When a tile container arrives, check the seal and the outside of the box first, then photograph every stage of unloading, count the boxes against the packing list and record any damage before you sign the delivery note. After that, open sample boxes to check shade, size and grade.
What you record in the first hour decides whether you can claim later. Insurers, carriers and factories all ask for the same evidence: photos, counts and notes made at the time.
Before the doors open
- Check that the seal number matches the bill of lading and that the seal is intact.
- Photograph the seal, the container number and all four sides of the box.
- Look for dents, holes, water stains or signs of repair on the container.
- If the seal is broken or different, do not open the doors; call your broker and insurer first.
During unloading
Photograph the load as soon as the doors open, before anyone touches it. A shifted or collapsed load tells you the damage happened in transit, not in your warehouse.
- Photograph each row of pallets as it comes out.
- Note any broken pallets, crushed boxes, loose bracing or wet cartons.
- Count pallets and boxes against the packing list, by design, size, shade and batch.
- Set damaged boxes aside, unopened if possible, for the surveyor to see.
- Write any damage or shortage on the delivery receipt before you sign it.
Quality checks after unloading
Once the load is counted, open a sample of boxes from different pallets. Lay tiles out side by side in good light and check the points your order specified:
- Shade and batch numbers match the box labels and the packing list, with one shade and one calibre per design.
- Size and calibre are consistent across boxes.
- Surface defects, chips and warpage are within the grade you ordered.
- Box markings, your private label and the number of tiles per box match the order.
Mixed shades or grades
If you find mixed shades or grades, stop installing and record it. One shade and one calibre per shipment explains how to prevent this next time.
If something is wrong
Notify the carrier, your insurer and the factory in writing straight away. Many contracts and policies have short notice periods. Ask your insurer whether it wants a surveyor to attend before you move the damaged goods. The full process is in how to make a breakage claim.
Your best evidence from the Indian side is the loading record. If photos show the load was sound and well braced when the container was sealed, the damage happened later. Our services include photographed loading supervision for this reason.
Next step
We give you a loading report with photos, counts and seal numbers to compare against what arrives. To set up inspection and loading checks for your next order, book a free sourcing review.