Quality inspection before shipping

Finding a defect at the factory means fixing it. Finding it in your own storeroom means a loss. That is why the product is inspected before it leaves the factory.

What an inspection covers

• Match to the approved sample and the tech pack.
• Measurements on a random sample.
• Sewing, appearance and colours.
• Packing, labels and quantities.

The AQL standard

AQL sets the size of the sample drawn from the batch and the number of defects allowed before the shipment is rejected. Agree it with the supplier in the purchase order and do not leave it to judgement.

Who inspects

• You or your agent if you are there.
• An independent inspection company with an illustrated report for a fee, a common choice for medium and large orders.
• If defects are found: agree beforehand on rework or a discount, before shipping rather than after.

Exercise

Write a ten point inspection checklist for your product, choose an AQL level, and decide who will inspect and when.