Direct answer
When a Mahjong shipment arrives, check it before you sell it. Count the cartons against the packing list, photograph any outer damage before opening, open a sample of cartons, and check a sample of sets for completeness, appearance and packaging. Record what you find with photos and carton numbers, then report problems to the supplier quickly. A receiving inspection does not replace a pre-shipment inspection; it confirms what actually reached you.
Key takeaways
- When a Mahjong shipment arrives, check it before you sell it.
- If a 3PL receives the goods, give them these instructions in advance.
- Use your tile manifest and the sample approval checklist .
On this page
Key takeaways
- Check cartons before signing for delivery where possible, and note visible damage.
- Photograph before opening. Evidence matters for carrier and supplier claims.
- Sample sets across cartons, not just the first one opened.
- Count tiles in sampled sets. Missing tiles are a common complaint.
- Report issues in writing with photos, carton numbers and set IDs.
Step 1: At delivery
- Count cartons against the packing list or bill of lading.
- Look for crushed, wet or torn cartons.
- Note any damage on the delivery receipt if your carrier allows.
- Photograph the pallet and damaged cartons before moving them.
If a 3PL receives the goods, give them these instructions in advance.
Step 2: Check cartons
- Match carton numbers and shipping marks to the packing list.
- Weigh a few cartons if the packing list shows weights.
- Open cartons from different pallets and positions.
Step 3: Inspect sample sets
Choose sets from several cartons. For each one, check:
| Area | What to check |
|---|---|
| Completeness | Every tile against the manifest, plus racks, pushers, dice and other parts |
| Tiles | Chips, scratches, fill or print defects, layer gaps |
| Accessories | Fit, damage, color match |
| Packaging | Box condition, insert, labels, barcode |
| Match to sample | Compare with your approved reference sample |
Use your tile manifest and the sample approval checklist. The 18 common defects guide shows what each defect looks like.
How many sets to check
Decide in advance. Many buyers use the same sampling approach as their pre-shipment inspection so results are comparable. See AQL and third-party inspection.
Step 4: Record and report
For each issue, record:
- Carton number and set ID
- What is wrong, with photos
- How many sets in the sample were affected
Send a single, organized report to the supplier. Separate transport damage from production issues, because they may be handled differently. See how factories prevent missing and wrong tiles.
Step 5: Release stock
- Release cartons that passed to sellable inventory.
- Hold affected cartons until the issue is resolved.
- Keep a few sets aside as reference for this lot.
Checklist
- [ ] Cartons counted and photographed at delivery
- [ ] Carton numbers matched to the packing list
- [ ] Sets sampled from several cartons
- [ ] Tiles counted against the manifest
- [ ] Issues recorded with carton and set IDs
- [ ] Report sent to the supplier
- [ ] Affected stock held
FAQ
Do I need a receiving inspection if I had a pre-shipment inspection?
Yes. Pre-shipment inspection checks goods before they leave; receiving inspection checks what arrived after transport.
How fast should I report problems?
As soon as possible, and within any time limit in your agreement or the carrier's terms.
Who pays for transport damage?
It depends on your Incoterm, insurance and carrier terms. See EXW vs FOB vs CIF vs DDP.
Should my 3PL do the inspection?
They can, if you give them clear instructions and photos of what correct sets look like.
Next step
Ordering from Lucky Mahjong? Ask us for the packing list, carton marks and a photo reference of a complete set so your team or 3PL can check the shipment on arrival.
Buyer checklist
- Define the same tile manifest, dimensions and material for every quote.
- Separate setup, samples, accessories, packaging and freight costs.
- Confirm what changes when quantity or colorway count changes.
Production notes
Cost and MOQ guidance describes quote drivers. A supplier must confirm quantities, pricing, timing and delivery terms for the actual project.
Continue your project planning
For a project review, see Custom American Mahjong manufacturing. The cluster overview connects this decision with the rest of the sourcing process.
Planning a custom set?
Send quantity, tile count, target dimensions, artwork status, accessories, packaging, destination and launch date. These details help define a comparable quotation and sample scope.
Discuss a custom project