Quality problems in imported goods are usually not about a “bad factory” — they are about unclear expectations. Here is how professional programs stay consistent.
The three stages of inspection
- IQC (incoming): raw material certificates are checked against your spec.
- IPQC (in-process): critical dimensions are measured during production.
- FQC (final): finished goods are sampled against AQL and your sign-off sample.
Reports you should receive
Ask for dimensional measurement reports, material certificates, surface finish records, and photos of representative parts. A reliable supplier will provide them without being asked twice.
Set acceptance criteria early
Define the critical dimensions, acceptable surface defects and AQL level in writing before mass production. Sign-off samples then become the reference for every inspection — no ambiguity, no disputes.
What to do with defects
Agree on the response process in advance: rework, replacement, or a corrective action plan with root cause analysis. The goal is to fix the process, not just the parts.