Headstone Delivery Checklist: What to Inspect When Your Memorial Arrives
What to check when a headstone is delivered — crate condition, chips, polish, engraving, dimensions and paperwork — and what to do if something is wrong.
Whether your headstone is delivered to the cemetery, a monument dealer or your home, a careful inspection on arrival protects you if anything was damaged in transit.
Before signing for delivery
- Inspect the crate. Note broken boards, crushed corners or signs of impact on the delivery receipt.
- Photograph everything — the crate, labels and any damage — before unpacking.
- Don't refuse silently. If the crate is badly damaged, write "damaged — subject to inspection" when you sign.
Inspect the stone
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Edges and corners | Chips, especially on polished edges |
| Faces | Cracks, scratches, dull patches in the polish |
| Engraving | Spelling, dates, alignment against the approved proof |
| Colour | Consistent with the approved granite |
| Dimensions | Width, height and thickness match the order |
| Base | Matching colour, finish and size |
Measure with a tape and compare every word to your approved proof.
Paperwork
- Packing list and order number
- Proof and specification
- Any installation instructions or setting compound
If something is wrong
- Photograph the issue clearly with a ruler for scale.
- Report it to the supplier within the timeframe in your terms — usually days, not weeks.
- Keep the crate and packing until the issue is resolved.
Minor surface marks can sometimes be polished out on site; engraving errors and cracks usually mean a remake.
Key Takeaways
- Inspect and photograph the crate before signing.
- Check every word against the proof and measure the stone.
- Report problems promptly and keep the packaging.
Next Step
Learn how DAP delivery works in our delivery guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my headstone arrives chipped?
Photograph it before and after unpacking, note the damage on the delivery receipt and report it to the supplier immediately.
Should I check the engraving on delivery?
Yes. Compare every word and date against the approved proof before the stone is installed.
Can small scratches be fixed?
Light surface marks can sometimes be polished out. Cracks and engraving errors usually require a replacement.
Ready to get pricing for your granite monument?
Request pricing, factory specifications, and DAP delivery timelines from our team.
Related guides
Headstone Proof Approval Checklist
How to Compare Headstone Quotes Side by Side
What Information Goes on a Headstone? A Simple Checklist
How to Order a Headstone for a Cemetery in Another City or Province
How to Choose a Granite Monument Supplier
