What must a buyer do to properly "accept" goods under the UCC?

To properly "accept" goods under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), a buyer is required to communicate acceptance or rejection in a timely manner according to the contract terms. Acceptance signifies that the buyer has agreed to take the goods in the condition they were delivered, and this communication can be either explicit or implied through actions.

Timeliness is crucial since it helps to establish clear terms of the transaction and protects both parties' interests. If a buyer fails to respond within the specified timeframe set by the contract or reasonable time if not specified, they may be considered to have rejected the goods or may lose the right to challenge the quality of the goods later.

Examining the goods for quality is indeed an important aspect of the process, but it comes after or in conjunction with the act of acceptance. Simply examining the goods does not equate to formal acceptance unless the buyer communicates that they are accepting them based on that examination. Making payment is also a critical part of the transaction but does not by itself constitute acceptance of the goods. Similarly, notifying the seller only if dissatisfied could lead to misunderstandings regarding acceptance, as the buyer would not have properly communicated their acceptance or rejection in a timely manner as mandated by the UCC.