To verify counts before a jewellery shipment, check that every carton holds the number of inner packs the packing list says, fully count the pieces in a sample of those packs, and weigh pieces, packs and sealed cartons. Counts tell you the order is complete; weights let you check it quickly and prove later if anything went missing.
Short counts are one of the most common jewellery complaints, and they are almost always cheaper to find in Rajkot than in your warehouse.
Pack in a countable way
Counting starts with packing. Ask the maker to pack a fixed number of pieces per inner bag or box, for example 12 or 24 of one design, a fixed number of inner packs per carton, and one design per carton where possible. Mixed cartons are fine for assortments, but then the packing list must show the contents of each carton by design.
The counting method
- Count cartons against the packing list and check that carton numbers run without gaps.
- Open a random selection of cartons and count the inner packs in each.
- In those cartons, open a random selection of inner packs and count every piece.
- Check that the design, colour and size in each pack match its label.
- If any count is short, widen the check: count all packs in that carton, then more cartons.
Using weights
Weigh ten pieces of each design on a jewellery scale to get an average weight per piece. Then weigh full inner packs: a pack that is noticeably lighter than its count suggests is probably short. Small differences are normal because hand-finished pieces vary, so treat weight as a screening tool and confirm any outlier by counting.
Weigh each sealed carton and write the weight on the packing list. Carriers and your own receiving team can then compare weights at each handover, and a light carton is evidence for an insurance claim.
If you buy by weight, check the net metal weight of a sample of pieces against the quoted weight too, since a lighter piece may mean thinner metal.
Records to keep
Keep a count sheet with the cartons and packs checked, any shortages found and corrected, and the carton weights, plus photos of open and sealed cartons. Attach it to the inspection report and the shipment file.
What this means for a buyer
Put pack sizes, carton contents and weights in the purchase order so counting is possible; see what a jewellery purchase order should include. Creston & Co works for buyers only, for a fixed fee agreed in writing. We count, weigh and seal your cartons in Rajkot and send the records with the inspection report. Ask for a free sourcing review.