Pre-shipment inspection: what to check before your goods leave China
The last chance to find problems before you pay the balance and the goods are at sea.
- Book inspection when most of the order is finished and packed.
- Inspectors check a sample of units against your approved sample and specification.
- Agree in writing what happens if goods fail.
- Pay the balance only after a pass.
A pre-shipment inspection is an independent check of your goods at the factory, before the balance is paid and before anything ships. It is one of the cheapest forms of insurance in importing.
When to book it
Usually when production is complete and most goods are packed. Earlier checks during production can catch problems sooner on large or complex orders.
What gets checked
| Area | Examples |
|---|---|
| Quantity | Units and cartons match the order |
| Appearance | Colour, finish, defects |
| Measurements | Sizes against specification |
| Function | Product works as intended |
| Packaging and labels | Arabic text, barcodes, carton marks |
| Comparison | Matches the approved sample |
How sampling works
Inspectors check a statistical sample rather than every unit, using accepted sampling standards. You agree the acceptable level of defects in advance.
If goods fail
- Do not pay the balance.
- Ask the factory to rework or replace the defective goods.
- Book a re-inspection, ideally at the factory's cost as agreed in your contract.
Before inspection comes the sample: read ordering samples from China. For contracts, see what to put in a supplier contract.
How Husbar can help
Husbar China Line books and reviews inspections for Gulf brands and handles the follow-up with the factory if goods fail. See Husbar China Line.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pre-shipment inspection cost?
Inspection companies usually charge per inspector-day. It is small compared with the cost of a bad shipment.
Who should pay for re-inspection?
Agree in your contract that the factory pays if goods fail the first inspection.
Can I inspect by video instead?
Video checks help, but an independent inspector on site is more reliable for full orders.