Damaged goods receiving process

Damaged inbound stock should be identified, isolated and resolved without contaminating available inventory.

3 min read · Updated 30 July 2026

Problem

Damaged products can be picked or supplier claims can fail when evidence and quantities are not captured at receipt.

Solution

Record the damage immediately, quarantine affected stock, retain evidence and resolve it through an authorised disposition.

Stop normal receipt

Do not place visibly damaged stock into an available location.

Capture evidence

Record product, quantity, packaging condition, delivery reference, photographs and notes.

Isolate inventory

Move affected units to a quarantine or quality-hold status and location.

Resolve disposition

Authorise return, rework, disposal, acceptance or supplier claim, then update the stock record.

Frequently asked questions

What does damaged goods receiving process cover?

Damaged inbound stock should be identified, isolated and resolved without contaminating available inventory.

Based on this article and adjusted to avoid guides already viewed in this session.

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ASN vs standard receiving

An advance shipping notice provides expected shipment detail before arrival, while standard receiving starts from the delivery or purchase order at the dock.

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Warehouse quality hold process

A quality hold prevents uncertain or non-conforming stock from being allocated until an authorised decision is recorded.

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