Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) vs. During Production Inspection (DUPRO): Which Do You Need?

Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) vs. During Production Inspection (DUPRO): Which Do You Need?

For global buyers, managing quality control is a critical step when sourcing from China. Making the wrong choice between a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) and a During Production Inspection (DUPRO) can lead to costly mistakes. As your trusted sourcing partner in China, SFCN is here to clarify these two essential inspections and help you determine the best strategy for your order.

Understanding Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)

A Pre-Shipment Inspection is your final defense. It occurs after 100% of your order has been manufactured, packaged, and is ready to be shipped. Think of it as a final gate check before your goods leave the factory.

The core purpose of a PSI is to verify:

• That the product quantity matches your order.

• The overall workmanship and appearance align with your approved sample.

• The products function correctly through random testing.

• The packaging, labeling, and shipping marks are accurate.

A PSI is typically the right choice when your order is straightforward, you have an established relationship with a reliable supplier, and your main concern is confirming that everything is correct just before shipment.

Understanding During Production Inspection (DUPRO)

A During Production Inspection, on the other hand, is a proactive measure. It takes place when a significant portion (typically 20-80%) of your production run is complete. This mid-production check gives you a crucial glimpse into the manufacturing process itself.

The primary goals of a DUPRO are to:

• Assess the production line's efficiency and quality controls.

• Check the quality of raw materials and components being used.

• Identify any defects or issues in the semi-finished products early on.

• Provide an opportunity to correct course before the entire order is completed, saving significant time and money on rework.

You should strongly consider a DUPRO if you are working with a new supplier, producing a complex or custom-designed product, or managing a large, high-value order where early risk detection is paramount.

Making the Choice: PSI or DUPRO?

So, how do you decide? The choice hinges on your specific risk level and the nature of your order.

Choose a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) if your situation is lower risk. This is ideal for standard products from a trusted supplier where the production process is well-understood and stable. The PSI serves as your final quality assurance checkpoint.

Choose a During Production Inspection (DUPRO) if your situation is higher risk. This is the safer option for new supplier relationships, complex products, or first-time orders. The DUPRO acts as an early warning system, preventing a large batch of defective products from being made.

For the highest level of protection, many of our clients at SFCN opt for a combined approach. Starting with a DUPRO to catch issues mid-production, followed by a PSI to conduct the final pre-shipment verification, creates a powerful two-tiered quality control system.

Let SFCN Manage Your Quality Control in China

Understanding the difference between PSI and DUPRO is the first step. The next, and most important, step is having an experienced partner on the ground in China to execute these inspections effectively. This is where SFCN provides unparalleled value.

As your full-service sourcing agent based in Guangzhou, we integrate robust quality control measures directly into your supply chain management. We don't just find suppliers; we manage the entire process, including:

• Strategic Inspection Planning: Advising on the right inspection type (PSI, DUPRO, or a combination) based on your unique needs.

• Professional Execution: Coordinating with independent, qualified inspectors to conduct thorough checks and provide detailed reports with photographic evidence.

• End-to-End Support: Handling everything from supplier sourcing and negotiation to production monitoring, logistics, and customs clearance.

Don't leave your product quality to chance. Leverage our decade of experience to ensure your imports meet your exact standards.

Contact SFCN today to discuss your quality control needs and build a safer, more reliable supply chain from China.