Factory inspections in India: choosing the right checkpoint
Pre-production, during-production, and pre-shipment checks answer different questions. Define the decision and evidence before choosing the inspection.
An inspection is useful when it is tied to a decision. The checkpoint depends on what can still be corrected and what evidence the buyer needs before payment or shipment.
Before production
A pre-production check can compare materials, approved samples, specifications, packaging requirements, equipment, and planned process with the purchase file.
Use it when the main risk is an incorrect input or a factory that is not ready. Record which materials and documents were observed; do not treat a short visit as proof that future production will follow the same setup.
During production
A during-production check examines completed and in-process units while correction is still possible. Define the required completion level, output records, workmanship checks, dimensions, tests, and schedule evidence.
This checkpoint is useful when the process itself creates risk or when waiting until the order is complete would leave too little time to correct a systemic issue.
Before shipment
A pre-shipment inspection compares finished goods with the agreed specification, quantity, labels, packaging, and sampling plan. It supports a release decision for the sampled lot. Individual units outside the sample can still fail.
ISO 2859-1:2026 defines AQL-indexed acceptance-sampling schemes for lot-by-lot inspection. If the parties use one, set lot size, inspection level, AQL, defect classes, sample size, and accept-or-reject numbers before the inspector arrives. The standard leaves commercial tolerance to the buyer.
Corrective follow-up
For every finding, record:
- Requirement and observed evidence
- Affected quantity or sample result
- Defect classification
- Corrective action and responsible party
- Proof required for closure
- Re-inspection or buyer-decision date
An issue list without an agreed closure test leaves the final payment decision unresolved.
Limits of an inspection
ISO/IEC 17020:2026 describes inspection as examining an item and determining conformity with specified requirements. That is different from product certification. A sample-based check also leaves residual defect, regulatory, delivery, and supplier risks.
Sources
- ISO, ISO 2859-1:2026, Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes, accessed July 28, 2026
- ISO, ISO/IEC 17020:2026, Requirements for bodies performing inspection, accessed July 28, 2026
Insights contain general business information and do not constitute legal, tax, customs, regulatory or technical advice.