PRACTICAL CHINA SOURCING
What can a pre-shipment inspection in China check?
The short answer
A pre-shipment inspection checks an identified shipment at an agreed location against approved specifications and a written inspection or sampling scope. It can document selected product, quantity and packaging checks. Its conclusion covers the work performed and the goods examined; it is not a guarantee of every unit, certification, customs clearance or delivery.
Prepare the inspection brief before the visit
Supply the order and SKU quantities, current specifications, approved sample reference, packaging and label requirements, and agreed functional checks. Define defects and the decision criteria before inspection. Confirm the address, production and packing readiness, access to the goods, and who will receive the report. Leave time for corrections and any agreed reinspection before dispatch.
- Identify the shipment, lots and variants included.
- Agree how units will be selected and which checks apply to how many units.
- List equipment, specialist tests and checks excluded from the visit.
- Name the buyer's decision maker and the agreed release procedure.
Write a checklist that can be measured
| Area | Possible agreed check | Limit to record |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Model, dimensions, visible workmanship and approved reference | Which units and characteristics were examined |
| Function | Defined operation or assembly test | Test duration, conditions and available equipment |
| Quantity | Cartons, units or set components against the order | Counted, sampled or supplier-stated quantities |
| Packaging | Protection, labels, shipping marks and packing configuration | Opened cartons and packaging checks actually performed |
Understand what a sample result means
Acceptance sampling supports a lot decision from selected units; it does not establish that every unit is defect-free. If an AQL plan is proposed, agree the applicable standard and edition, lot definition, selection method, sample size, defect categories and acceptance criteria. ISO 2859-1:2026 describes AQL-indexed schemes for lot-by-lot inspection; it is not a universal default for every first order.
Keep separate tasks visible
A supplier audit examines a different question from a shipment check. Laboratory testing, destination compliance review and loading supervision need their own agreed scope where required. A visual check cannot substantiate every material or safety claim. An inspection before dispatch does not establish how cargo will be handled later or guarantee arrival. TruNexo is not the exporter, importer or customs broker.
Use the findings to make a recorded decision
Read the defect photos, measurements, checked quantities and limitations alongside the conclusion. If goods were inaccessible or a test could not be performed, record that as unverified. A report should distinguish findings from supplier explanations. Do not reduce an incomplete report to a simple pass label.
- List each mismatch, the requested correction and the responsible party.
- Agree whether correction evidence or another inspection is needed, with its cost and timing.
- Record the buyer's release decision under the accepted purchase terms; inspection does not rewrite payment terms.
What is TruNexo's published scope?
The public guide starts from US$180 plus travel for one agreed shipment and location, against approved specifications and a written inspection or sampling scope. Testing and other third-party costs are separate unless the accepted scope includes them. Actual capacity and the written quotation control the task. Paid work cannot begin until applicable readiness and contracting requirements are completed and approved.
Common questions
Does a passing inspection guarantee certification or customs clearance?
No. Product testing, documentation and destination requirements need their own review. The inspection conclusion applies only to its agreed checks and evidence.
Is every unit checked?
Only if the accepted scope expressly requires it. A sampling inspection examines selected units; the report should identify the sample and the checks performed.
Can I request an inspection for a supplier I already found?
You may send the shipment details for a fit review. Acceptance depends on scope, access, capacity and completed applicable requirements; an inquiry does not commission the inspection.