Quality Control & Product Inspection in China

Inspection starts before the inspection day

An inspector can carry out a focused inspection only when the applicable version has been made clear in advance. We therefore link the inspection to drawings, specifications, photographs, colour or material references, an approved sample and the relevant contract schedules.

Vague terms such as “good quality”, “neatly finished” or “to European standards” are not usable inspection criteria. Measurable or visibly comparable characteristics are.

Possible inspection stages

• Sample inspection — assessment of a first unit or component before a larger order.
• During-production inspection — inspection at a stage when materials, construction or processes can still be assessed and corrections remain possible.
• Final inspection before dispatch — inspection of finished products, quantities, visible finish, functions within the test scope, labels and packaging.
• Loading inspection — inspection of quantities, packaging and the loading process within a separately agreed scope. This is not the same as a full product inspection.

What can be inspected?

The precise list differs by sector. Possible points include:

1. Model, quantities and dimensions.
2. Visible materials, colour and finish.
3. Hardware, components and accessories.
4. Movement or functions that can be tested safely and practically on site.
5. Markings, labels and supplied documents.
6. Packaging, protection and identification of each component.

Not every material, internal component, future performance issue or hidden defect can be established during a visual or sampling inspection. This limitation is stated in the inspection scope.

From finding to decision

Discrepancies are described and, where possible, substantiated with photographs, measurements and references to the approved specification. The report distinguishes between inspected points, observed discrepancies and points that could not be established.

CONSOO & CO does not approve a discrepancy on your behalf. You decide, partly on the basis of the contract, whether the factory must rectify it, supply missing items, submit the products for a further inspection or take another course of action.

Contract and inspection reinforce one another

The inspection report records the factual situation. The contract determines what the parties agreed and which next step applies when a discrepancy arises. Without a clear specification, both inspecting and enforcing agreements become more difficult.

What you receive

1. A pre-agreed inspection scope.
2. An inspection checklist linked to the available project documents.
3. A report with findings, images and measurements within the scope.
4. An overview of discrepancies and points that could not be inspected.
5. Information to support a decision on dispatch, rectification or reinspection.

Frequently asked questions

Does quality control guarantee that the product is flawless? No. An inspection provides information about the products and inspection points examined at the time of inspection. Hidden defects, future wear and characteristics that were not examined are not automatically covered.

Can an inspection take place without a contract? It can, but an inspection is stronger when the agreed version and the consequences of discrepancies are recorded in writing. Otherwise, it may be clear that something differs while uncertainty remains about what was legally agreed.

What happens if the products fail inspection? The findings are presented to you. Rectification, replacement, a price adjustment, reinspection or another next step depends on your decision and the agreements with the factory.

Related: start with supplier and factory sourcing in China, coordinate consolidation and global logistics, or see construction and interior sourcing from China.

Discuss your trade enquiry — record what must be inspected before dispatch.