Many importers spend weeks sourcing the right pet product factory—only to find that the goods arriving overseas differ in color, stitching, or packaging.
The truth is simple: quality inspection is your last defense before shipment. A solid inspection process saves time, cost, and reputation. This guide explains how to practically manage pre-shipment quality control when sourcing pet products from China.

1️⃣ Step 1: Confirm Your “Golden Sample”

Before production starts, always lock a Golden Sample — the final approved reference of your product’s materials, color, stitching, print, and packaging.
Send one to the supplier and keep one in your own office or with your inspection agent.

• Clearly label it: “Golden Sample – For QC Reference Only”

• Include date, buyer name, and product code

• Sign and stamp both copies (buyer + supplier)

2️⃣ Step 2: Set Up a QC Checklist

A QC checklist is a documented standard inspectors use on-site.
It should include:

• Product dimensions, weight, and tolerances

• Color / Pantone reference

• Stitching density (e.g., 8–10 stitches per inch)

• Material spec (fabric type, thickness, filler weight)

• Functional test points (zippers, buckles, Velcro)

• Packaging specs (carton size, label position, barcode accuracy)

• Drop test or pull test (for leashes, harnesses, toys)

3️⃣ Step 3: Schedule a Third-Party Inspection

Most buyers use third-party agencies like SGS, Intertek, or QIMA.
Common types:

• DPI (During Production Inspection): When 20–50% of goods are made

• PSI (Pre-Shipment Inspection): When 80–100% goods packed

• CLS (Container Loading Supervision): When products are loaded into the container

📊 According to the International Trade Centre (ITC), 72% of small importers face product-defect disputes due to lack of third-party inspection.
Source: International Trade Centre – SME Competitiveness Outlook 2024

4️⃣ Step 4: Apply the AQL Standard

AQL (Acceptable Quality Limit) defines how many defects are acceptable in a batch.
For pet products, most buyers choose:

• AQL 2.5 for Major defects

• AQL 4.0 for Minor defects

Defects are classified as:

• Critical: Unsafe, may harm pets → reject shipment

• Major: Visible, functional issues → rework or discount

• Minor: Cosmetic flaws → may pass with note

Reference: ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 Sampling Procedures4️⃣

5️⃣Step 5: Approve & Seal Shipment

Once inspection passes, the inspector or factory QC should:

• Seal cartons with tamper-evident tape or numbered seals

• Take photo/video proof of sealing and container loading

• Issue Inspection Report with “PASS” mark and summary of defects found

• Buyer confirms by email before factory ships

6️⃣ Step 6: Keep a QC Archive

Keep all inspection reports, photos, and test records by SKU or batch number.
This not only helps for repeat orders but also supports dispute resolution and ISO audits later.

✅ Conclusion

Quality control is not about distrust—it’s about protecting both buyer and supplier.
A clear QC process reduces miscommunication, improves consistency, and strengthens long-term cooperation.
When importing pet products from China, never skip the “inspection” step; it’s what keeps your brand reputation safe overseas.

Authoritative References Used

• International Trade Centre – SME Competitiveness Outlook 2024

• ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 Sampling Procedures

• American Pet Products Association (APPA) Industry Overview 2025