Scenario: a sample edge arrives from overseas and you will judge the supplier on it. Direct answer: inspect and log it on day one before anyone cuts, installs or discards the packaging, so that later you can tell supplier issues from handling issues. Work through the list in order. It is a process checklist, not a quality standard.
Checklist
Before opening
- Photograph the outside of the package from all sides, with the shipping label visible.
- Note date and time, carrier and any damage to the packaging.
- Weigh the package and compare with the shipping document if it lists a weight.
Opening
- Film or photograph the opening so the packing arrangement is clear.
- Check the contents against the packing list and commercial invoice: item, quantity and description.
- Check that any marking on the part or label is present and consistent with the paperwork.
The part itself
- Look for visible damage, rust, cracks or loose carbide, and photograph each issue.
- Measure length, width, thickness and hole positions against the drawing or specification you agreed, and record the readings.
- Check that the carbide is secure by visual inspection only; do not hammer or test destructively on day one.
- Weigh the part.
Documents
- Check whether a material or test certificate is included, and file a copy. Note what type it says it is.
- Check the paperwork for the supplier’s name, order number and dates.
Recording
- Write one summary line: received, as expected or not, and the key issues.
- Store photos and notes in the order folder with the date in each file name.
- Keep the packaging and the sample until the evaluation is finished.
What not to conclude
A sample that looks good shows only that one piece arrived in good shape. It says nothing on wear life or consistency across a production lot.
A one-line log format
Date, supplier, order number, sample ID, result (as expected, or issues) and the folder name. Keep the log in one place so that you can see the history of all samples at a glance.
Boundary: No tolerance or quality standard is stated; use the drawing or specification you agreed with the supplier.
Further reading on this site.
A factory sample fits, but our receiving sample does not. How should the two be compared? ↗Inspecting a Carbide Insert Delivery: A Buyer’s Receiving Checklist ↗Sourcing carbide wear parts guide ↗A 15-Minute Weekly Market-Watch Routine for Wear-Parts Buyers ↗DRC Cobalt Quotas and Carbide Costs: What Edge Buyers Can and Cannot Conclude ↗Choosing a Customs Broker for Wear-Parts Imports: Seven Questions ↗
