Given the extent of damage, they’ll likely put everything into a new cabinet, test and pack up like new. Haven’t had it happen to me, but seen a few similar resolutions posted here. They definitely won’t spend a bunch of labor hours trying if fix the cabinet. Only concern I’d have is how long it will take - and making sure they use different carrier. Probably goes without saying, but don’t worry about making the driver wait while you cut a side off of box to fully inspect.

I'm glad your dealer is sympathetic and helpful.

But I wish you had a different experience.

The best way to buy pinballs for most people is not NIB.

Bad things can happen.

The best way would be to buy from a local dealer who brings you a working game that has already had the NIB issues repaired, who installs the pinball properly in your house, and provides local after-the-sale service and support.

A lot of people don't have that option in their area, and you might be one of those people who just couldn't get that level of support.

But I'm still sorry you had this experience with a NIB.

Work with your dealer. This is going to take some time to get resolved, but I'm confident you'll get a good machine in the end.

FedEX really is the worst for shipping pinball. Probably most things, come to think of it. I can only imagine FedEX is just so much more cheaper than another other freight company for Stern to deal with. The FedEX horror stories NEVER end.
Bummer of a story, man.