When receiving a large shipment of laptops (like over 100 units), do you typically audit all the serial numbers on the packing slip, or do a percentage spot check? If you only spot check, what percentage makes you feel confident that everything is accurate? This is assuming the shipment comes from a reputable vendor like Dell or Lenovo, not a third-party broker.
5 Answers
I've turned into a full-blown auditor after a few mishaps. I used to just do spot checks, but one time I ended up with 350 iPads, accepted the delivery without double-checking since I was busy, and learned that 20 were sent elsewhere. Always better to be safe than sorry—check before the delivery team leaves!
Yeah! Learn from the past, right? Now, if it’s a big order, I count everything, no exceptions.
Around here, we’ve learned to check everything post-delivery—not just synching with packing slips, but scanning boxes into our system to avoid disappearing items later. Sadly, we learned this the hard way when inventory went missing.
We mainly ensure that the number of boxes matches the packing slip and the purchase order. I don’t worry about auditing serial numbers during delivery unless something feels off. My past experience handling over 75k tech assets has taught me to keep it simple, especially since our team is small.
I really think you should check every shipment, if possible. Getting issues sorted out right after delivery is way easier. If you notice a problem, you can quickly submit a claim and get replacements without hassle. Waiting 90 days to notice something missing usually won’t work out in your favor. Just verify the number of boxes matches the packing slip. Ideally, you’d check each unit, but at least start with the count.
For sure! It’s a lesson many learn the hard way. I've had to hunt down missing items after accepting deliveries. It involves way too much frustrating detective work!
Agreed! I count everything before signing off on a delivery. It saves a lot of headaches later.
If I notice any damage to the pallets or packaging, I’ll audit everything carefully. If not, I’ll generally just spot check. A few weeks ago, we caught vendors claiming shortages after we did a full audit and had video evidence from the day of delivery proving otherwise. My team was beyond frustrated with the unnecessary back and forth.
That sounds frustrating! Video evidence is the way to go. It holds everyone accountable.
Same here. I recall a time I trusted without verifying right away and it cost us big time. Now I’m a stickler for counting every item!