When receiving your new taiko drum, take a few minutes to document the delivery, check the order, set the drum up safely, and keep the packaging until everything is confirmed.
You do not need technical knowledge to do this. Follow the four steps below in order.
1. Photograph the Package Before Opening
Before signing for the shipment, compare the number of cartons or crates with the quantity on the waybill. If anything is missing or an outer package is visibly damaged, take photos and—where the carrier allows it—note the issue on the delivery receipt before signing.
Before cutting a carton or crate open, check the shipping label and look for visible crushing, punctures, tears, water marks, or broken crate pieces.
Take clear photos of:
- every side of the outer package;
- the shipping label; and
- any visible damage.
If the package looks seriously damaged, record a short video before opening it. Then move the shipment carefully into a clean, dry, well-lit space.
For large drums: Do not try to move a heavy shipment alone. Clear the path to the final room first, and use enough people or suitable handling equipment for stairs, narrow doors, or tight corners.
2. Unpack Slowly and Check Your Order
Open the package carefully. Keep blades shallow so they cannot cut a drumhead, rope, finish, case, or protective wrap.
Take photos as you remove the packing layers, then keep the carton or crate, labels, and all internal packing together.
Check the delivery against your order confirmation:
| Item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Drum | Correct model, size, finish, and configuration |
| Drum body and heads | No unexpected transit damage, loose parts, or visible cracks |
| Stand or strap | Correct item and all expected parts present |
| Bachi | Correct type and quantity, if ordered |
| Case or cover | Correct item and apparent fit |
| Other accessories | Any ordered hardware, protection, or spare items |
Wood grain, hide texture, color, and handcrafted details naturally vary. If you are unsure whether something is normal or a problem, take photos and ask JINLEI before trying to change or repair it.
3. If There Is a Problem, Stop and Contact JINLEI
Do not repair, disassemble, alter, discard, or return the drum yourself.
Under JINLEI’s current Refund Policy, visible shipping damage or an incorrect item should be reported within 7 calendar days of delivery. If you believe there is a manufacturing defect, contact JINLEI as soon as you discover it.
Send JINLEI:
- your order number;
- photos of the outer packaging and shipping label;
- photos of the complete item and the affected area; and
- a video that clearly shows the issue.
Keep the product and all original packaging until the issue is resolved. Contact JINLEI through the contact page or at shop@jinlei-music.com.
4. Set Up Safely Before the First Rehearsal
Once the order is correct and undamaged, place the drum in the room where it will normally be used or stored. Choose a stable indoor location away from direct sunlight, damp floors, and strong heating or air-conditioning vents.
Before playing:
- make sure the stand sits flat and supports the drum securely;
- confirm that the drum cannot roll, slide, or tip;
- for a shoulder-carried drum, check the strap attachment and adjustment before lifting;
- use bachi that are compatible with the selected drum; and
- begin with a few controlled test strokes, not a full-volume rehearsal.
Do not use a hair dryer, heater, water mist, or improvised retensioning method to change the drum’s feel or sound. If the drum does not behave as expected, stop and contact JINLEI with photos or a short video.
After the first session, wipe away sweat or surface moisture with a soft, dry cloth. Let the drum and case air in a dry, ventilated space before closing the case. For routine care, see JINLEI’s taiko care guide.
One-Page Arrival Checklist
- Photographed the outer packaging and label before opening.
- Opened the package carefully and kept all packing materials.
- Checked the drum and accessories against the order.
- Reported any visible shipping damage, incorrect item, or suspected defect promptly.
- Kept the original packaging until the delivery is confirmed and any reported issue is resolved.
- Set up the correct stand or strap securely.
- Used compatible bachi for gentle first test strokes.
- Stored the drum away from direct sun, dampness, and strong vents after use.
If you need help at any point, send JINLEI your order number, a short description, and photos or video where useful. We will help you identify the right next step. If you notice anything unusual, keep the drum and all original packaging until the issue has been resolved.
