You must check the conditions of your goods before you sign for them. Occasionally goods may arrive with damage to the goods. If this happens you must not sign for the goods. You must insist on having a survey done by the airline or responsible agent. It is the airline/agents duty to trace your shipment. You must also quote the airway bill number at all times. If a claim is necessary, it is important you keep a copy of all correspondence. If you must lodge a claim against the airline, this should be done without delay, and it should be done at the destination.