China Pre-Shipment Inspection

Pre-shipment inspection (PSI) in China is a quality control process that occurs before goods are shipped from a manufacturing facility or supplier in China to their destination, typically to an overseas buyer or importer. It is an essential part of international trade, especially when dealing with products manufactured abroad. The primary purpose of pre-shipment inspection is to ensure that the products meet the quality, safety, and regulatory standards specified by the buyer or the importing country before they are exported.

What will we do with China Pre-Shipment Inspection?

	Visual Inspection
Check for any visible defects, damages, or irregularities in the appearance of the products.

	Quantity Verification
Confirm that the correct quantity of products is ready for shipment as per the order.

	Conformity to Specifications
Verify that the products meet the specifications outlined in the purchase order or contract.

	Functionality Testing
Test the functionality of the products to ensure they perform as intended.

	Packaging Inspection
Check the packaging for any damage and ensure it is in compliance with shipping requirements.

	Labeling and Marking
Verify that all labels and markings on the products and packaging are accurate and in accordance with regulatory and customer requirements.

	Documentation Review
Ensure that all required documentation, including certificates, manuals, and quality records, is complete and accurate.

	Random Sampling
While not a 100% inspection, random sampling may be used to assess the quality of a representative portion of the shipment.

	Packing List Verification
Check that the items listed on the packing list match the actual contents of the shipment.

	Shipping Markings
Confirm that the shipping marks on the packaging are accurate and meet shipping and customs requirements.

FAQs about Pre-Shipment Inspection

1. Why is Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) important?
   • Pre-Shipment Inspection helps ensure that the products meet the agreed-upon quality standards, specifications, and quantity. It reduces the risk of receiving defective or substandard products, thereby protecting the interests of the buyer.
2. Who conducts Pre-Shipment Inspections?
   • Inspections are typically carried out by third-party inspection agencies or quality control professionals. These entities are independent of the buyer and the seller, providing an unbiased assessment.
3. What is the scope of Pre-Shipment Inspection?
   • The scope includes checking product specifications, quantity, packaging, labeling, and overall quality. It may also involve testing samples for functionality, safety, and compliance with relevant regulations.
4. When should Pre-Shipment Inspection be conducted?
   • Pre-Shipment Inspection is usually performed after the production is completed and before the goods are shipped. It ensures that any issues identified during the inspection can be addressed before the products leave the manufacturing facility.
5. How are samples selected for inspection?
   • Samples are typically chosen randomly to ensure a representative assessment of the entire batch. This randomness helps in detecting potential issues that might be present in the entire production run.
6. What happens if the products fail the inspection?
   • If the products fail the inspection, the buyer and seller must negotiate a resolution. This could involve reworking the defective products, providing replacements, or adjusting the terms of the agreement.
7. Can Pre-Shipment Inspection be skipped?
   • While it’s not mandatory, skipping pre-shipment inspection can be risky. It increases the likelihood of receiving substandard products, leading to potential financial losses and damage to the buyer’s reputation.
8. How long does Pre-Shipment Inspection take?
   • The duration depends on factors such as the complexity of the products and the size of the shipment. It typically ranges from a few hours to a couple of days.
9. Is Pre-Shipment Inspection only for international trade?
   • While it is commonly associated with international trade, pre-shipment inspection can also be beneficial for domestic transactions, especially when dealing with large quantities or complex products.