A delivery is not complete merely because cartons reach the property. A receiving log records what arrived, visible condition, discrepancies, and the next action under the supplier’s process. Prepare it before dispatch so the receiving person knows which information matters and who can resolve an issue.
Make the decision from the actual setup
List expected items by purchase identifier, model, finish, quantity, and carton count where known. Confirm the receiving location and responsible person. Read the vendor’s inspection, return, and damage-reporting instructions in advance; do not assume every seller uses the same deadline or process. Keep packaging or evidence according to those instructions until the issue is resolved.
Photograph the relevant condition and labels without exposing private delivery or billing details in public files. Compare contents to the order and note missing components. Do not conceal damage through installation or improvised repair while a supplier response is pending. Suspected unsafe items remain out of service until properly resolved.
Worked planning example
Illustrative scenario: Examples, prices, quantities, and timing assumptions below are hypothetical; use actual product information and local quotes for your property.
Hypothetical log: three dining chairs arrive as expected, while the fourth carton contains the wrong finish. The receiving person records the order identifier, photos, carton label, and discrepancy, then contacts the assigned buyer through the project process. The buyer follows the seller’s stated reporting procedure. The room’s completion status remains open until the correct usable quantity is confirmed, rather than counting the mistaken item as installed seating.
Practical checklist
- Prepare the expected item, finish, quantity, and shipment list before dispatch and assign the receiving person.
- Read the seller’s actual inspection, damage-reporting, return, and packaging instructions for the purchase.
- Record received counts, labels, visible condition, missing parts, and order discrepancies with useful photographs.
- Assign each issue an owner, the vendor’s stated deadline, and a follow-up action.
- Verify the resolved item and update installed inventory before closing the receiving record.
Carry the decision into the handover
Reconcile the log with invoices and final inventory during handover. Keep confidential order details in appropriate project records. If a product is returned or substituted, link the new item to the original issue so costs and delays remain understandable. This process creates evidence for the team; it does not determine legal rights or replace the vendor’s specific terms.
Sources and product instructions
The sources below provide technical background. The planning examples and checklists are original. Use instructions for the exact installed product and obtain qualified review for relevant technical requirements.
Source links reviewed October 6, 2026.
Plan your rental with a clear brief
Bring your room measurements, priorities, and project questions to a conversation about your property.
Book a design conversation