It seems unfortunate that some feel it is common place to have missing hardware or components when you order stuff. I have put a ton of things together from furniture to toys. In all of these instances I have never had to check for hardware. This said I have experience missing hardware when receiving automotive stuff several times, (From several sources). From my old VW rail, to my Drag-Car; I always plan on checking the contents. It seems something is always missing, (or I don't like what was included and replace with my own flavor).
My guess is this is the difference between a custom product where humans are the skilled labor and manufactured product where machines are. The bottom line is the buyer should never HAVE to account for errors. While I agree that it is't a bad idea, I understand that seeing the brown box on the front step is exciting and it's tough to slow down and not jump head-first in. We all have been there......