Pre-shipment inspection: why and how to arrange one

A pre-shipment inspection (PSI) is an independent quality check performed at the supplier's location before goods are packed and shipped. It is one of the most effective ways to prevent quality disputes.

Why You Need One

• Catching defects before shipping is 10x cheaper than handling returns or claims after delivery.
• Some countries require a PSI certificate for customs clearance (e.g., under government-mandated PSI programs).
• LC terms may require an inspection certificate from a recognized agency.

Types of Inspections

• During Production (DUPRO) — Checks progress and quality mid-production. Useful for catching systemic issues early.
• Pre-Shipment (Final Random) — The most common type. Performed when at least 80% of goods are packed. A random sample is inspected against your specifications.
• Container Loading — Verifies that the correct goods are loaded into the container in proper condition.

How to Arrange

1. Hire an inspection company (SGS, Bureau Veritas, Intertek, or local firms).
2. Provide your product specifications, acceptable quality levels (AQL), and the inspection checklist.
3. The inspector visits the factory and issues a Pass, Fail, or Pending report within 24 hours.

On Faktorist, you can request inspection services directly from the deal page. The platform connects you with vetted inspection agencies in the supplier's region.