Receiving equipment

Freight Delivery Checklist

Use the order-specific carrier instructions together with this preparation and inspection checklist.

Plan before arrival. Do not assume that a carrier will provide an appointment, enter a restricted site, or unload the equipment. Confirm those details in the accepted order and carrier communication.

Before delivery

  1. Review the shipment description, piece count, dimensions, weight, service level, and carrier contact shown in the order documents.
  2. Check road width, turns, gates, overhead clearance, surface condition, parking rules, and site restrictions for the expected vehicle.
  3. Arrange any required recipient, dock, lift, crane, forklift, ramp, or qualified unloading personnel identified for the shipment.
  4. Keep the order number and a camera available, and make sure the person receiving freight is authorized to inspect and annotate the delivery receipt.

At delivery

  1. Match the shipment and piece count to the delivery paperwork before signing.
  2. Inspect packaging and visible equipment from every accessible side for punctures, crushing, shifting, missing pieces, or other damage.
  3. Photograph the shipment, labels, packaging, damage, and delivery receipt before unloading or altering the packaging.
  4. Write specific damage or shortage details on the delivery receipt. Do not sign a clear receipt when visible damage or missing pieces exist.
  5. For severe visible damage, pause acceptance and follow the order-specific contact and carrier instructions before deciding whether to refuse the affected freight.

After delivery

  1. Preserve the packaging, pallet, labels, delivery receipt, photos, and related communications while an issue is reviewed.
  2. Check for concealed damage and shortages promptly, without operating equipment that may be unsafe.
  3. Report the facts through the contact route in the accepted order and include the order number, photos, piece count, and delivery-receipt notation.
  4. Follow any carrier or supplier deadline communicated for the shipment. Reporting promptly helps preserve available claim options and does not waive rights that cannot lawfully be waived.

Safety during receiving

Keep bystanders clear, use equipment rated for the load, and follow the carrier, manufacturer, site, and qualified operator instructions. Stop if the shipment is unstable or the unloading plan does not match actual conditions.