Survey Services in China: Inspection and Control

Quality Survey Services in China: Independent Inspection of Goods, Quality Control and Product Certification from Experienced Surveyors

Importing goods from China offers a wide range of business opportunities, but it also carries significant risks related to product quality and supplier reliability. Professional survey services are becoming the tool that minimizes these risks and ensures the safety of your investments. In this article, we will take a closer look at how independent inspectors work in China, what types of inspections they carry out, and why their services are critical to successful imports.

1. Why does an importer need survey services in China?

1.1 Why does an importer need survey services in China?

In today's international trade environment, quality control of imported goods is of paramount importance. Survey services play a critical role in the supply chain from China, providing independent control at all stages - from production to receipt of goods by the customer. Expert surveyors carry out a comprehensive quality control , the quantity and compliance of products with the declared specifications, which allows importers to be sure that they will receive exactly what they paid for .

Without professional surveyor control, the importer risks the supply of low-quality goods, non-compliance with the declared characteristics or even outright fraud. Such control is especially relevant when working with a new Chinese supplier for the first time or when ordering large batches of goods, where financial risks are especially high.

1.2 Main risks when working with Chinese suppliers

When importing goods from China, entrepreneurs face a number of serious risks that can significantly affect the success of business operations:

Risk of fraud. Unscrupulous suppliers may provide false information about product quality, payment terms, or use various payment schemes. For example, they may report an alleged change in the bank account and offer to transfer money directly to their company's account .Professional surveyors help to check the reliability of the supplier and prevent fraudulent activities.

Risk of receiving low-quality goods. When working with unverified suppliers, there is a high probability of receiving products of poor quality or with defects, which will differ significantly from the original samples .Survey inspection allows you to identify deviations in quality before the shipment of goods.

Risk of delays in delivery. Logistical problems can significantly increase delivery times, which is especially critical for seasonal goods or with limited warehouse capacity .Surveyors control the timeliness of the preparation of goods for shipment and compliance with contractual deadlines.

Risk of customs and legal problems. Non-compliance of the goods with the characteristics stated in the documents can lead to problems during customs clearance .Survey control helps to ensure that products and accompanying documents fully comply with the requirements of both the country of origin and the country of destination.

2. Who is a surveyor and what does he do?

2.1 Concept and key responsibilities

The term "surveyor" comes from the English word "surveyor" and refers to a specialist who carries out independent control of the quality and quantity of goods .Surveyors are experts who have specialized knowledge and experience in the field of inspection of various types of products.

The main task of the surveyor is to make sure that the cargo meets the declared parameters, is correctly packed and securely placed in the vehicle for safe transportation .The surveyor acts as an independent third party, representing the interests of the inspection customer and ensuring an objective assessment of the goods.

The surveyor's key responsibilities include:

• Inspection of goods at a manufacturing facility in China
• Checking the readiness of products for transportation
• Control of labeling and packaging before departure
• Inspection of vehicles and determination of their readiness for cargo transportation
• Inspection of the technical condition of containers
• Monitoring during loading and unloading
• Fixing damage to goods and assessing the damage caused
• Checking the conditions of storage and warehousing of cargo
• Sampling for laboratory testing
• Tally Count (Exact Quantity Count)
• Sealing of containers, wagons and vehicles

2.2 What is the difference between independent inspection and internal control of the manufacturer

Independent inspection carried out by surveyors is fundamentally different from internal quality control at the manufacturer. While internal control is carried out by employees of the manufacturing company and may be influenced by corporate interests, an independent surveyor acts exclusively in the interests of the customer of the inspection.

The main differences include:

Objectivity of assessment. An independent surveyor is not connected with the manufacturer by financial or administrative relations, which ensures the impartiality of his assessments and conclusions .

Professional Methodology. Survey companies apply international inspection standards and methodologies, which may differ from internal control procedures at the enterprise .

Documentary evidence. Reports of independent surveyors are more important in the settlement of disputes, insurance events and customs clearance, since they are drawn up by an impartial party .

An integrated approach. Unlike internal control, which most often focuses on production aspects, a survey covers the entire life cycle of a product – from production to delivery to the final recipient .

3. Stages and types of inspections

3.1 Pre-Production Audit (Factory Audit)

Pre-production audit is the first and one of the most important stages of quality control when working with Chinese suppliers. This type of inspection is carried out before the start of production of the order and is aimed at assessing the production capabilities and working conditions in the enterprise.

