Pre-Shipment Inspection China
Protect your final payment with independent pre-shipment inspection in China before shipment release.
CloudSpects gives importers a third-party checkpoint before final payment, supplier release, forwarder pickup, or container loading. Our China-based inspectors check product quality, packaging, labeling, AQL sampling, and quantity — with English photo reports in about 24 hours.
Use PSI when the supplier says production is ready
Verify the batch before you release balance payment or approve shipment. Inspection before final payment is your last leverage point with the supplier.
Check packaging, carton marks, product labels, FNSKU barcode scans, poly bag warnings, and receiving-critical details for Amazon FBA compliance.
Confirm the supplier can hold quality across batches using finished goods inspection and periodic AQL sampling, not only the first sample.
Inspection scope — what we check before you pay
- AQL sampling (ANSI ASQ Z1.4), workmanship, appearance, and defect classification (critical, major, minor).
- Basic function, dimensions, weight, accessories, SKU assortment, and FNSKU barcode scan.
- Retail packaging, master cartons, carton marks, barcodes, and FBA label placement.
- Quantity verification against PO, packing list, and shipment plan — catch shortages before final payment.
- Photo report with pass/fail/rework recommendation in about 24 hours.
- Optional container loading check when shipment release is the next risk point — container loading inspection China.
Inspection before final payment — why it matters
Your final payment is the strongest leverage you have with a Chinese supplier. Once you release it, rework requests lose urgency and defect negotiations become harder. A pre-shipment inspection before final payment gives you:
- Independent evidence of product quality before you send the balance
- Photo documentation to support rework or discount requests
- Confidence that the batch matches the approved sample
- A clear pass/fail decision point tied to your payment terms
Without third-party inspection China at the finished goods stage, you rely entirely on the supplier's own quality claim — which is the same supplier asking for payment.
AQL inspection China — sampling explained
We use AQL (Acceptable Quality Limit) sampling based on ANSI ASQ Z1.4 standards. Instead of inspecting every unit, a statistically significant sample is checked. Typical AQL levels for general consumer goods:
- AQL 2.5 for major defects (workmanship, function, missing parts)
- AQL 4.0 for minor defects (cosmetic issues, small scratches)
- AQL 0 for critical defects (safety, regulatory, compliance)
Use our AQL calculator to determine sample size for your shipment.
Pre-shipment inspection: step by step
Share the factory address, product description, quantity, and preferred date. We confirm scope and schedule within hours.
Our China-based inspector visits the factory, applies AQL sampling, checks workmanship, packaging, labels, quantity, and captures photo evidence.
You receive an English photo report in about 24 hours with clear pass/fail/rework findings.
Use the report to release final payment, request supplier rework, or negotiate a discount before the container ships.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pre-shipment inspection and during production inspection?
During production inspection (DPI) checks the first 10-20% of production to catch issues early while rework is still possible. Pre-shipment inspection (PSI) checks the finished batch before shipment — this is the inspection that protects your final payment. Many importers use both. See our PSI vs DPI comparison for details.
How much does pre-shipment inspection in China cost?
CloudSpects pricing starts from $169 per man-day for standard inspections in major China hubs (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Yiwu, Ningbo, Shanghai). The final quote depends on shipment size, product complexity, and location. See our inspection pricing page for details.
What happens if the pre-shipment inspection fails?
If the batch fails inspection, you receive a detailed report with defect photos and rework recommendations. You can hold final payment, request the supplier to rework specific items, schedule a re-inspection after rework, or negotiate a discount. Read our guide: what happens if pre-shipment inspection fails.
Can I get a China inspection report in 24 hours?
Yes. CloudSpects typically delivers English photo reports with pass/fail/rework findings in about 24 hours after the inspection visit. Express reports are available for urgent shipment decisions.