To reduce container loss, define a recorded recipient at each hand-off instead of making it “everyone's responsibility.” Then it is clear who checks the container as it leaves the depot, reaches the customer and returns.
Create a responsibility table
For each step, record sender, recipient, location, time and quantity: depot dispatch, vehicle hand-off, customer receipt, return, washing and re-entry to stock. State which records are compared when quantities do not match.
Close the customer balance. Show containers delivered and collected separately on the dispatch record. Confirm the open customer balance during regular reconciliation; investigate disputes against proof of delivery and movement records. Put the return window and process for unreturned containers clearly in the parties' contract.
Find the loss in the process. Do not immediately assign an unlocated container to a particular worker. Check the last confirmed hand-off, the next movement record and the count time. Report loss, damage and late return separately, then correct recurring gaps in the hand-off procedure.
