Receiving, Shipping, and Warehousing (receiving, put-away, picking, packing, shipping, materials handling)
Receiving
Match the shipment to the purchase order and packing slip: count, check part numbers, inspect for damage, and note shortages, overages and damage (OS&D) on the carrier's document before signing. Then receive into the system and route to put-away. Damage claims depend on what was written at the door - a clean signature can waive them.
Put-away and picking
Every part gets a bin location recorded in the system; put-away follows size, weight, security and velocity (fast movers near the counter). Picking uses the picking ticket, FIFO/FEFO rotation for dated stock, and scan verification to prevent mis-picks. Partial picks and shortages must be recorded, not silently substituted.
Packing and shipping
Pack to protect: heavy items low and centred, fluids upright and sealed, hazardous goods segregated and documented. Shipping paperwork includes the bill of lading, packing slip, commercial invoice for cross-border shipments, and dangerous goods documentation where required. Know that FOB terms determine who bears freight and risk in transit.
Materials handling
Forklifts and pallet jacks require pre-use inspection, respect for rated capacity and awareness of load centre and centre of gravity. Keep aisles clear, stack safely and use the right equipment for the weight.
Worked example: a carton arrives crushed. Write "damaged - subject to inspection" on the bill of lading, photograph it, keep the packaging, and file the carrier claim.
Traps: signing clean and then finding a shortage; shipping a fluid without orientation; loading a pallet beyond rated capacity.