Connecting warehousing and transport for smoother handovers

Where two plans meet

A warehouse has its own receiving and dispatch schedules, handling capacity and counting procedures. A transport provider has vehicle schedules, routes and equipment conditions. Without checking these plans together in advance, even a vehicle arriving on time may have to wait.

Agree on receiving times and a contact person before delivery day. If volumes or dispatch schedules change, update all relevant parties together.

Confirm access and handling conditions

An accurate address is the first step. Also check permitted vehicle types, stopping points, height limits and conditions in the delivery area. A warehouse having a ramp or forklift does not mean that equipment is suitable for every package.

• Receiving hours, gate procedures and appointment requirements.
• Vehicle type, package dimensions and handover location.
• Responsibility for loading and unloading, required equipment and staff.
• Phone numbers for the warehouse coordinator and delivery contact.

Agree on what is being counted

A shipment may be described in cartons, packages, pallets or product units. Both sides should agree on the counting unit and whether packages will be opened or only external package counts confirmed.

Identification labels should distinguish shipments and destinations. Where dispatch is split into several batches, clarify which packages belong to each batch to prevent incorrect or incomplete handovers.

Record condition at handover

Before completing handover, compare quantities within the agreed checking scope and inspect visible packaging condition. Record dents, tears, moisture or discrepancies in the agreed way, with photos where appropriate.

A handover record should identify the time, sender and receiver, and any discrepancies. Acknowledging receipt of packages does not automatically replace an inspection of the products inside.

Connect with the next transport leg

Goods entering a warehouse for storage, consolidation or deconsolidation may continue to a port, airport or final address. Dispatch schedules should be checked against the next leg's receiving deadline.

For bonded warehouses or CFS facilities, document status and the conditions for performing the work must also be checked. Vehicle arrangements should match when the cargo is both authorised and ready for handover.

A checklist before delivery day

Reconfirm the schedule, address, contacts, package count, vehicle, equipment, documents and any waiting charges. After delivery, keep handover records where the relevant teams can review them.

SEALLOGS connects warehousing and transport discussions to build a plan for each shipment. Counting scope, handling operations and responsibilities should be clarified before implementation.