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Furniture DistributorThese businesses sell furniture to retailers for use in residences, businesses, public buildings and public parks. Furniture may include sofas, tables, chairs, beds, mattresses, chests and bookcases. Related items, such as mirrors, artwork, bedroom linens and kitchen linens may also be distributed. These wholesalers may sell furniture of a particular variety, such as children's, or they may offer a more general selection. General Liability Insurance for Furniture Distributors – In the event that customers are allowed on location to pick up furniture, premises liability risks are increased. Customers should be restricted from hazardous areas and only be permitted in specified areas that are visibly marked. Shipping and receiving areas should be hazard free in order to reduce injury to customers and outside deliverers. Furniture distributors should ensure the quality of the products sold in order to prevent products liability claims resulting from customer injury. Distributors should verify that furniture manufacturers are adequately insured with product liability coverage. Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Furniture Distributors – Furniture is bulky and often heavy. Employees of furniture distribution centers may be injured when delivering, loading or unloading furniture. Employees should be in good physical condition and be taught to properly lift and handle furniture products. Personal safety equipment, such as steel toe boots and back braces, should be used. Dockworkers should be trained to properly secure vehicles to prevent furniture from shifting and falling, which could result in merchandise toppling claims. Business Auto Insurance for Furniture Distributors – Auto liability risks are high for furniture distributors due to the heavy gross vehicle weight of the trucks and vans. Commercial drivers licenses may be required of delivery drivers in addition to mandatory drug testing. Outside salesmen can also be a source of auto liability. Acceptable driving history is required and frequent MVR checks are necessary in order to reduce the risk of auto liability. Documentation of regular maintenance is required of all vehicles, which should be in working order at all times. Property Insurance for Furniture Distributors – Upholstered furniture and furniture made of wood are susceptible to damage by fire. A total loss can result when fabric is exposed to smoke, fire, or water. Furniture distributors should store furniture in sections or aisles that are spaced apart in order to prevent the rapid spread of a fire. The existence of fire walls and appropriate fire suppression systems will help prevent a total loss. Fire risks will also be reduced if warehouses are less than 20 years old. If buildings are over 20 years of age, then the electrical and wiring systems should be updated to reduce fire risks. Theft risks are greater when expensive furniture items are sold. Alarms, security systems and cameras should be in place to reduce theft exposures. Furniture may be scratched or broken while being transported and, therefore, should be properly padded to reduce inland marine risks. Crime Insurance for Furniture Distributors – Employee theft is a concern at furniture distribution locations. Higher valued furniture results in higher crime risks. One of the most important controls to prevent embezzlement or theft of inventory by dishonest employees is to check references and criminal backgrounds of prospective employees in addition to using detailed applications. Purchasing orders should be placed by employees who are not in charge of inventory controls. Security systems, cameras, and alarms should also deter dishonest employees.
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