Third-Party Inspection
Pre-shipment inspection (PSI)
The final check before goods leave the supplier and payment becomes difficult to recover. Quantity, conformity, packing and marking verified independently.
01What the service involves
Pre-shipment inspection is performed when production is complete and goods are packed or ready for packing. QUALITAS TR verifies quantity, product conformity on a statistical sample or 100%, workmanship, function where applicable, packing, marking and shipping documents.
Sampling normally follows ISO 2859-1 with AQL values agreed in the purchase order. Industrial products often add specific checks: dimensions on critical characteristics, coating thickness, thread gauging or functional tests.
02Why buyers need it
PSI is the last point at which the buyer can stop nonconforming goods without shipping, customs and return costs. It is frequently linked to payment terms or letters of credit.
For buyers who cannot inspect throughout manufacturing, PSI provides essential minimum assurance.
03Typical applications
- Series parts and components
- Hardware, fasteners and fittings
- Consumer and industrial products
- Spare parts shipments
- Shipments linked to letters of credit
- Re-inspection after rejection
04Methodology
Order review
PO, specification, approved sample and packing instructions reviewed; AQL plan confirmed.
Quantity
Quantity and packing count checked against the packing list.
Sampling
Random sample drawn from the lot according to the plan.
Inspection
Visual, dimensional, functional checks; defects classified.
Verdict
Pass, fail or pending with report and photographs, usually within 24 hours.
05Applicable standards and references
ISO 2859-1 defines sampling plans indexed by AQL for lot-by-lot inspection. The plan determines sample size and acceptance numbers; it does not define what counts as a defect, which must be agreed in the inspection criteria.
06Deliverables
- PSI report with verdict
- Sampling plan record
- Defect classification and photographs
- Packing and marking check
- Shipping document check
07Customer benefits
- Nonconforming goods stopped before shipment
- Evidence for payment or LC release
- Lower return and rework costs
- Supplier accountability
- Quick turnaround
08How QUALITAS TR supports you
Use our AQL calculator to see the sample size and acceptance numbers for your lot size before booking an inspection.
Frequently asked questions
When should a pre-shipment inspection be booked?
When at least 80% of the order is finished and packed, so a representative sample can be drawn. Book a few days in advance to confirm readiness.
What happens if the lot fails?
The supplier sorts or reworks, and a re-inspection is performed. The buyer decides whether goods may ship; QUALITAS TR does not waive criteria on your behalf.