"Do all companies do this sort of thing, where they name lots of stipulations and rules but don't itemize and summarize those all-important points on one page to make them crystal clear?"
Yes, yes, yes. I agree it is a big PITA. Ironically, the repetition of threats actually makes it easier to miss a vital part of the guidelines. I'm a big fan of bullet points rather than having to hunt for the pertinent information in a hodge podge of various fonts and colors.
"Do companies look for reasons to not pay?"
No. In general the MSC does not want to reject a shop. By the time someone completes an assignment, there is already an investment of time from the scheduler and editor. When possible most MSCs will work with the shopper to get the report submitted. Of course it will vary as each company has their own policies and some errors cannot be fixed.
Equal rights for others does not mean fewer rights for you. It's not pie.
"I prefer someone who burns the flag and then wraps themselves up in the Constitution over someone who burns the Constitution and then wraps themselves up in the flag." -Molly Ivins
Never try to teach a pig to sing. It's a waste of your time and it really annoys the pig.