Sample AQL inspection report: what a reliable pre-shipment check looks like
Many importers hear “we check quality” but still do not know what they receive. This page shows the structure of a typical AQL report: which information gets documented, which photos matter and when goods are released or blocked.
Resource · For retailers, buyers and quality owners
What the report should contain
A good inspection report is not a photo album but a decision document. It connects order, product, inspection scope, sample size, defect classification and a clear release recommendation. The inspection must match the order specification: dimensions, colour, packaging, labels, function, accessories and documents.
- Order data: supplier, PO, SKU, quantity, production status
- Sampling according to AQL/ISO 2859 with defined inspection level
- Defect classes: critical, major, minor — with concrete examples
- Photo documentation of product, packaging, label, carton and deviations
- Release decision: pass, rework, sort or block
Why photos alone are not enough
Supplier photos usually show the best corner of the goods. An AQL report documents random samples from finished cartons and counts deviations. Only the combination of measurements, function checks and defect counts makes the decision reliable.
Which release decisions make sense
Not every minor defect stops a shipment. But critical defects, wrong labels, missing certificate references, unsafe packaging or systematic production issues must be clarified before balance payment. That is the purpose of inspection: solve problems in China before freight and customs make them expensive.
Common questions about AQL reports
Is AQL a guarantee of defect-free goods?
No. AQL is a sampling method and significantly reduces risk, but it does not replace 100% inspection. For safety-critical products we define additional tests.
When should the inspection happen?
Ideally when at least 80% is produced and a large share is packed. Then production and shipping can still be stopped or reworked.
Can an existing supplier be inspected?
Yes. Send supplier, PO, specification and acceptance criteria; we coordinate the appointment directly with the factory.
Related topics
Plan inspection for your current order
Send PO, specification and supplier — we check whether a pre-shipment AQL inspection makes sense and is feasible quickly.