Recently I shipped a completed order to an out of state client. They claimed that the order was not complete and stated that they were missing a DVD slideshow they had ordered. I know it was included in the order and suspect it was just a way to get a "free" copy (even though it would have been relatively easy for them to make their own).

Because of this, I want to include some sort of a delivery receipt confirmation letter for my client's to complete and return to me so that I have "proof" that they have effectively received and accepted the order and consequently, acknowledge that the contract has been fulfilled.

I'd like to hear what others are using and how you are handling this in your own business. Also, I'd really appreciate any templates that I can review to get a head start with? I've searched the forums but haven't been able to find anything specific to this issue. Thanks to anyone willing to share.

I don't know that there's anything you can do. It's happened to us, too. It's just a cost of business. It does suck, though.

Yeah, to be honest, I wasn't sure I should sweat it because the majority of the people I work with would never try to pull something dishonest with me but I also wanted to make sure that I wasn't just being a naive newbie. Thanks for letting me know that there are others out there that can empathize with me.

I wouldn't worry about it. But if it does, it wouldn't hurt to include an itemized packing list where you put check marks in pen next to each item then sign it. If the client gets the impression that you were extra careful in documenting what was shipped they may think twice before pulling that stunt.

That was just gonna be my answer.

Great idea, Dennis. Thanks!