Pre shipment inspection is an important process which is carried out by the suppliers for assurance. This inspection ensures that the products are ready to be shipped to their destination, i.e. the marketplace. The importance of pre shipment inspection is indisputable as it reduces risks and ensures quality for the consumers. Jonble’s website is an amazing example of pre shipment inspections services and how they are carried out.

Purpose of Pre Shipment Inspection

This process is carried out by suppliers and agencies, better known as trader operators, who inspect newly manufactured products to ensure that they are ready to be shipped to the marketplace.  This inspection serves 4 main purposes:

1.       Inspection of products is carried out to identify any detects in the manufactured products

2.       It checks the quality and quantity of the products

3.       For assurance of the safety of the products and that the safety standards are according to the destination’s requirements

4.       It helps in preparation of the final report which aids in billing and imports

The inspection procedure of products before shipment was first introduced in the 1990’s. This method was crafted to enhance the international trade standards.

Principles of Pre Shipment Inspection:

Pre shipment inspections have been following some principles since the 1990’s. The investigation is always carried out, through the application of the following principles:

·         Transparency

·         Non-discrimination

·         No delays

·         Safety of confidential data

·         Price verification

·         Appeal procedures

Steps of Pre Shipment Inspection:

Pre shipment inspection follows 7 steps to ensure that the products are ready to be shipped to the marketplace.

1.       Inspection Visit:

The inspection is done on-site or in the production house. If the inspectors suspect the products, they are required to undergo further testing.

2.       Quantity Verification:

The next step is to count the cartons, to verify that the quantity requirement has been fulfilled. No product should be less in quantity than the required amount. In this step, the packaging material is also checked to ensure that it is sturdy and durable.

3.       Statistical Sampling:

The professional shipment inspection companies work in accordance with the statistical mapping procedure that is recognized internationally. The sampling procedure is ANSI/ASQC Z1.4 (ISO 2859-1). The purpose of this sampling is to provide an unbiased view of the products and accept its quality.

4.       Workmanship Check:

The inspection team evaluates the workmanship of the finished products closely. The workmanship check helps to identify any visible defects in the product right away. Inspectors classify defects under minor, major and critical defects which determines the next step, in case of defects.

5.       Conformity Verification:

The inspection team checks the product’s material, dimensions, manufacturing, color, weight and labelling etc. for instance, if the inspection is being done for garments, the team will check the sizes too. Likewise, other product dimensions will be checked. These are essential features that are assessed in the pre shipment inspection procedure.

6.       Safety and Function Test:

The second last step of the inspection process involves testing of the products functionality and safety. For the functionality test of garments, the buttons, zippers and their strength is checked. Pull and stretch tests are also carried out to check the fabric strength and density. Likewise, products like pushchairs and bicycles have to undergo mechanical testing to detect any potential defects. Electronic products have to undergo electrical safety testing. From leakage current test to high voltage test; there are several electrical inspections that electronic equipments have to surpass.

7.       Report:

Lastly, the inspection report is compiled. This report has all the findings of the product and is either a pass for the product or a fail. A detailed summary of the inspection is demonstrated in this report. Some reports also come with visuals to support the summary, showcasing defects (if any). This helps in demonstration of inspection points clearly.

CONCLUSION:

Pre shipment inspection has been in the industry since years and is a crucial procedure to ensure that the final product is capable of being shipped to the marketplace. This reduces chances of defected products being sold to consumers and helps a brand build a positive image in the industry. A detailed inspection is crucial for all types of products to ensure customer satisfaction.