What inspections should I arrange before a bulk shipment?
Updated: 2026-10-16
Short answer
The appropriate inspection depends on the product's value, complexity, safety risks, order size, and supplier history. Common options include pre-production checks, during-production inspections, pre-shipment inspections, laboratory testing, and container-loading supervision. Define the inspection criteria in advance and use a suitably qualified independent inspection company when the potential cost of defects justifies it.
Pre-Production Inspection
A pre-production inspection checks whether the supplier is ready to manufacture according to the agreed requirements. Depending on the product, the review may cover raw materials, components, approved samples, packaging, production plans, equipment, and quality-control procedures. It is especially useful for customized goods, products with strict tolerances, or orders where a mistake would be expensive to correct after production.
During-Production Inspection
A during-production inspection takes place after manufacturing has started but before the entire order is finished. Inspectors can examine workmanship, materials, dimensions, function, production consistency, and early defects. Finding problems at this stage may allow corrective action before the remaining units are produced. The inspection plan should specify when the supplier must be ready and which processes or production batches are included.
Pre-Shipment Inspection and Product Testing
A pre-shipment inspection commonly checks finished goods against the approved specifications and purchase order. Checks may include quantity, appearance, dimensions, workmanship, function, packaging, labels, markings, and the presence of required documents. Depending on the product, arrange separate laboratory tests for composition, contaminants, electrical safety, performance, or other regulated characteristics. A visual inspection cannot replace specialized laboratory testing when testing is required.
Container Loading and Shipment Checks
For products vulnerable to moisture, damage, theft, or incorrect loading, consider supervising the container or vehicle before dispatch. Record the container condition, cleanliness, seal number where applicable, loaded quantities, packaging condition, and loading method. Confirm that shipping marks, labels, package counts, and documents match the order and shipping instructions. These checks can help identify handling and quantity problems before the goods leave the supplier's control.
Agree on Inspection Criteria Before Production
Define the inspection stage, product specification, sampling approach, acceptance criteria, defect classifications, testing methods, report format, and corrective-action procedure in writing. If an acceptance quality limit or sampling standard is used, specify the applicable standard and level rather than leaving the inspector to choose one without agreement. Select an inspection provider with relevant technical competence and clarify whether the inspection result is a condition for shipment or payment. General guidance on pre-shipment inspection is available at https://www.trade.gov/trade-guide-wto-psi.