What is a DUPRO inspection?

DUPRO (During Production Inspection) is a quality check performed when 20–80% of the order is produced. It catches systemic defects early so corrective action can be taken before the full lot is finished.

When should DUPRO be scheduled?

The sweet spot is when 40–50% of the order is complete. Enough finished units exist to inspect, and there's still time for the factory to correct issues on the remaining production.

How is DUPRO different from final inspection?

DUPRO happens mid-production and is preventive — it stops bad units from being made. Final inspection (FRI) happens after 100% production and is corrective — it only catches what's already manufactured.

How many samples are inspected during DUPRO?

Typically AQL Level II is applied to the units finished so far. Inspectors also visit the production line to check workmanship, raw materials, and work-in-progress beyond just the finished sample.

Is DUPRO worth the cost for small orders?

Yes for first-time suppliers, custom products, or orders above ~$10,000. DUPRO costs $250–$350 per man-day in India but typically prevents 5–10× that in rework, replacements, or chargebacks.

Quality Control April 2026

During Production Inspection (DUPRO) Guide

The most underused and most valuable inspection type. DUPRO catches systemic quality issues mid-production — when there's still time and budget to fix them.

9 min read

What is DUPRO?

During Production Inspection (DUPRO) — also called inline inspection or in-process inspection — is conducted when 20–80% of production is complete. It's the quality check that catches problems while they can still be fixed without scrapping the entire order.

Unlike pre-shipment inspection (which is a pass/fail at the end), DUPRO is a corrective tool. If defects are found, the factory has time to adjust processes, retrain workers, or fix materials before the remaining 50–80% is produced.

DUPRO Inspection Checklist

Production progress matches schedule (20–80% complete)Critical

Workmanship quality on completed unitsCritical

Raw materials match approved sample/specificationCritical

Measurements on completed units within toleranceCritical

Production line setup and worker compliance

Defect rate trend — is it increasing or stable?Critical

Colour consistency across production batches

Packing materials available and per specification

Labels, hang tags, and barcodes ready and correct

Photos of production floor and sample units

When to Schedule DUPRO

20% Complete

Best for: Early detection of systemic issues

Note: Limited finished units to inspect

40–50% Complete

Best for: Ideal balance — enough finished units, time to correct

Note: Standard timing for most DUPRO

80% Complete

Best for: Last chance before full production completes

Note: Less time for corrective action

DUPRO vs Pre-Shipment Inspection

Factor	DUPRO	PSI
Timing	20–80% production	100% complete
Purpose	Corrective action	Pass/Fail decision
Can fix issues?	Yes — production ongoing	Limited — must rework
Cost savings	High — prevents mass defects	Lower — defects already made
Best for	New suppliers, complex products	Every shipment

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