Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI): Verify Every PO Before It Ships

What is a pre-shipment inspection?

Answer: A pre-shipment inspection is a statistical quality-verification exercise performed at the factory when your order is finished and packed. A trained inspector pulls a random sample size (per AQL 2.5 tables), physically inspects each unit against your approved sample and technical spec, and produces a scored report.

A pre-shipment inspection is a statistical quality-verification exercise performed at the factory when your order is finished and packed. A trained inspector pulls a random sample size (per AQL 2.5 tables), physically inspects each unit against your approved sample and technical spec, and produces a scored report. If the defect count exceeds the AQL threshold, the batch fails and you have leverage to hold payment, demand rework or refuse shipment.

Why every importer needs PSI

Answer: 60% of first-time importers who skip PSI receive shipments with defect rates above 8% — high enough to wipe out margin. PSI catches problems while your goods are still at the factory and payment is still in your control.

60% of first-time importers who skip PSI receive shipments with defect rates above 8% — high enough to wipe out margin. PSI catches problems while your goods are still at the factory and payment is still in your control. It's the single highest-ROI spend in international sourcing: a $250 inspection routinely saves $5,000–$50,000 in rework, discounts or returns.

How our pre-shipment inspection works

Answer: Book online in 60 seconds. We dispatch a category-specialist inspector to the factory, complete the inspection in a single day, and email you the report by end of day next.

Book online in 60 seconds. We dispatch a category-specialist inspector to the factory, complete the inspection in a single day, and email you the report by end of day next. Every step is documented.

AQL 2.5 sampling explained

AQL (Acceptable Quality Limit) 2.5 is the industry-standard threshold for general consumer goods: up to 2.5% major defects tolerated. For a 3,000-unit order, a Level II inspection samples 125 units and accepts up to 7 major defects. If the count exceeds 7, the batch is rejected. Tighter AQL (1.0 or 1.5) is available for medical, electrical or premium retail SKUs.