracks, bends, chips or damaged mounting points | Both sides and underside |
| Controls | Recliner handles, sliders or adjustment parts supplied with the seat | Part and packaging position |
| Specification | Model, colour, handed side and approval label | Product label in full |
| Loose parts | Bolts, cushions, instructions or ordered accessories | Everything laid out together |
Side mounts, runners and vehicle frames are often separate products. Compare the box with the product listing and invoice before reporting an expected extra as missing.
Report damage before fitting anything
Keep the carton exactly as evidence.
Stop using the item
Do not sit in it, bolt it down, remove labels or attempt a repair.
Contact us immediately
Send the five-digit invoice number, delivery date and a short description.
Attach the full photo set
Include the closed box, shipping label, internal packaging and product damage.
Wait for collection instructions
Keep every insert and bag. Repack only when we tell you how the claim will be handled.
Transit damage must be reported within five days of delivery. The full process is on the returns and refunds page. This guide explains how to preserve the evidence; it does not replace the terms.
Common questions
Can I use a knife to open a seat box?▾
Avoid a blade anywhere near the top, sides or inner wrapping. Open tape at the outer edge with a blunt parcel tool or peel it back by hand. Seat fabric can sit directly beneath the cardboard.
What should I photograph before opening?▾
Take the shipping label, every side of the box and any dent, puncture, wet area or crushed corner. Keep the photographs at their original size.
How quickly must transit damage be reported?▾
GSM asks for damage to be reported within five days of delivery. Contact us as soon as you see it, keep all packaging and do not fit or use the seat.
Should I refuse a damaged box?▾
If the courier gives you that option, record the damage with them and contact us. Many deliveries are left without a signature, so photographs taken before opening are the most useful evidence.
What should be in the box?▾
That depends on the product listing. A seat may be supplied without runners, side mounts or a vehicle frame. Check the packing list and product page before treating separate fitting hardware as missing.
Can I sit in the seat before checking it?▾
Inspect it first. For a return or damage claim the product needs to remain unused and unmarked. Do not bolt it down, remove labels or place it on a dirty workshop floor.
What if I cut the upholstery while opening it?▾
Stop and photograph it. Damage caused while unpacking is not transit damage and may not be covered by warranty or return rights. Contact us to discuss repair options.
Can I throw the packaging away after inspection?▾
Keep it until you have confirmed the seat, trim, handed side and supplied parts are correct. Original packaging is needed if a collection or return is agreed.
Do not fit it
Send the order number and photographs of the carton, label, packaging and seat. Keep everything until the claim is agreed.
Report a problemCall 0115 9893488Returns policy