Verification of factory conditions and certificates

As part of the pre-production audit, surveyors check:

• Availability and authenticity of quality certificates (ISO, CE, FDA and others)
• Compliance of production premises with sanitary standards and safety requirements
• Storage conditions for raw materials and finished products
• Internal quality control system at the enterprise

Particular attention is paid to verifying the authenticity of the submitted certificates, as some unscrupulous suppliers may use fake documents to attract customers.

Assessment of production capacities and personnel qualifications

At this stage, surveyors also evaluate:

• Technical capabilities of the equipment and its compliance with the stated production tasks
• Qualification and experience of production personnel
• General organization of the production process
• The ability of the enterprise to fulfill the order within the declared time and with the required level of quality

A pre-production audit allows you to identify potential problems and risks associated with the choice of a particular manufacturer in advance and make an informed decision on the feasibility of cooperation.

3.2 In-Process Inspection (IPQC)

In-Process Quality Control (IPQC) is carried out directly during the manufacture of products and is aimed at identifying problems at an early stage, when their correction requires minimal costs and does not affect delivery times.

Sample control at every stage

Surveyors visit the production site at key stages of production to conduct random inspections. During such an inspection:

• The compliance of the materials used with the order specifications is checked
• Compliance with production technology is monitored
• Deviations from the agreed samples are detected
• The quality of intermediate results of the production process is evaluated

This type of inspection is especially important for complex products, where the quality of the final product depends on the correct performance of many intermediate operations.

Laboratory analyses of samples (physicochemical, mechanical, etc.)

Within the framework of IPQC, survey companies often conduct laboratory tests of samples:

• Physical and chemical analyses of materials
• Tests for strength, wear resistance and other mechanical properties
• Electrical safety testing for electronic products
• Environmental Compliance Tests

The results of such tests make it possible to objectively assess the compliance of products with the declared technical requirements and to identify deviations in a timely manner .

3.3 Pre-Shipment Inspection

Pre-shipment control (PSI) is one of the most popular survey services and is carried out after the completion of production, but before the goods are shipped to the buyer. The purpose of such an inspection is to make sure that the finished product fully meets the requirements of the customer.

Visual inspection of finished products in the warehouse

In the course of pre-shipment inspection, surveyors perform:

• Detailed external inspection of finished products
• Checking the functionality and performance of products
• Assessment of the quality of finishes and appearance
• Control of the correspondence of sizes, colors and other parameters to the agreed samples

Visual inspection is carried out according to international standards of sampling control, which allows you to assess the quality of the entire batch with a high degree of reliability.

Counting and checking the completeness of batches

At this stage, the following is also carried out:

• Checking the total number of products in the batch
• Control of the completeness of each product
• Checking the correctness of labeling and barcoding
• Assessment of packaging compliance with transportation requirements

Pre-shipment inspection is the last chance to identify non-conformities before the goods are shipped, thus avoiding the significant costs of returning or replacing defective products.

3.4 Supervision of loading and unloading operations

Supervision of loading and unloading operations is the control of the process of loading goods into vehicles and ensures the safety and security of cargo during transportation.

Presence of a surveyor when loading into a container or flexitank

During loading, the surveyor:

• Checks the condition of the vehicle (container, wagon, hold) before loading
• Controls the correct placement of cargo
• Monitors compliance with the requirements for fastening and separation of goods
• Ensures optimal load distribution

The presence of an independent specialist at the loading stage minimizes the risk of damage to the goods during transportation and prevents possible manipulation of the cargo.

Fixing of packaging conditions, sealing and weight control

Upon completion of loading, the surveyor:

• Documents the condition of the package with photo and video recording
• Seals a container or other vehicle
• Controls the compliance of the actual weight of the cargo with the declared
• Draws up a report on the condition of the cargo at the time of shipment

These procedures play an important role in the settlement of possible insured events and disputes related to the condition of the goods upon receipt.

3.5 Inspection during transshipment and unloading

Inspection during transshipment and unloading is especially important in multimodal transportation, when the cargo is reloaded from one mode of transport to another, which increases the risk of damage.

Monitoring of cargo condition in transit ports

At transit points, surveyors:

• Monitor the condition of a container or other transport unit
• Check the integrity of the seals
• Assess the conditions of temporary storage of cargo
• Monitor compliance with special requirements for storage conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.)

