The 4 types of quality inspection in China: when to use each one

Not all quality inspections are carried out at the same time or look for the same things. Knowing the four main types used in China allows you to catch problems while they can still be fixed, instead of discovering them when the goods are already in the container on their way to Spain.

1. Pre-production inspection (PPI)

It is carried out before manufacturing begins, or when production is between 0% and 10% complete. Its purpose is to check the raw materials, the components and the line setup before it is too late.

• Verifies that the raw materials and components match what was agreed.
• Confirms that the factory understands your specifications.
• It is especially useful with new suppliers or custom products.

2. During production inspection (DUPRO)

The DUPRO inspection is carried out when between 20% and 60% of the order has been manufactured. It is the ideal moment to correct deviations: if something is being done wrong, there is still production left to put it right.

• Detects recurring defects in the middle of the production run.
• Identifies the root cause and prevents the fault from being repeated across the whole batch.
• Reduces the risk of ending up with an entire defective order at the end.

3. Pre-shipment inspection (PSI)

This is the final inspection, when production is 100% complete and at least 80% is packed. It is based on random sampling (ISO 2859 standard / AQL tables) to assess the batch without checking item by item.

• Checks functionality, dimensions, finishes, labelling and packaging.
• Classifies defects as critical, major and minor.
• It is the last chance to stop a shipment that does not comply.

4. Container loading check (Loading Check)

It is carried out at the factory on the day of loading. It supervises that exactly what has been inspected is loaded, and that it is done correctly.

• Verifies the quantities and references loaded.
• Controls the condition of the container and the stowage.
• Prevents goods mix-ups and damage caused by poor loading.

Which one do you need?

For a simple order with a trusted supplier, a PSI is usually enough. For technical products, large orders or new suppliers, combining PPI + DUPRO + PSI greatly reduces the risk. The rule is simple: the sooner you detect the problem, the cheaper it is to solve.

With R'S WARE, these procedures are easier

Coordinating inspections from Spain, in a different time zone and a different language, is complicated. At R'S WARE we are on the ground in China: we plan the right type of inspection for your product, send our team to the factory and deliver a clear report with photos and AQL results before the goods leave. You make decisions based on data; we take care of the control.