Photoshop :: Applying Correct Clipping Paths

I use clipping paths on images to create contour cut items for various media. Think - turning a picture of a woman holding a product converted to a cardboard display of a same woman and product.

Been using some outsourced clipping path services and get a wide variety of formats returned to me (even from within the same companies who've done multiple jobs for me). I think what happens is the jobs get passed to whoever and they assume I use the pics for web applications.

Anyway, after jumping through a few different vendors trying to get some consistent deliverables, thought I might just see if someone can teach me to do it myself.

I'd be happy to forward an "original" and the delivered "version that works for me" and a sample of the "version that doesn't work for me." Need advice on steps to convert the "not working" file to "one that works." The main problem is that many timeswhile the clipping path is around the correct object, when I import into my software (FlexiSIGN) I then see the image on the white background (good) but when you click the image it is "framed" in the original square outline of the photograph (not so good). My machine wants to cut around the square outline not around the image.