Match every part to its order
Give each supplier and room or project area a reference. Separate the purchased item count from the shipping-package count, and identify sets that arrive in several cartons. Keep fittings and accessories linked to their main items so the receiving list is useful at installation.
Review long, fragile and bulky packages
Request dimensions and photos after packing, including protruding parts. Identify glass, stone, finished surfaces and non-stackable items. Ask suppliers how corners, edges and loose parts are protected, then agree any additional warehouse packing before work starts.
Choose when the combined order should leave
List the ready date and missing items for each supplier. Decide whether to wait for the complete project order or consider a separate urgent batch. Record which packages are approved for dispatch and update the register if a replacement item arrives later.
Prepare the site handover
Describe vehicle access, receiving hours, available unloading equipment and storage space. State whether the quote ends at a warehouse, shop or project site. Internal movement, installation and removal of packing should be discussed as separate tasks if needed.
A situation to plan for
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE
A table top and its legs are packed in different cartons. Link both packages to the same set and record any hardware packed separately. If one package is delayed or damaged, the receiving team needs to know which set is affected before approving a partial delivery or a replacement request.
Prepare your product brief
Add these product details to your shipment outline. Mark anything still unknown and identify who can confirm it.
- Set-to-package map
- List which cartons belong to each furniture set or project area. Keep fittings, spare panels and accessories identifiable rather than counting only finished items.
- Fragile surfaces and packing
- Provide photos of the current packaging and identify surfaces or edges needing protection. Ask the supplier for permitted handling and stacking instructions.
- Longest and heaviest packages
- Send packed measurements per piece, including protrusions or supports. Highlight packages that need an access or unloading review before choosing the delivery vehicle.
- Final handover point
- Describe whether the goods stop at a warehouse, shop entrance or project loading area. Discuss indoor movement, assembly and packaging removal as separate tasks when needed.
NEXT STEP
Sourcing & consolidation
Bring orders from multiple Chinese suppliers together in Guangzhou before international dispatch.
