Undoubtedly one of the most common questions my team and I receive about China is ‘What can I do to check the quality of my product before it arrives at my door?’. The importance of this issue is perhaps why we hear it so much. Because in the end, what is the point of saving 30-50% on your purchasing costs if you end up with a product you can’t sell?
Here are some of our own secret techniques and other well-known options:
Supplier Self Assessment:
The Supplier Self Assessment outlines all your standards for product quality, against which the supplier will judge him/herself. During the negotiation phase, use this form to make your supplier clear on your expectations. Then have your supplier complete the form and fax it to you, prior to shipping the goods, so you can approve it, or not approve it. This method is unique to our processes, and something you may wish to invest in.
More details can be found here.
Pre-Shipment Photo:
Basic and straight forward, having your supplier send a photo of your product before shipping will allow you to see what to expect in your container. This type of inspection can be very detailed depending on the type of photos you request. The packaging, the key components of the product (e.g. stitching in clothing), colour etc. can all be documented in a photo. A good measure of what to expect, a photo does however limit the amount and depth of product inspection a importer can do, and in some cases it can be limited by what the supplier wants you to see.
Pre-Shipment Sample:
You may choose to have a sample of your order air freighted to you before the main shipment arrives. This form of inspection will enable you to gauge the quality of the shipment you will soon receive. Having the product in your hand enables the appropriate testing to be performed and for your own peace of mind. However, if something has gone wrong with the main shipment you won’t know for sure until it is at your door. This method can also sometimes be impossible due to the nature of the product.
Factory Audit:
This involves having a qualified inspector verify the factory’s existence, check core production competencies and capacity claims. Also check the bona-fides of the person you are dealing with and see first hand the quality procedures employed.
During Production Inspection (DPI):
Occurs when the merchandise is completed, packed and ready for shipment, or at least 80% of products packed.
Performed to an agreed Acceptable Quality Level (AQL), established between you and the supplier. Samples are taken based on the internationally recognized statistical random sampling technique, commonly known as ANSI/ASQC Z1.4, BS 6001-1, and ISO 2859-1. Inspectors will verify quantity, style, colour, workmanship, size, packaging, and shipping mark to ensure the merchandise meets the contract specifications, or conforms to the approved sample.
If you are interested in finding out more about the inspection options and services available to you, please feel free to contact us.
