Pre-Shipment Inspection
ECQA provides Pre-Shipment Inspection services for buyers, brands, and importers who require independent verification before shipment release. Our inspectors follow standardized procedures and internationally accepted sampling methods to support reliable shipment decisions.
Key Aspects of Pre-Shipment Inspection
- Quantity Verification: Confirms that the number of units produced and packed matches the purchase order.
- Labeling and Marking: Reviews product labels, barcodes, carton markings, and compliance information.
- Packaging Review: Ensures packaging strength, protective materials, and export readiness.
- Visual Appearance: Checks for cosmetic defects, workmanship quality, contamination, or inconsistencies.
- Specification Confirmation: Measures weight, dimensions, color, and materials according to buyer requirements.
- Functionality Testing: Performs basic operational tests and category-specific checks.
- Client-Specific Requirements: Includes any additional checkpoints provided by the buyer.
When to Conduct a Pre-Shipment Inspection
Schedule a Pre-Shipment Inspection when these conditions are met:
- At least 80 percent of production is completed and packed into export cartons.
- Products are ready or nearly ready for shipment.
- Verification is required before final payment or shipment release.
- Orders involve strict customer or regulatory requirements.
- You are working with a new supplier or high-risk product category.
How ECQA Conducts Pre-Shipment Inspections
Our inspectors follow standardized protocols and internationally recognized sampling methods, including Acceptance Quality Limit (AQL) based on ANSI/ASQC Z1.4 / ISO 2859-1.
- Inspection scheduling once production reaches the required completion level.
- Random sampling of products based on AQL tables.
- On-site evaluation of quality, quantity, labeling, packaging, and workmanship.
- Defect classification into critical, major, and minor categories.
- Photo-supported inspection report delivered within 24 hours.
- Optional supporting documents for compliance and customs requirements.
Why Pre-Shipment Inspection is Important
- Identifies potential defects before the goods leave the factory.
- Verifies compliance with buyer specifications and technical requirements.
- Supports accurate and consistent product quality across repeated orders.
- Reduces shipment risks and prevents delays or rejections.
- Provides independent documentation for customs, buyers, or internal teams.
Product Categories We Covered
ECQA conducts Pre-Shipment Inspections for:
- Apparel and textiles
- Softlines and accessories
- Furniture and home goods
- Electrical and electronic products
- Small appliances
- Toys and children’s products
- General consumer goods
- Other categories can be assessed on request.
Locations Covered
ECQA conducts Pre-Shipment Inspections across China, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Turkey, Kenya, Egypt, and multiple other regions worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Pre-Shipment Inspection
A pre-shipment inspection (PSI) is a quality control process conducted before goods are shipped to verify that they meet buyer specifications, regulatory standards, and contractual requirements. It helps prevent defects, delays, and disputes.
A PSI is typically performed when at least 80% of production is complete, and the goods are packed and ready for shipment. This timing ensures a thorough evaluation without causing delays in the supply chain.
The inspection assesses product quality, quantity verification, packaging integrity, labeling accuracy, carton markings, and functionality testing to ensure compliance with the buyer’s requirements.
AQL (Acceptance Quality Limit) sampling follows international standards, such as ANSI/ASQC Z1.4 (ISO 2859-1), to inspect a statistically determined number of units. This method ensures a fair and efficient evaluation while minimizing unnecessary costs.
Yes. A compliant inspection report helps meet regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of customs delays or rejections at the destination port.
At ECQA, we provide detailed inspection reports within 24 hours, allowing you to make timely and informed shipping decisions.
Even with a reliable supplier, a third-party inspection adds an extra layer of quality assurance and helps detect potential defects or inconsistencies that may otherwise go unnoticed.
You can contact ECQA directly to schedule an pre-shipment inspection based on your product type, location, and specific requirements. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure your order meets the highest standards.
Conduct pre-shipment inspection and streamline your supply chain with ECQA. Experience a stress-free, compliant, and quality-assured start to your production journey. Our team of audit experts is here to assist you every step of the way.
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