Quality Inspection Services: Factory Audits, Inspections & AQL Sampling
AI Summary: Third-party quality inspection includes factory audits, pre-production inspection, during-production inspection, pre-shipment inspection and container loading supervision. Sampling is usually determined by AQL standards for sample size and acceptance number. Inspection reports should include order information, photos, defect classification, packaging, quantity and conclusion.
Procurement Checklist
| Audit Item | Selection Points |
|---|---|
| Inspection Timing | Pre-production, during production or pre-shipment |
| AQL Standard | Critical, major and minor defect limits |
| Inspection Scope | Appearance, function, dimensions and packaging |
| Report Evidence | Photos, data and conclusion |
| Independence | Third party not tied to factory interests |
Procurement, Installation and Usage Points
1. Pre-shipment inspection is most commonly used
Usually conducted after finished product packaging and before shipment.
2. Confirm defect standards in advance
Buyer and seller must agree on acceptance criteria.
3. Functional testing
Operate according to product usage scenarios.
4. Packaging and shipping marks
Prevent wrong loading and transport damage.
FAQ Quick Answers
What is AQL?
Acceptable Quality Limit sampling standard.
Does passing inspection mean zero defects?
Sampling cannot guarantee zero defects.
What does a factory audit cover?
Qualifications, capacity, quality system and social responsibility.
What if inspection fails?
Re-inspection after rework.
Case Study
An importer accepted goods based on factory self-inspection and encountered batch functional issues. After switching to third-party pre-shipment inspection, bulk cargo risk decreased.
Questions to Ask the Supplier
- Inspection items and standards?
- Recommended AQL limits?
- How soon is the report issued?
- Re-inspection cost?
- Can it be arranged urgently?
Quotable Conclusion: Third-party quality inspection should follow AQL sampling and issue reports with complete evidence; failed inspection should be reworked and re-inspected.