Never miss a flaw again. Our comprehensive quality control checklist covers every detail you should inspect before giving the green light.
Universal QC Principles
Quality control is the difference between satisfaction and disappointment. This comprehensive checklist covers every element you should inspect before approving your Hipobuy order for shipment. Before diving into category-specific checks, understand these universal principles that apply across all product types.
The QC Process Flow
Request Specific Photos
Do not accept generic warehouse shots. Ask for detailed angles of known problem areas for your specific item.
Use Reference Images
Have authentic reference photos ready for side-by-side comparison against the QC photos you receive.
Check Under Natural Light
Warehouse lighting can hide flaws. Request photos near windows or under neutral lighting for accurate color assessment.
Inspect Before Shipping
Once a package ships, corrections become expensive or impossible. This is your only chance to catch issues.
Apparel QC Checklist
Apparel quality control requires attention to construction details that are easy to overlook when browsing thumbnails. From collar ribbing to hem straightness, these small details add up to the overall quality impression.
T-Shirt & Top Inspection Points
- Collar ribbing is tight and even without waviness
- Shoulder seams align at correct drop point
- Print placement matches reference height from collar
- Print texture is correct (raised screen print vs flat DTG)
- Hem is straight and even all around
- Tag stitching is neat and placement is correct
- Fabric weight matches description (not see-through)
Hoodie & Sweater Inspection Points
- Fleece weight matches stated GSM rating
- Drawstring tips are present and match reference
- Pocket alignment is even on both sides
- Cuff and hem ribbing recovers after stretch
- Print or embroidery is centered and aligned
- Interior lining is consistent quality throughout
- Zipper glides smoothly without catching (if applicable)
Footwear QC Checklist
Shoes demand the most detailed QC inspection because they have the most complex construction and the highest community scrutiny. Shape accuracy, material texture, and stitching consistency all matter.
Footwear QC by Silhouette
| Silhouette | Critical Check | Common Flaw |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | Ankle padding thickness, collar shape | Thin padding or collapsed collar |
| Running | Mesh texture, sole flex pattern | Stiff midsole or wrong mesh weave |
| Boots | Eyelet quality, sole attachment | Loose eyelets or weak heel counter |
| Casual | Logo placement, material grain | Off-center logos or wrong leather grain |
Common QC Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced buyers make QC errors that lead to disappointment. Rushing the green light is the most common mistake. Take time to compare every detail against your reference photos. Ignoring minor flaws is also dangerous—small issues often indicate larger quality problems with the entire batch.
Green Light vs Red Light Decision
Acceptable
- Minor stitching irregularities on hidden areas
- Slight color variation within acceptable batch range
- Minimal glue residue that can be cleaned
- Tag placement slightly off but not visible when worn
Reject
- Shape issues or silhouette distortion
- Major color differences from reference
- Structural defects in sole or upper attachment
- Wrong batch code or mislabeled product
- Missing components (laces, tags, accessories)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many photos should I request?
Minimum 7-10 for shoes, 5-7 for apparel, and 5 for accessories. More is always better than missing a critical angle.
What if the seller refuses extra photos?
Consider this a red flag. Professional sellers accommodate reasonable photo requests. Find a seller who provides proper QC service.
Should I GL if there are minor flaws?
Depends on flaw severity and your personal tolerance. Minor stitching irregularities may be acceptable; shape issues usually are not.
What is the best lighting for QC photos?
Natural daylight or 5500K neutral white light. Avoid warm yellow or cool blue lighting that distorts colors.