Field Notes
What to check before goods leave the factory
A useful checklist is specific enough to decide what passes, what fails and what needs correction. Build it from the purchase order, approved sample, drawings and destination requirements.
Request a pre-shipment inspection
Quantity and assortment
Review quantity and assortment against the current transaction or market, not a generic assumption. Record the source, date and unresolved point so another person can follow the decision trail.
Record the source, owner and review date for quantity and assortment. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Workmanship
Workmanship should produce evidence that can be checked independently. Keep the relevant company record, purchase document, specification or market source with the project file.
Record the source, owner and review date for workmanship. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Dimensions and weight
For dimensions and weight, write down what would change the decision before collecting more information. This prevents a long checklist from hiding the few items that carry the greatest risk.
Record the source, owner and review date for dimensions and weight. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Function and safety checks
Treat function and safety checks as an early control, not paperwork added after the order or campaign is underway. Gaps are cheaper to address while specifications, suppliers and market plans can still change.
Record the source, owner and review date for function and safety checks. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Labels and markings
Labels and markings needs a named owner and a clear version. Outdated records, conflicting files and verbal changes should be resolved before they become production or publishing instructions.
Record the source, owner and review date for labels and markings. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Packaging and shipping marks
Use the result of packaging and shipping marks to choose a next action: accept, clarify, correct, escalate or obtain specialist advice. A checklist is only useful when it changes what happens next.
Record the source, owner and review date for packaging and shipping marks. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Defect classification
Defect classification may require evidence from the supplier, buyer, public records or a qualified outside provider. Note who supplied each item and what authority it does or does not carry.
Record the source, owner and review date for defect classification. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.
Photos and report
Recheck photos and report when the product, supplier, destination, regulation or commercial route changes. An earlier conclusion may no longer fit the current decision.
Record the source, owner and review date for photos and report. Keep it open until the evidence supports the answer.