📚 China import course

Many new importers believe that a good sample means the bulk order will be of the same quality. That is a common and dangerous mistake.

What is quality control (QC)?
A professional inspector visits the factory before the goods are shipped to verify:
- That the goods match the agreed specifications
- That the quantity is correct
- The quality of packing and packaging
- Whether the production batch has defects or problems

When do you need a quality inspection?
- For any order above USD 3,000–5,000
- With any new supplier
- For sensitive products (electronics, children's clothing)

Quality inspection options

1. Self-inspection: if you are in China, you can visit the factory yourself

2. Professional inspection companies:
- SGS: the largest inspection company in the world
- Bureau Veritas
- Intertek
- TÜV
- Cost: USD 150–400 per inspection visit (one full working day)

3. A Chinese buying agent: if you have a trusted agent, they can visit on your behalf

Types of quality inspection
- PSI (Pre-Shipment Inspection): before shipping, with 80–100% of production complete
- DPI (During Production Inspection): midway through production
- FRI (Final Random Inspection): a random sample from the complete batch

The result: a detailed report with photos and notes within 24–48 hours.