English overview · DE – Wareneingang 2026: Mängel erkennen und Rügen dokumentieren
Archive allocation: 2026-02. Editorially added on 14 November 2026.
Damaged or defective goods raise more than technical issues. In commercial transactions, receiving procedures can affect the preservation of remedies. Warehousing, purchasing and quality teams therefore need coordinated processes.
Legal framework
Section 377 HGB concerns purchases that are commercial transactions for both parties. Goods require prompt appropriate inspection and notice of discovered defects. Later-discovered hidden defects also require prompt action. Appropriate inspection depends on the product, quantity and delivery circumstances.
Practical implementation
Delivery notes, batch numbers, photographs, inspection results and proof of sending notice should be kept together. Returns or repairs must not inadvertently destroy evidence. Supplier portals help only if the content and timing of notices remain provable.
Four practical examples
Illustrative scenarios, not reports of actual mandates.
1. Goods arrive damaged. Inspection and notice require review.
2. A dealer receives exclusivity. Territory and minimum sales need agreement.
3. An agent seeks commission. Attribution and accounts are examined.
4. A framework ends. Orders and remaining stock need arrangements.