Such control allows you to identify problems that have arisen during transportation in a timely manner and take the necessary measures to minimize possible damage.

Timely documentation of damage

If damage is detected, surveyors:

• The nature and extent of damage are recorded with the help of photo and video shooting
• Assess the amount of damage caused
• Draw up a report on the condition of the cargo
• Determine the possible causes of damage

Timely and professional documentation of damages is a key factor when filing insurance claims and settling disputes with the carrier or supplier.

3.6 Remote (video)inspection

In modern conditions, especially given the restrictions on international movement, the format of remote video inspection is becoming increasingly popular.

Online control for urgent orders or limited budget

Remote inspection allows you to:

• Conduct real-time product inspections via video
• Give prompt instructions to correct the identified deficiencies
• Save on the cost of sending inspectors
• Reduce inspection time

This format is especially relevant for small batches of goods or when working with trusted suppliers.

Advantages and limitations

Advantages of remote inspection:

• Efficiency
• Reducing the cost of services
• Possibility of customer participation in the inspection process
• Flexibility in scheduling inspection times

Limitations of the method:

• Inability to self-sample for inspection
• Limited detailed inspection capabilities
• Dependence on the quality of communication and equipment at the inspection site
• Inability to perform certain types of physical tests

Remote inspection can be an effective complement to traditional inspection methods, but in most cases it cannot completely replace them.

4. Certification and documentary support

4.1 Preparation of export and certification documents

Professional survey companies provide significant support in the preparation of the necessary documentation for the export of goods from China. Experts help to ensure that all documents comply with international requirements and standards of the importing country.

As part of this service, surveyors:

• Check the correctness of commercial invoices
• Monitor the compliance of packing lists with the actual contents of packages
• Prepare and certify certificates of origin of goods
• Draw up inspection reports and expert opinions
• Help in the preparation of transport documents

Properly prepared documentation significantly speeds up the customs clearance process and minimizes the risk of delays in the import of goods.

4.2 Control of compliance with international standards (ISO, CE, FDA, etc.)

One of the key aspects of the work of surveyors is the control of product compliance with international standards and requirements. This is especially important when supplying goods to markets with high safety and quality requirements.

Survey companies:

• Assess the conformity of products to the requirements of international standards
• Monitor the availability and authenticity of certificates of conformity
• Organize additional tests in accredited laboratories
• Advise on certification issues for various sales markets

Professional control of compliance with international standards helps to avoid problems with the regulatory authorities of the importing country and ensures unhindered access of goods to target markets.

5. Additional services

5.1 Sampling and storage

An important part of survey services is the professional selection of samples and samples of products for testing and subsequent storage as reference samples.

As part of this service, surveyors:

• Take representative samples in accordance with international standards
• Ensure that samples are stored correctly under the right conditions
• Organize the transportation of samples to testing laboratories
• Keep control samples for possible future arbitration proceedings

Professional sampling ensures that the samples tested truly represent the characteristics of the entire batch of goods, which is the basis for an objective assessment of its quality.

5.2 Testing for resistance to transport conditions

For goods that are particularly sensitive to transportation conditions, survey companies conduct specialized tests for resistance to various influences.

Such tests include:

• Vibration and shock tests
• Extreme Temperature and Humidity Testing
• Checking the packaging efficiency during stacking
• Packaging leak tests

The results of these tests allow you to optimize packaging and transport conditions, which minimizes the risk of damage to goods in transit.

5.3 Supply Chain Optimization Consulting

Experienced survey companies provide consulting services to optimize the entire supply chain from China, based on their extensive experience and knowledge of local specifics.

Consulting services include:

• Evaluation and selection of reliable suppliers
• Recommendations on the best routes and delivery methods
• Tips for minimizing logistics risks
• Development of quality control strategies for specific types of products

Such consultations help new importers avoid typical mistakes and quickly achieve efficiency in working with Chinese suppliers.

5.4 Translation and on-site support

The language barrier and cultural differences can significantly complicate communication with Chinese partners. To solve these problems, survey companies offer translation and personal support services.

These services include:

• Professional translation of technical documentation and business correspondence
• Interpreting during negotiations and during visits to production facilities
• Cultural mediation for effective interaction
• Physical support of the client when visiting Chinese factories and offices

Qualified support allows you to overcome communication barriers and significantly increase the efficiency of business contacts.

