Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)
Final release verification before goods leave the factory — random-sample inspection against the agreed specification.
What is pre-shipment inspection?
Pre-shipment inspection (PSI) is a quality-control method used to confirm that newly manufactured goods conform to the order before they leave the supplier. It covers both quantity — confirming that outgoing goods match the shipping documents — and quality — confirming that products meet documented requirements and have not suffered defects. By inspecting before dispatch, buyers can resolve issues and hold final payment until the report confirms conformity.
Inspection is carried out on randomly selected samples following internationally accepted sampling standards (ANSI/ASQC Z1.4, ISO 2859-1) using the agreed AQL. Inspectors assess type identification, conformity, functionality, safety, dimensions, quantity, packaging, marking and overall workmanship against the agreed specification. PSI is typically performed once production is complete and at least 80% of the order is packed, to avoid cherry-picked samples.
Arotec Quality conducts PSI at the manufacturer's premises or point of dispatch, applying methodical checklists kept current with regional requirements. Reports are accurate and unbiased, backed by photographic evidence, and document passed and failed checks — giving buyers a defensible record and, where required, a certificate for customs clearance or release of payment under a letter of credit.
From order readiness to certificate
Order & readiness
Confirming production is complete and the order packed and ready for inspection.
Quantity & conformity
Verifying quantities, packaging, labelling and conformity of physical specifications.
Function & safety testing
Functional, mechanical and safety checks against the agreed requirements.
Report & certificate
Unbiased report with evidence and, where required, the PSI certificate.
PSI inspection levels
Inspection adapted to the stage of production, from first article to final packed consignment.
Need pre-shipment inspection?
Talk to Arotec Quality about verifying your goods before they ship.