Pre-Shipment Quality Control
Before an export order ships, parts are checked for correct part numbers and labels, visible condition, packaging and quantity, with photo records. Third-party inspection can be arranged on request.
A consolidated export order may contain hundreds of line items from several manufacturers. Pre-shipment quality control is how we confirm that what goes into the container matches what you ordered. This page describes the checks carried out before shipment. For supplier selection and part data validation, see quality assurance.
What we check
1. Part number and label verification
Each line item is checked against the confirmed order:
- Part number on the product, box or label matches the order line
- Brand matches the brand quoted and confirmed
- Quantity per pack and unit of measure match the order (for example, a brake pad set versus a single pad)
- For batteries: model designation, voltage, capacity and terminal layout
- For tires: size, load index, speed rating, pattern and, where specified, date code
Where a supplier has superseded a part number or changed labeling since quotation, the item is held and you are asked to confirm before it ships.
2. Visual inspection
Items are inspected for visible issues that can be detected without disassembly or testing:
- Physical damage, deformation or corrosion
- Missing components in kits and assemblies
- Obvious manufacturing defects such as cracks, incomplete finishing or damaged threads
- Signs of prior use or repackaging
- Battery case damage or leakage; tire sidewall or bead damage
Visual inspection is carried out on a sampling or full basis depending on the product type, order size and buyer requirements. It does not replace functional or laboratory testing.
3. Packaging checks
Export shipments are handled several times between warehouse and final destination. We check that:
- Retail boxes are intact and suitable for onward sale
- Cartons are strong enough for stacking and are sealed and labeled
- Cartons are marked with order reference, carton number and, where requested, your shipping marks
- Heavy items are palletized or crated appropriately
- Wooden pallets and crates meet ISPM 15 requirements where solid wood packaging is used
- Batteries are packed and marked in line with applicable dangerous goods requirements
See shipping and logistics for packaging and documentation requirements.
4. Quantity counts
Quantities are counted by line item and reconciled against the order and the packing list. Any shortage from a supplier is reported before shipment, with the option to ship without the item, wait for stock, or accept an approved alternative.
5. Photo documentation
Photos are taken during inspection and loading. Typically these include representative items and labels, packed cartons and pallets, and container loading stages. Photos are shared with the buyer before or at shipment, and records are retained to support any later claims.
Third-party inspection
If your company, your customer or a tender requires independent inspection, a third-party inspection company can be arranged at your request. Points to note:
- The buyer selects or approves the inspection company and the scope of inspection
- Inspection fees are paid by the buyer unless otherwise agreed in writing
- The inspection date needs to be scheduled after goods are consolidated and before loading
- Some destinations operate mandatory pre-shipment inspection or conformity assessment programs; if yours does, tell us at the RFQ stage so the program's requirements can be built into the timeline
Handling nonconformities
When an item fails a check, it is not shipped as is. Depending on the issue, it is replaced from the supplier, replaced with an approved alternative after your confirmation, or removed from the shipment and credited. The final packing list reflects what was actually loaded.
What pre-shipment checks cannot do
Pre-shipment inspection reduces the risk of wrong, damaged or short-shipped goods. It cannot detect every internal or performance defect, and it is not a substitute for manufacturer warranties or testing required by your market. Where performance testing matters, specify the requirement and we will advise what documentation or inspection options exist.
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Will I receive photos before the container is loaded?
Photo documentation is taken during inspection and loading and shared with the buyer. If you need approval photos before loading, state that in your order so time is allowed for your review.
Who pays for third-party inspection?
Third-party inspection is arranged at the buyer's request and the inspection fee is paid by the buyer, unless a different arrangement is agreed in writing.
Are all items inspected individually?
Label and quantity checks cover every line item. The depth of visual inspection depends on product type and order size, and can be increased on request.