Deformation

In foreign trade terminology, 'Deformation' typically refers to an unintended change in the physical shape of goods during transportation, loading/unloading, or storage, caused by external forces, temperature, humidity, or other factors. This term is commonly found in quality clauses, inspection clauses, and insurance claims, and is especially applicable to metal products, plastic products, precision instruments, textiles, and other easily deformable goods. Usage scenarios include: the buyer rejecting goods or claiming compensation on the grounds of deformation; the seller stipulating an allowable range of deformation in the contract; and insurance companies determining whether it falls under covered risks. Notes: Deformation may be original damage (existing before shipment) or shipping damage (caused during transport), and pre-shipment inspection certificates (such as SGS) are needed to distinguish liability; if deformation does not affect functionality, it may not constitute a fundamental breach. Differences from other terms: Unlike 'Damage,' deformation emphasizes a change in shape rather than breakage; unlike 'Defect,' deformation may be caused by external factors rather than production quality issues. Foreign trade practitioners should clearly specify deformation standards, inspection methods, and liability attribution in the contract, and insure against corresponding risks (such as All Risks).