6. Advantages of working with a professional surveyor

Reduce the risk of scrap and shortages

The involvement of professional surveyors significantly reduces the likelihood of obtaining low-quality goods or products that do not correspond to the ordered quantity. Statistics show that pre-shipment inspection allows you to identify up to 90% of cases of non-compliance with the customer's requirements before sending the goods .

Timely identification of problems allows:

• Prevent defective products from being shipped
• Ensure that the product meets the technical requirements
• Eliminate cases of underdelivery or re-grading
• Minimize the risks of failure to meet delivery deadlines due to the need to replace low-quality products

Saving time and budget on modifications

Investments in professional survey services pay off many times over due to savings on eliminating the consequences of the supply of low-quality goods:

• No need for costly returns and replacements
• Prevention of production downtime due to the arrival of substandard raw materials or components
• Elimination of reputational losses due to delays in delivery to end customers
• Minimization of legal costs for resolving disputes with suppliers

Transparency of deliveries and reporting in Russian

Working with professional survey companies ensures full transparency of the entire supply chain:

• Regular reports on production progress and inspections
• Document all identified issues and how to fix them
• Provision of photo and video materials at all stages
• Preparation of documentation in Russian, which eliminates the risk of incorrect interpretation of information

This level of transparency allows the importer to monitor the situation in real time and make informed management decisions in a timely manner.

7. How to order the service

7.1 Description of the interaction process

The process of working with a survey company usually includes the following stages:

1. Initial consultation and identification of needs

• Discussion of inspection requirements and desired results
• Determination of the optimal types of inspections for a specific order
• Consultation on specific requirements for a specific type of product

2. Agreeing on the terms and signing of the contract

• Determination of the scope of work and timing of inspections
• Coordination of the cost of services and payment terms
• Signing of a contract or agreement on cooperation

3. Planning and Conducting Inspections

• Coordination of inspection dates with the supplier
• Sending an inspector to the site
• Inspection according to the approved plan

4. Submission of report and recommendations

• Preparation of a detailed report on the results of the inspection
• Development of recommendations for eliminating the identified nonconformities
• Discussion of the results with the customer

5. Follow-up

• If necessary, a second inspection after the elimination of the comments
• Support and consulting until the full completion of the project

7.2 Required data from the client

For an effective inspection of a survey company, the following data will be required:

• Full contact details of the supplier and the location of the inspection
• Detailed specifications of the inspected goods
• Quality requirements and tolerances
• Approved product samples (if any)
• Production schedule and planned shipment dates
• Special requirements for packaging and labeling
• Specific checks to be carried out

The more complete the information the customer provides, the more accurately the inspection will be carried out in accordance with his needs.

7.3 Estimated Timeline and Cost Calculation

The timing of inspections depends on the type of inspection, the location of the manufacturer and the complexity of the product:

• Pre-production audit: 1-3 days
• In-Process Inspection: 1 Day
• Pre-shipment inspection: 1 day
• Loading supervision: depends on the volume of cargo (usually 1 day)

The cost of survey services is formed on the basis of the following factors:

• Type and scope of inspection required
• Location of production (transport accessibility)
• Complexity of the inspected products
• The need for laboratory testing
• Urgency of work
• Number of inspectors required to carry out the work

Investments in professional survey services average 0.5-1.5% of the order value, which is the minimum insurance against much more serious losses in case of receiving low-quality goods.

8. Conclusion

Importing goods from China opens up wide prospects for business development, but requires a professional approach to quality control and supply organization. An independent inspection conducted by experienced surveyors is a reliable tool for minimizing risks and ensuring the stable quality of imported products.

Timely involvement of a survey company allows you to identify potential problems before they arise and ensure the receipt of exactly the goods that were ordered, within the agreed time frame and with the expected level of quality. This is especially important when you first experience working with a new supplier or when ordering a large batch of goods.

Our company offers a full range of surveyors services in China with the guarantee of professional approach and individual attention to the needs of each client. We operate in all industrial regions of China and provide prompt resolution of any issues related to product quality control.

Do not risk your investment - entrust quality control to professionals!

Contact us today to get a free consultation and calculate the cost of survey services for your specific case. Our experts will help you develop an optimal quality control strategy that will ensure the safety of your investment and the success of your business.