Agree the standard first
Quality needs a written reference: the approved sample, the size chart and a list of what counts as a defect. Agree these before production.
Without a shared standard, ‘good quality’ is an opinion.
Inspection stages
Checks can happen on incoming fabric, during sewing and at the end of production. A final inspection looks at finished garments from the packed order.
Buyers can send their own inspector or use a third-party inspection company.
AQL sampling
AQL stands for acceptable quality limit. An inspector checks a sample of units, scaled to order size, and compares the number of defects found with an agreed limit.
Limits are usually set separately for critical, major and minor defects. A common approach is stricter limits for major defects than for minor ones. The standard behind these tables is ISO 2859-1.
Common defects
Typical issues include stitching defects, uneven hems, measurement differences, colour variation within a lot, and labelling errors. Many are avoided by a well-checked sample and clear specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I send my own inspector?
Yes. Tell us the date and we will have the order ready for inspection.
What AQL should I choose?
It depends on your market and customers. Many buyers use stricter limits for major defects than for minor defects.