Surf shop catches the UPS wave when previous carrier wipes out

How UPS helped a surfboard brand ship fragile, high-value items with confidence
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What’s the story: Surftech, a California-based surfboard maker, knows that every shipment carries more than just product – it carries their whole reputation. When it came to shipping, they needed a partner who understood the care and precision behind their boards.

For a while, they worked with a UPS competitor, but rising costs and rigid service left them boxed in. That’s when we got involved – starting with a friendly chat that opened the door.

“They were shipping surfboards worth a lot of money,” said UPS Account Executive Jeff Yamaguchi. “That’s not just freight, it’s their brand, their livelihood. They needed a solution that protected that.”

Feel the current: Jeff and the UPS team took time to listen. What mattered most to Surftech wasn’t speed – it was protection, flexibility and peace of mind.

“Once we understood their priorities, we could tailor something that actually worked for them,” Jeff explained.

A man is seen paddling on a Surftech board in calm coastal waters. The setting features a sunny day with reflections on the water and a scenic shoreline with houses and palm trees in the background. The Surftech logo is clearly visible on the board and in the overlay text.

Shape the board for the wave: The solution came in the form of a customized shipping bundle that included enhanced claims support through UPS Capital. Thanks to faster help and special attention, Surftech felt confident their shipments – and their reputation – were being well taken care of.

“Being able to say how much each shipment is worth made a big difference,” Jeff added. “With UPS Capital, they know that if they need our help with something, they’re not stuck waiting. That gave them peace of mind – and that’s what sealed the deal.”

Today, Surftech operates with a logistics partner that truly understands them.

“We’re not just checking boxes,” Jeff said. “We’re solving real problems for real businesses. That’s what makes this work meaningful.”

🛡️ Featured Service – UPS Capital: For businesses shipping fragile or high-value goods, UPS Capital offers enhanced claims support and insured shipping options that help protect what matters most. Learn more.

UPS understands your business faces a host of hurdles when it comes to shipping big, heavy and bulky items. Our customizable offerings can tackle any complex challenge – Learn more.

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