Consolidation brings identified supplier orders into one planned shipment. Before combining them, match each arrival to its order, resolve discrepancies, agree the packing outcome and obtain a release instruction. Combining parcels can change measurements and handling costs, so assess the complete shipment rather than assuming consolidation always saves money.
Keep an order register
Record each supplier, order reference, product variant and quantity. Share domestic tracking references when available so warehouse receiving can be matched to the right order.
Separate ordered units from received cartons: a carton count alone does not prove how many products arrived. Record split deliveries against the same order without marking the whole order complete early. The warehouse receiving guide explains the arrival information to agree before sellers dispatch.
Download the supplier arrival register (TXT) and keep the supplier’s packing records alongside it.
Agree what “checked” means
A count, an appearance check and a function test are different services. Specify the checks, photos and reporting you require. The agreed checklist should determine what is performed.
Identify the cartons or units to inspect and who approves exceptions. A sealed parcel remains unverified inside unless an agreed check establishes its contents. Record missing items, visible damage and wrong variants before repacking removes the original parcel identity. Use the sample and inspection guide to define the evidence needed for your decision.
Choose the packing outcome
Discuss whether retail packaging should stay, whether cartons can be combined and which items require separate protection. Confirm the resulting packed measurements before reviewing the final transport cost.
Give every finished package an identifier and link it to its contents. Preserve the connection to the original supplier order, including accessories belonging to a set. Update carton count, dimensions and gross weight after repacking. Follow the packing and labels guide and download the packing list worksheet (TXT).
Set dispatch instructions
State whether all orders must arrive before dispatch or whether partial shipments are acceptable. Temporary storage, extra handling and revised packing can change the scope.
For a delayed supplier, compare waiting for the remaining order with releasing an identified batch. Record which goods are ready, what must remain on hold, the extra work to assess and the person authorised to decide. The storage and batch release guide helps separate approved stock from goods still waiting for action.
Use a final release check
- Reconcile the arrival register and record unresolved differences.
- Confirm the approved packing list and finished measurements.
- Identify the cartons to release and the quantities staying in storage.
- Confirm the shipment scope, destination and release approver.
- After handover, retain the dispatch reference and reconcile remaining stock.
Explore sourcing and consolidation → or request a shipment review with your supplier order list. Confirm receiving instructions before sending goods to a warehouse.
