By FencingWise Editorial Team · Updated 3 November 2026.
Establish the reference before measuring
Give the inspector one accepted item schedule with the current drawings, samples and inspection requirements. Identify custom widths, special post patterns and gate assemblies separately from repeated standard components. Confirm which characteristics can be checked on finished goods and which need production records, so missing references do not force a last-minute assumption about a tolerance or acceptance limit.
The sampling arrangement and acceptance limits need to be agreed for the order. Do not substitute an arbitrary percentage or a generic internet tolerance. If a required reference is missing, record it before using an assumed value.
Work through the goods by component
| Check | Record |
|---|---|
| Identification | Item code, drawing revision and quantity represented |
| Panel geometry | Height, width, mesh measurement basis, wire dimensions and profile where relevant |
| Posts and plates | Section, length, holes, orientation and mounting details |
| Gates | Leaf dimensions, infill, hardware and reference to the approved assembly drawing |
| Appearance | Visible damage, weld appearance and surface condition |
| Coating | Specified method, measurement locations and results where required |
| Fittings | Part type, dimensions, set contents and quantities |
A visual weld check describes appearance; it does not prove weld strength or replace a specified test. Likewise, a colour match does not establish coating thickness or durability.
Write observations that can be acted on
Compare these two records:
| Weak record | More useful record |
|---|---|
| Panel checked, OK | Item P-01; sample and drawing revision identified; measured values recorded against the agreed limits |
| Some brackets missing | Pack reference identified; ordered and counted quantities recorded; shortage assigned to a specific part code |
| Coating looks poor | Location and observation photographed; applicable acceptance requirement and review action noted |
These are examples of record wording, not reports from an actual FencingWise order.
Where a discrepancy is found, keep its status visible: accepted, held for review, corrected or awaiting recheck. A replacement photograph should not erase the original observation and decision trail.
Reconcile the goods with the packing list
Check whether caps are fitted to posts, whether gate hardware is packed separately and whether fixing sets contain their stated parts. Match package labels to the line items so the receiving team can repeat the count.
Record net and gross weights where they form part of the agreed shipment information. The packaging guide explains why product protection and package identification belong together.
Close the inspection before dispatch
Require a release record that identifies the represented goods, findings, corrected items and any remaining hold. Keep the factory’s material checks distinct from foundations, installation and on-site gate commissioning. Where independent attendance or extra tests are needed, agree their scope and timing within the order rather than assuming every request is included in a general quality-control description.
FencingWise's quality control process follows the agreed order requirements. Third-party attendance, additional tests and the related timing and costs need to be arranged within the order scope. An editable inspection worksheet is available for organising those records.