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.

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Why production stage matters

Every inspection type serves a specific role.Using the correct inspection at the wrong time can limit its effectiveness or reduce your ability to take corrective action.

For example:

• Inspecting too late may leave no time for rework
  
• Inspecting too early may miss process-related defects
  
• Skipping early checks increases downstream risk

Understanding where you are in the production timeline allows inspection resources to be applied where they add the most value.

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Use the selector below

Select your current production stage to see the inspection type that typically applies at this point.

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Overview of inspection stages

Below is a brief explanation of how inspections align with the production timeline.

Supplier Audit (0%)

Used before placing orders or confirming a supplier.

This inspection evaluates factory capability, quality systems, documentation practices, and basic compliance readiness. It helps reduce supplier selection risk before production begins.

Typical situations:

• New supplier engagement
  
• High-value or regulated products
  
• Limited supplier visibility
  

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Pre-Production Inspection (0–10%)

Conducted before mass production starts.

This inspection verifies raw materials, components, approved samples, and production readiness. It is used to confirm alignment before defects are replicated at scale.

Typical situations:

• New product launch
  
• Custom specifications
  
• Tight production timelines
  

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During Production Inspection (10–60%)

Performed while production is ongoing.

This inspection focuses on workmanship consistency, process stability, and in-line defect trends. It allows corrective action before a large portion of the order is completed.

Typical situations:

• Medium to large production runs
  
• Products with workmanship sensitivity
  
• Multi-line or multi-shift production
  

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Pre-Shipment Inspection (60–80%+)

Conducted when production is completed and packing is largely finished.

This inspection verifies final product quality, quantity, packaging, labeling, and overall shipment readiness. It is commonly used as the last quality checkpoint before dispatch.

Typical situations:

• Export shipments
  
• Retail or brand compliance requirements
  
• AQL-based acceptance decisions
  

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Container Loading Supervision (100%)

Performed on the day of container loading.

This inspection verifies container condition, product identity, loading method, quantity, and seal integrity. It ensures that approved goods are loaded correctly and securely.

Typical situations:

• Full container shipments
  
• Mixed SKU loads
  
• High-value or damage-sensitive goods

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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.