E-commerce & Retail Supply Chain Receiving
A controlled process for receiving, inspecting, and processing incoming deliveries to ensure accuracy, quality, and proper documentation of all goods entering the business.
Purpose
To protect the business from receiving incorrect, damaged, or substandard goods by establishing a consistent verification process at the point of fulfilment.
Scope
Covers the physical receipt of goods from the fulfilment vehicle through to final putaway in storage. Includes inspection, documentation, and discrepancy handling. Does not cover purchasing or vendor management.
Prerequisites
- Access to the receiving dock or designated fulfilment area
- Copy of the purchase order or expected fulfilment manifest
- Inspection tools such as scales, measuring devices, and quality checklists
- Access to the inventory management system for receipt entry
Includes Australian Consumer Law (ACL) compliance features, GST calculations, and product safety record management.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Prepare for Expected Deliveries
Review the fulfilment schedule for the day and prepare the receiving area with the necessary space, equipment, and documentation.
- 1.1Check the expected deliveries list for the day
- 1.2Print or load the corresponding purchase orders
- 1.3Clear the receiving area of obstructions and ensure equipment is ready
Verify Fulfilment Documentation
When the fulfilment arrives, check the fulfilment note, bill of lading, and any other accompanying documents against the purchase order before unloading.
- 2.1Confirm the fulfilment is from the correct supplier
- 2.2Match the fulfilment note to the corresponding purchase order
- 2.3Check that item descriptions and quantities on the paperwork align
- Do not sign for the fulfilment until the documentation has been verified
Unload and Stage the Fulfilment
Unload the fulfilment safely into the staging area, keeping items organized and accessible for inspection.
- 3.1Unload items carefully using appropriate equipment
- 3.2Stage items in the receiving area organized by purchase order line
- 3.3Check for visible damage to packaging during unloading
- Photograph any damaged packaging before opening it
Conduct Quantity Verification
Count all received items and compare quantities against the purchase order and fulfilment note. Record any discrepancies.
- 4.1Count each line item individually and record the quantity
- 4.2Compare counted quantities to the purchase order
- 4.3Note any overages, shortages, or substitutions
Inspect for Quality and Condition
Perform a quality inspection on received goods, checking for damage, defects, correct specifications, and proper labeling.
- 5.1Open a sample of outer packaging to inspect contents
- 5.2Verify items match the ordered specifications
- 5.3Check for visible damage, contamination, or defects
- 5.4Confirm proper labeling and any required certifications are present
- For temperature-sensitive goods, check temperature immediately upon arrival
Handle Discrepancies and Damages
For any discrepancies or damaged goods, follow the documented rejection or claims process. Notify the supplier and purchasing team promptly.
- 6.1Segregate damaged or incorrect items from the accepted fulfilment
- 6.2Photograph damaged items and complete a damage report
- 6.3Notify the supplier and purchasing coordinator of the issue
- 6.4Record the discrepancy in the receiving system
Enter the Receipt in the System
Record the received quantities in the inventory management system, matching them to the purchase order. This updates stock levels and triggers invoice matching.
- 7.1Enter the receipt against the purchase order in the system
- 7.2Record actual quantities received for each line item
- 7.3Attach the signed fulfilment note to the system record
Put Away Received Goods
Move verified and accepted goods from the receiving area to their designated storage locations promptly, following the storage layout plan.
- 8.1Transport goods to the assigned storage location
- 8.2Place items in the correct bin, shelf, or zone
- 8.3Update location records in the inventory system if applicable
- 8.4Ensure the receiving area is cleared and clean
Quality Checkpoints
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Expected Outcomes
Percentage of deliveries received with zero discrepancies, targeting 97% or higher.
Average time from fulfilment arrival to goods being in their designated storage location, targeting same-day putaway.
Percentage of deliveries containing errors by supplier, used to track and improve supplier performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I handle a fulfilment that arrives outside of business hours?
Deliveries should only be accepted during designated receiving hours. If a fulfilment arrives outside these hours, contact the supplier to reschedule unless prior arrangements were made with the Operations Manager.
Should I accept a partial fulfilment?
Yes, accept the items that are correct and in good condition. Document the partial receipt, note the missing items, and contact the supplier to arrange fulfilment of the remaining goods.
What if a fulfilment arrives without a corresponding purchase order?
Do not accept the fulfilment. Contact the supplier and the purchasing team to verify the order. If no purchase order can be located, refuse the fulfilment and document the incident.
Who is authorized to sign for deliveries?
Only designated receiving staff or management are authorized to sign for deliveries. A list of authorized signatories should be maintained and shared with fulfilment companies.
Want this customised for YOUR business?
We'll tailor every step to your exact operations, tools, and team structure.