CLICK TO CALL  ▶ 800-948-7780 ◀  for an Exclusive Low-Price Quote and Product Guidance with Mechanical Engineering Expertise

CLICK TO CALL  ▶ 800-948-7780 ◀  for an Exclusive Low-Price Quote and Product Guidance with Mechanical Engineering Expertise

Cargo Delivery Inspection Guide

Cardboard boxes on a pallet with a pallet jack unloading

Important: Inspect Before Signing

You have the right to inspect your delivery before signing. Once you sign, you accept the shipment "as delivered."

Before the Driver Arrives

Prepare Your Space

  • Clear a path from delivery truck to final location
  • Ensure adequate lighting for inspection
  • Have tools ready (box cutter, snips, flashlight)
  • Review your order details

Gather Information

  • Have your order number ready
  • Keep a smartphone/camera for photos
  • Grab a pen for notes
  • Know expected delivery contents

During Delivery - Step by Step

1

Initial Visual Inspection

Before the driver unloads, observe the pallet while still on the truck. Look for obvious damage, tilting, or crushed areas.

2

Pallet Placement & Safety

Ensure the driver places the pallet on level ground away from the truck. Maintain safe distance during liftgate operation.

3

Detailed Inspection

Walk around the entire pallet. Check all sides, top, and bottom edges. Take photos of any concerns.

4

Documentation & Signing

Note any damage on the delivery receipt before signing. If damage is found, follow the damage reporting procedures below.

What to Look For During Inspection

Pallet Condition

  • Broken or cracked boards
  • Protruding nails or screws
  • Loose or shifted strapping
  • Pallet leaning or unstable

Crated Items

  • Cracked or split crate sides
  • Missing or loose crate hardware
  • Holes or punctures in crate
  • Crate separation from pallet

Uncrated Items

  • Visible dents or scratches
  • Torn or damaged packaging
  • Loose components or parts
  • Shifted or tilted positioning

Pro Tips

Look underneath: Check the bottom of the pallet for damage that might not be visible from the sides.

Use your flashlight: Inspect dark areas and shadowed spots where damage might be hidden.

Test stability: Gently check if the item moves or shifts when lightly touched (don't push hard).

Compare to order: Verify the item matches your order specifications and expectations.

If You Suspect Damage

Take Action Immediately - Don't Sign Yet!

Once you sign the delivery receipt, it becomes much more difficult to file a damage claim.

Immediate Steps:

  1. 1 Stop the process - Inform the driver you need to inspect for damage
  2. 2 Take photos - Document all damage from multiple angles
  3. 3 Call Inventive Garage - Contact us immediately at 1-800-948-7780
  4. 4 Note on receipt - Write specific damage details on the delivery receipt
  5. 5 Get driver acknowledgment - Ensure the driver also notes the damage

What to Document:

  • Photos of damaged areas (close-up and overview)
  • Measurements of damage when possible
  • Written description of damage location and type
  • Driver's name and truck/company information
  • Time and date of delivery
  • Tracking number and order information

If You Find Damage After the Driver Has Left

Inspecting before you sign is your most important responsibility. Once you sign without noting damage, it becomes much harder to hold anyone responsible for it. However, if you do find damage after delivery, please tell us within 48 hours of receipt. Call or text us at 1-800-948-7780.

Before you do anything else, photograph the damage and the packaging exactly as you found it, and keep all packaging materials and the item itself until we have spoken. Carriers often require the goods and packaging to be available for inspection before anything is settled.

Important Reminders

Your Rights

You have the right to thoroughly inspect your delivery before accepting it. Take your time.

Driver Cooperation

Most drivers understand the inspection process. They should allow reasonable time for inspection.

Signature Means Acceptance

Your signature indicates you accept the shipment in its current condition. Inspect first, then sign.

When in Doubt, Call Us

If you're unsure about anything during delivery, call us immediately at 1-800-948-7780.

NOTE: All freight deliveries are "curbside." Final placement is at the discretion of the delivery driver. Refusal of an undamaged shipment will constitute a "Change of Mind" return and be subject to both-ways freight costs plus a restocking fee.


Inventive Garage Support

Call or Text: 1-800-948-7780
Email: OrderHelp@InventiveGarage.com

Available during business hours for immediate assistance with delivery issues

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