I received several emails recently from readers asking how they can increase their control over a Chinese supplier. They experience late shipments, unacceptable quality, and/or price increases mid-way through production. Sometimes they … [Read more...]
Checking quality takes more time in the factory
Checking quality in a factory always takes longer than in an importer's warehouse. Sometimes I give a quotation to a client, who replies "why do you charge 2 days? It would only take me 1 day!" I never like to be suspected by my clients, … [Read more...]
Inspection during production: a necessity?
The inspection during production (or "DUPRO") is the second most frequent type of QC inspection, after the final random inspection (see the list of the major types of quality inspection services). … [Read more...]
Final Random Inspection: A Guide For Importers
The final random inspection is by far the most popular QC service in China (see my last post, where I listed the other major types of quality inspection services). It is suitable for nearly all types of consumer goods purchased in Asia. … [Read more...]
Corruption of inspectors: the role of social pressure
Like in most business, most problems in the QC industry come from human factors. The main challenge to proper execution of our mission is without any doubt the risk of corruption of inspectors in factories. There are basically two types … [Read more...]
The 4 types of quality inspection services
Four types of quality inspection services are usually distinguished. Each one corresponds to a particular step in the production process. They are all part of the toolbox of every importer when it comes to buying in China and other low-cost … [Read more...]
China product quality: any improvement?
Some buyers ask me if China product quality is going up over time. It is a tough question. I am not going to badmouth Chinese factories in this post. They are certainly not the only ones to blame. A good proportion of quality issues in … [Read more...]
Checking the export cartons
The export cartons are the cartons handled during transport to the importing country. Many importers leave the cartons' specifications up to the supplier's choice, but in Asia this can be a big mistake. Properly-designed export cartons … [Read more...]
Chinese factory workers: it’s all their fault!
Chinese factory workers are often seen as the obstacle to higher quality, fewer working hours, and better safety measures. Let's study each of these issues separately: 1. Chinese factory workers, not capable of good workmanship? As I … [Read more...]
Statistical quality control tool: get a valid sampling plan
What is the difference between statistical quality control and unprofessional inspections? A professional inspector will follow a valid sampling plan. A sampling plan should take care of three fundamental concerns: There should be a … [Read more...]
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