Pre-Shipment Inspections by a Third Party: Why They're Essential (Simple Guide)
You've designed the product, approved the samples, and waited weeks for production.
Now the factory says everything is ready to ship.
Great – but don't book the container just yet.
Before your products leave the factory, you need a pre-shipment inspection (PSI) done by a third party. This is the final – and most important – quality checkpoint in the entire manufacturing process.
Let's break down what it is, how it works, and why skipping it is one of the biggest sourcing mistakes brands make.
What Is a Pre-Shipment Inspection?
A pre-shipment inspection is a detailed quality check done after production is complete but before the goods are shipped.
A third-party inspector visits the factory and checks:
Think of it as your "final line of defense" before the product is out of your control.
A third-party inspector visits the factory and checks:
- Product quality
- Workmanship
- Measurements
- Functionality
- Packaging
- Labelling
- Carton quantifies
- Barcodes
- Safety
- Any custom requirements you have
Think of it as your "final line of defense" before the product is out of your control.
Why Use a Third Party
Most Chinese factories are focused on:
This isn't malicious – this is how the system works.
That's why importers should treat QC as non-negotiable, not optional.
- Speed
- Efficiency
- Hitting production deadlines
This isn't malicious – this is how the system works.
That's why importers should treat QC as non-negotiable, not optional.
Why Use a Third Party?
Unbiased Reporting
Factories want to pass inspections.
Third-party inspectors want to report the truth.
Their is not to protect the factory – only to report what they see.
Third-party inspectors want to report the truth.
Their is not to protect the factory – only to report what they see.
More Detailed Testing
Inspectors perform specific checks like:
- Drop tests
- Pull tests
- Seam strength tests
- Colour comparison
- Fit checks
- Functional testing for electronics
It Saves You Money
A failed PSI prevents:
- Returns
- Customer complaints
- Shipping back and forth
- Amazon penalties
- Wasted inventory
How a Pre-Shipment Inspection Works
The process is simple:
Step 1: You book the inspection. Typically when production hits 80-100%
Step 2: Inspector goes to the factory. They test a random sample using AQL (Acceptable Quality Limits).
Step 3: They check packaging & labels. Incorrect labels can get goods held at customs.
Step 4: You receive a detailed report. With photos, defect lists, pass/fail results, and recommendations.
Step 5: You decide: ship or fix? If it fails, the factory must rework the goods (or compensate you).
Step 1: You book the inspection. Typically when production hits 80-100%
Step 2: Inspector goes to the factory. They test a random sample using AQL (Acceptable Quality Limits).
Step 3: They check packaging & labels. Incorrect labels can get goods held at customs.
Step 4: You receive a detailed report. With photos, defect lists, pass/fail results, and recommendations.
Step 5: You decide: ship or fix? If it fails, the factory must rework the goods (or compensate you).
Common Issues Found During PSIs
- Leaking bottles
- Broken zippers
- Uneven seams
- Misaligned prints
- Missing accessories
- Incorrect quantities
- Wrong fabrics
- Chipped paint
- Incorrect branding
When Should You Skip a PSI?
Almost never.
The only time skipping a PSI is okay is when:
The only time skipping a PSI is okay is when:
- The order is extremely low value
- The product is extremely simple
- You've worked with that factory for years
- You performed a detailed inline inspection
The Sourcing Co can help with Pre-Inspection Shipments
Manufacturing in China can be incredibly successful – but only when quality is managed proactively.
Explore our capabilities:
Contact The Sourcing Co today to support your production from start to finish.
Explore our capabilities:
Contact The Sourcing Co today to support your production from start to finish.