Which Inspection Do You Need
Product inspection is a structured quality control activity used to verify that goods meet defined specifications at specific stages of the production process. Different stages involve different quality risks, which is why inspection effectiveness depends on correct timing.
This page helps you understand how inspection types align with production progress and identifies the inspection that typically applies based on where your order currently sits within the manufacturing and export supply chain.
Which Inspection Do You Need?
Each inspection type serves a different stage of production. Use this table to identify the right service for your shipment.
| Inspection Type | When It Happens | What Is Checked |
|---|---|---|
|
Supplier Audit
SA
|
Before placing an order, or periodically to monitor an existing supplier’s performance. | Factory capacity, quality management systems, certifications, social compliance, equipment, and workforce practices. |
|
Pre-Production Inspection
PPI
|
Before manufacturing begins, when raw materials and components arrive at the factory. | Raw material quality, component dimensions, factory readiness, and conformance to approved samples and specifications. |
|
During Production Inspection
DUPRO
|
When 10–60% of production is complete, while goods are still on the production line. | Workmanship, dimensional accuracy, color and material consistency, assembly quality, and early defect identification. |
|
Pre-Shipment Inspection
PSI
|
When at least 80% of production is complete and goods are ready to pack or already packed. | Product quantity, appearance, function, labeling, packaging integrity, and AQL sampling per ISO 2859-1. |
|
Container Loading Supervision
CLS
|
At the time of container loading, immediately before shipment departure. | Carton count and condition, loading sequence, container condition, seal number verification, and bill of lading alignment. |
Use the selector below
Select your current production stage to see the inspection type that typically applies at this point.
Which Inspection Do You Need?
Select your current production stage to see the recommended inspection.
Recommendation
By understanding each inspection stage and its purpose, buyers can build a more structured and effective quality control process across the supply chain. Applying inspections at the appropriate production stage helps reduce avoidable quality issues and supports more predictable delivery outcomes.
Once you have identified the inspection stage that applies to your order, the next step is to arrange the inspection. Learn more in our guide: How to Book a Product Inspection.
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