What Pre-shipment Inspection or Final Inspection for?
The Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI), also known as Final Random Inspection (FRI), is a quality control process conducted to confirm that finished products meet the client’s specifications and are properly packed for shipment.
It involves a systematic inspection of randomly selected samples from the order, typically carried out when production is fully completed and at least 80% of the goods are packed.
Pre-Shipment Inspection Standard
All PSI inspections follow the internationally recognized ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 (ISO 2859-1) statistical sampling procedure, which ensures random and representative selection of samples.
ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 (R2018): A widely used acceptance sampling system with switching rules for ongoing lots, applied according to the specified Acceptance Quality Limit (AQL).
ISO 2859-1:1999: Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes, indexed by AQL for lot-by-lot inspection.
The AQL standard is applied to determine both the sample size and the acceptable quality level of the shipment.
Once the inspection is completed at the factory (or another agreed location), our inspectors will issue an on-site draft report with a summary of findings to the supplier’s representative. The customer also receives the same-day inspection result, followed by a detailed report within 24 hours.
Our experienced quality inspectors, equipped with extensive training and hundreds of customizable inspection checklists across product categories, apply rigorous sampling methods. This ensures reliable quality control and helps you safeguard your imports with confidence.
Why Choose Topway Service?
Transparent, All-Inclusive Pricing – No hidden fees, one clear rate for all Pre-Shipment Inspection services.
Extensive QC Coverage Across Asia – We operate where your suppliers are, ensuring seamless quality control.
Flexible & Reliable Solutions – Third-party inspections tailored to your needs, delivering trusted results every time.
Why Book Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)? Is It Mandatory?
Today’s global marketplace offers endless opportunities — but it also comes with real risks. When sourcing from overseas suppliers, it’s vital to confirm that every product meets the specifications agreed in your contract. Failing to do so could jeopardize your products, customers, and reputation.
A Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) helps you:
Verify product quality before making the final payment.
Ensure the goods shipped match your requirements.
Identify defects and their percentage within the batch.
Decide whether to accept, refuse, or request corrective action before shipment leaves the factory.
By detecting issues early, PSI inspections prevent unpleasant surprises on arrival and give you peace of mind that your order is safe, compliant, and ready for market.
What Does a Pre-Shipment Inspection Checklist Include?
A Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) is your last chance to take corrective action before goods leave the factory. To ensure nothing is overlooked, accredited inspectors work with a structured quality inspection checklist. This typically covers:
Order details – contract quantities and specifications
Packaging & labeling – packing method, materials, and compliance with labeling requirements
Storage conditions – how products are stored before shipment
Product quality – appearance, craftsmanship, and overall workmanship
Measurements & functions – size, dimensions, and functionality checks
Testing – functional and safety tests as required
Shipping marks & barcodes – barcode verification, shipping labels, and other marks
Client-specific requirements – any additional instructions from you
Advantages of Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) Services
Verify Specifications – Confirm your order is produced correctly before shipment.
Quality Assurance at Source – Avoid paying for defective or non-compliant goods.
Product Safety & Functionality – Ensure items meet safety standards and perform as intended.
Accurate Packaging & Labeling – Check shipping marks, labels, and packing methods are correct.
Reduced Returns & Complaints – Prevent defective shipments, protecting your brand reputation.
Lower Import Risks – Gain peace of mind when sourcing from distant overseas suppliers.
6 Steps of Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) Procedure
At Topway, our auditors conduct an on-site evaluation of your factory or supplier, helping you understand their reliability and qualification level. Each Supplier Qualification Audit is tailored to your specific needs, combining our standard framework with any additional requirements you may have.
Our audit checklist typically includes:
Step 1
Schedule and Conduct the Inspection at the Factory
Once the customer books a PSI with Topway Service and confirms the checklist details, our customer service team coordinates the inspection date with the factory. Well-trained inspectors are then dispatched to conduct the inspection on-site.
Step 2
Quantity Verification
Inspectors count the packed shipping cartons to ensure the quantity matches the client’s order. They also verify that transportation and packaging materials comply with the required standards.
Step 3
Random Sampling and Appearance/Workmanship Check
Using the internationally recognized statistical sampling standard ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 (ISO 2859-1), inspectors randomly select cartons based on the agreed Acceptance Quality Limit (AQL). All visible defects are recorded and classified as Critical, Major, or Minor according to pre-determined tolerance levels. The AQL is chosen to ensure fairness between buyer and manufacturer.
Step 4
Function and Safety Testing
Depending on the product type, inspectors perform relevant functional and safety tests. Examples include:
Garments, apparel, footwear: buttons, zippers, accessories, model fitting, seam strength, washing tests
Packaging: carton drop test, kneading test
Product quality: barcode scanning, odor check, rub test for logos/fabrics, color shade check, material GSM check, metal detection, fatigue tests, stitch density check
For mechanical, electrical, or electronic products, Topway provides detailed product-specific tests.
Step 5
Packaging, Packing, and Product Conformity Verification
Inspectors verify packaging, packing materials and methods, shipping marks, labels, dimensions, materials, color, and product markings.
For garments/textiles: ensure size measurements match the size chart.
For other products: check compliance with agreed specifications.
Step 6
Draft and Detailed Inspection Report
After the inspection, a draft report summarizing key findings, workmanship, and AQL is provided on-site.
A detailed report follows within 24 hours, including Pass/Pending/Fail results, full inspection findings, and clear photos for each inspection point, allowing you to see exactly why any issues were detected.
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