[member=65661]Wooden nickel[/member]
If this is a unique occurance with deliveries at your location, I would just write it off. If it happens regularly, it might be an issue with your local UPS branch, and yes, then I would avoid it altogether and either use a different shipper if the retailer provides that option or shop local. Adding to this issue is that Festool doesn't really pack the contents into these containers with the abuse of shipping carriers in mind, meaning loose parts are common. In most cases, it only results in superficial scratches, but extremely rough handling could create an opportunity for more extensive damage. This is something that bugs me considering what we pay for these tools, even if it only creates cosmetic issues. But I don't have a local option with inventory that's open weeknights or weekends, so I deal with it.
Regarding the shipping practices of online vendors, some are better than others. ToolNut is above average in my view, Amazon is quite possibly the worst. Bob Marino is a standout in this area. Every package is packed as if it contained glass. The better vendors will also add a little bubble wrap inside the systainer to fill the voids that allow loose parts to rattle around. And the good vendors will also deal with the unexpected without more delay than necessary. But as you know, if you have a local store, nothing beats a 10 minute drive to get something ironed out.
As to your comments about being "small fish"...again, with the good vendors, it doesn't matter. They understand two things, first that hobbiests do spend an awful lot of money. Second, that someone starting out stands a good chance of spending more over the coming years as they get deeper into woodworking. I would guess this market is crucial to Festool's growth, even more than people in the trades. So if the amount you are projected to spend is a motivating factor, it works in your favor. But honestly, I don't think it matters when you're dealing with a good vendor.
Anyway, hopefully all this is quickly resolved and you can go back to making sawdust. Welcome to the FOG!