Count the pieces you will actually hand over
The booking piece count becomes the collection count. If you add a carton after the quote, say so before the window — the chargeable weight and the seal both change.
Close the packaging
Tape that will survive a sort. Labels on the largest face, not on the sealing tape. Remove old carrier labels so the scan target is unambiguous.
Match the commercial file
For anything crossing a border, the invoice line items must match the cartons. A packing list that disagrees with the label is a hold waiting to happen.
Be present for the first custody event
Someone who can confirm the count signs the collection. That name sits on the public timeline. A closed office with freight in the lobby is not a collection.
Keep your own photo
A wide shot of the stacked pieces at handover is the fastest way to settle a later shortage conversation. White-glove bookings may require the courier to take one as well.