How to Inspect a Glass Vitrine Delivery Before Signing

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Inspect a glass vitrine delivery before signing the delivery note by checking the glass for chips, scratches and bubbles, confirming the frame and fittings are complete and undamaged, and comparing dimensions with the approved drawing. Note any defect on the delivery paperwork at the time of receipt so it can be resolved quickly.

Check the Packaging and Transport Condition

Before opening anything, look at the outer packaging. Glass items are usually wrapped in protective film, cardboard and foam corners. Crushed corners, wet packaging or visible impact marks suggest the piece may have been damaged in transit.

Ask the driver to wait while you do a first look. If the packaging is seriously damaged, mention it on the delivery note before the driver leaves, because this record is what supports any later claim.

Inspect the Glass Surface and Edges

Remove the protective film in good light and inspect each glass panel from several angles. Look for chips along the edges, small cracks, scratches, haze and any sign of bubbles or distortion. Tempered and laminated glass should show no unusual marks inside the panel.

Run a gloved hand along the edges to feel for chips.
Check corners for hairline cracks.
Look at the surface against a plain background to spot scratches.

Verify the Frame, Profiles and Finish

Examine the metal frame or profiles for dents, bends, weld marks that were not finished and scratches in the coating or powder finish. The colour should match the approved sample, and corners should sit square with no gaps where the profiles meet.

Open and close any doors or sliding parts. They should move smoothly without rubbing, and the lock or handle should engage properly.

Confirm Fittings, Hardware and Accessories

Compare the delivered parts against the packing list and the specification. Typical items include hinges, locks, keys, shelves, glass supports, gaskets, screws and any LED or lighting elements. Count each item and make sure the quantities match.

Check that keys are labelled or bagged and that shelves and clips are included in the right number for each unit. A missing fitting can delay installation as much as a broken panel.

Measure Dimensions Against the Approved Drawing

Compare the overall height, width and depth of each unit with the drawing signed by the client. Check the opening and the position of doors or partitions as well. Small differences can be acceptable in some cases, but they should be recorded.

If any dimension looks clearly different, do not force the unit into place. Note the measurement, take photos and contact the project contact before installation begins.

Record Findings and Document the Receipt

Write down every defect you find on the delivery note, with the item number and a short description. Take dated photos of any damage, both close up and from a distance so the location is clear. Sign only after your notes match what you observed.

Keep a copy of the notes and photos with the project file. Clear records make it much easier to resolve problems quickly and fairly.

Frequently asked questions

Should I sign the delivery note before inspecting the glass?

No. Inspect the goods first and then sign. Your signature usually confirms that the items were received in acceptable condition, so write any damage on the note before you sign.

What if I only find damage after the driver has left?

Report it to the supplier as soon as you find it and send dated photos. Keep the packaging and any broken pieces so they can be checked, and mention in your message that the damage was found after delivery.

Can I install a vitrine that has a small scratch on the glass?

That depends on the size and position of the scratch and on what was agreed. Discuss it with the project contact before installing, and record the decision in writing.

How do I know if the glass is tempered or laminated?

Check the markings or labels on the glass, which are often printed in a corner. If you are not sure, ask the supplier to confirm the glass type on the paperwork before installation.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common mistake is signing the delivery note without writing down visible damage or missing parts. Once the paperwork is signed clean, proving that the problem happened in transit becomes very difficult.

Our recommendation

Inspect each unit in good daylight with the protective film still on the non-visible side, and photograph the packaging before you open it. Keep the drawing next to you so dimension checks are quick and specific.

Summary

A careful inspection at delivery protects the project from broken glass, missing fittings and wrong sizes. Check the packaging, glass, frame, fittings and dimensions, then record every finding before signing.

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