Every business whether small, medium, or growing has a flow of goods moving in and out. One of the most crucial processes in this cycle is the goods receiving SOP.
Without a clear and structured system, risks such as loss, damage, or miscalculations can easily occur. This is why every business needs a standardized procedure for receiving goods.
This article breaks down the process in a simple, structured way, including workflow steps, practical tips, and how SpaceHub can support the storage process after goods are received.
What Is a Goods Receiving SOP?
A goods receiving SOP is a standardized procedure that outlines the steps for receiving items from suppliers or other parties in a systematic, safe, and well documented manner. Its purpose is to ensure that all incoming goods match the order, are in good condition, and are properly recorded.
This SOP is highly useful not only in large warehouses but also in retail stores, offices, home businesses, and even personal storage setups. With an SOP in place, every person involved knows what to do, helping minimize errors and improve operational efficiency.
Common Goods Receiving Workflow
Here is the general workflow commonly used in goods receiving SOPs:
1. Goods Arrival
Items arrive at the warehouse/store and are placed in the receiving or transit area.
2. Physical Inspection
Goods are checked for quantity and physical condition (damaged, torn, or defective).
3. Document Verification
Compare goods with documents such as invoices and delivery orders to ensure accuracy.
4. Recording
All received items are documented in a system or logbook.
5. Issue Reporting (If Any)
If there are discrepancies, damaged items, or mismatches, report them immediately to the relevant party.
6. Transfer to Storage Area
Once verified and recorded, goods are moved to their designated storage location.
Practical Tips for Creating a Goods Receiving SOP
To keep the receiving process running smoothly and consistently, consider these tips:
- Use a checklist to simplify inspections and avoid missing steps.
- Assign clear PICs (Person in Charge) for each stage to reduce miscommunication.
- Prepare a holding/transit area for new arrivals before they are stored.
- Know delivery schedules to plan staffing and timing.
- Use an organized storage system so items are kept safely, cleanly, and are easy to retrieve.
After Receiving Goods, Where Should They Be Stored?
Receiving goods is only half the process. After that, you need an organized and efficient storage area.
For small businesses, retail stores, home-based entrepreneurs, or freelancers, limited storage space is often a major challenge.
The solution? Use additional storage services like flexible and secure self storage.
SpaceHub Clean and Secure Additional Storage for Your Business
SpaceHub offers facilities for those who need extra storage space after receiving goods:
- Private storage units from 0.4 m² to 6 m²
- Strategic locations: Thamrin, Gajah Mada, Bendungan Hilir, Daan Mogot
- Flexible access to match your business schedule
- Clean, secure, air conditioned environment — ideal for stock, documents, tools, or event equipment
With an easy online booking system and no long term contracts, SpaceHub is perfect for dynamic business needs.
Having a goods receiving SOP is not merely a formality it’s a crucial part of effective, organized operations. A structured process saves time, reduces effort, and minimizes risks of errors.
And if you need extra storage for the goods you’ve received, SpaceHub is ready to help.
