Supplier audit: Before you pay a deposit, find out who you’re really dealing with: the factory’s capability, certifications, capacity and export experience. It’s also how you discover if production will quietly be outsourced to another site.
Pre-shipment inspection: Done when at least 80% of the goods are packed. It checks your products from your end customer’s point of view: function, appearance and packaging. It’s your last chance to correct problems before you pay the balance.
During production inspection: Done when about 20 to 80% of the goods are produced. This is the moment when you can still correct problems before the whole order is finished, and keep your delivery date.
Container loading supervision: Confirms that the right quantity of goods, in the right condition, goes into the container. Photos and a seal record give you evidence for logistics and insurance.
Product testing and certification: Confirms your product is safe and meets the legal requirements of your market. Plan it early with an accredited laboratory, not after mass production.
Total quality control: For important orders, these steps are combined into one plan from pre-production to final inspection, so nothing falls between the cracks.
Not every order needs every inspection. Here is what I usually suggest to buyers in each situation.
Your situation | What I usually suggest |
Simple product, proven supplier. You want peace of mind before shipping. | Pre-shipment inspection |
Electronics, electrical items or designer clothing. You want consistent quality through mass production, and no delays. | During production inspection + pre-shipment inspection |
New design, new supplier or new materials. | Supplier audit + product testing + pre-production, during production and pre-shipment inspection |
High-value product, or bad reviews and returns are not an option. Selling to demanding markets such as Japan. | 100% piece-by-piece inspection before shipment, plus metal detection where relevant |
