Receiving
Also known as: Warehouse Receiving, Inbound Receiving, Goods Receipt
Definition
Receiving is the first step in warehouse operations when inventory arrives. It involves accepting deliveries, verifying contents against documentation, inspecting for damage, and recording items into the warehouse management system.
The Receiving Process
- Appointment scheduling - Coordinate delivery timing
- Dock assignment - Direct truck to appropriate door
- Unloading - Remove cargo from vehicle
- Documentation check - Compare shipment to PO/ASN
- Quantity verification - Count items received
- Quality inspection - Check for damage or defects
- System entry - Record receipt in WMS
- Put away - Move items to storage locations
Types of Receiving
| Type | Description | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Blind receiving | Count without referencing PO | Slowest, most accurate |
| Standard receiving | Verify against purchase order | Balanced |
| ASN receiving | Scan and confirm pre-sent data | Fastest |
| Cross-dock receiving | Transfer directly to outbound | Minimal handling |
Key Receiving Metrics
- Receiving accuracy - % of items correctly received
- Dock-to-stock time - Hours from arrival to available
- Receiving productivity - Units received per labor hour
- Damage rate - % of items arriving damaged
Common Receiving Challenges
- Unexpected deliveries - No appointment, causes congestion
- Documentation errors - Mismatches between PO and shipment
- Damaged goods - Requires claims and returns
- Capacity constraints - Too many trucks, not enough doors
- Data entry errors - Incorrect quantities in system
Best Practices
- Use appointments to level dock workload
- Implement barcode scanning for accuracy
- Photograph damaged goods immediately
- Receive high-priority items first
- Train staff on inspection procedures
- Keep receiving area organized and clear
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