IMO, the bodies come sanded well-enough for finishing. That said, I've still "made sure" on the 3 USACG bodies I've received. On the first two (a Tele and a Strat that did not get any water-based dye), I simply gave them the once over to make sure they were clean (no fingerprints, dirt or oils or imperfections that would keep lacquer from adhering properly) - even though they appeared immaculate. On the bass, since it got water-based dye, I did the grain raising routine: lightly dampen to raise small grain "hairs", allow to dry, lightly sand off fuzz.