What Is Pre-Shipment Inspection?
Pre-shipment inspection (PSI) is a quality control check conducted when 80-100% of production is complete and goods are packed for shipping. An inspector visits the factory to:
- Verify product quality against specifications
- Check packaging and labeling
- Count quantities
- Use AQL sampling to accept/reject the batch
Purpose: Catch problems before goods ship, when issues are easier and cheaper to fix.
When Do You Need PSI?
Always recommended when:
- First order from a new supplier
- Order value exceeds $3,000-5,000
- Product is complex or has safety requirements
- You've had quality issues before
- Customer requirements are strict
Can skip when:
- Established supplier with proven track record
- Very simple, low-value products
- Repeat orders with consistent quality history
- You have your own team in China
The PSI Process
1. Schedule inspection (2-3 days before ship date)
- Confirm 80-100% production complete
- Goods must be export-packed
- Book inspector through QC company or agent
2. Inspector arrives at factory
- Verifies quantity matches order
- Pulls random samples per AQL tables
- Inspects against your specifications
3. Inspection activities
- Visual inspection (workmanship, appearance)
- Dimensional checks (measurements)
- Functional tests (does it work?)
- Safety tests (if applicable)
- Packaging verification
- Labeling/barcode accuracy
4. Report delivered (usually same day or next morning)
- Pass/fail result
- Defect details with photos
- Quantity verification
- Recommendations
After the Inspection
If passed:
- Authorize shipment
- Release final payment (if applicable)
- Proceed with logistics
If failed:
- Review defect report in detail
- Discuss corrective actions with supplier
- Decide: rework, discount, or reject
- Schedule re-inspection after fixes
Cost of re-inspection: Usually 50-100% of original inspection fee.
Pro tip: Define pass/fail criteria with your supplier before production starts. This prevents disputes when issues arise.