Visual Check: Examine the entire instrument (top, back, sides, binding, neck, headstock) for any scratches, dings, or surface blemishes.

Finish Quality: Ensure a smooth, even finish, free from imperfections like bubbles or uneven coloration.

Hardware:

• Tuners: Check tuners, tuner buttons, bushings, and screws for proper installation, condition and operation.
• Strap Button: Inspect the strap button to ensure it’s securely attached.
• Bridge Pins: Verify that bridge pins are correctly fitted and undamaged.
• Banjo Specific: Tighten each tension hook, hand-tighten resonator screws, and tape for secure transport.
• Endpin: Confirm the endpin is secure and properly fitted. 

Neck & Body Connection: Check for proper neck alignment with the body, ensuring no visible gaps or misalignment.

Soundboard: Inspect the soundboard (top of the instrument) for cracks, warping, or structural issues.

Back & Sides: Examine the back and sides for cracks or separation from the body.

Bridge: Ensure the bridge is securely attached to the top without cracks or separation.

Neck Relief & Straightness: Verify the neck is straight and has appropriate relief.

Fret Inspection: Confirm all frets are properly seated, level, and free from sharp edges or signs of wear.

Action Height: Measure action height at the 12th fret, ensuring it’s within manufacturer specifications for comfortable playability.

Nut & Saddle: Check the nut and saddle for correct height, secure fitting, and lubricate slots as needed.

Tuning Stability: Tune the instrument and check for stable, responsive tuners.

Intonation: Test intonation across the neck to ensure accurate tuning in all positions, adjusting floating bridges if necessary (mandolin, banjo, fiddle, archtop guitars).

Sound Quality: Play the instrument to assess tonal quality, sustain, and volume.

Pickup & Preamp Functionality: Test all electronic components, including onboard tuners, EQ controls, and output jacks.

Clean & Polish: Wipe the instrument’s body, neck, and headstock with a non-abrasive cloth and recommended cleaning products, like Music Nomad Guitar Detailer or The Guitar ONE.

Case/Gig Bag Check: Inspect any included case or gig bag for damage, quality, and proper fit.

Included Accessories & Packaging: Verify that all promised accessories are included (thank you card, picks, stickers, gift card, Humidipaks, AcoustiCare smart sensor, all manufacturers documentation), and ensure secure packing with inflatable padding. Shake the box to confirm stability during transit.

Special Requests: Ensure any customer-specific requests or customizations are correctly implemented and verified.