Pest Checks When Receiving Deliveries and Raw Materials

Many infestations arrive on pallets, boxes and sacks. A simple check at receiving can stop them at the door.

This guide outlines a practical routine.

The short answer

Inspect incoming goods for live insects, droppings, gnawing, webbing and damaged packaging. Reject or quarantine suspect items, remove outer cartons where practical, keep receiving areas clean and doors closed when not in use, and record checks.

What to look for

• Live or dead insects.
• Droppings or urine stains.
• Holes, gnawing or webbing.
• Damp or damaged packaging.

Receiving routine

1. Inspect before accepting.
2. Check pallets and vehicle interior.
3. Quarantine suspect goods.
4. Remove outer packaging outside the store if possible.
5. Record the check and feedback to the supplier.

Receiving area

• Keep clean and well lit.
• Keep doors closed when not in use.
• Fit door seals and air curtains where useful.
• Place monitoring devices nearby.

Supplier management

Discuss repeated problems with suppliers and ask about their pest control. Keep records to support claims.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Should I reject infested goods?

Usually yes, or quarantine and treat as advised.

Do pallets carry pests?

They can.

Who checks?

A trained receiving staff member.

Record keeping?

Yes, for audits.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on commercial pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full commercial pest control guide for Bangalore.