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What is a pre-shipment inspection — and when do you need one?

A pre-shipment inspection (PSI) is an independent check of your goods at the factory or port before they are loaded and before you pay the balance. It is the last moment you can still say no.

Written for: Importer who heard the term pre-shipment inspection and wants to know what it actually does.

1. What a PSI actually checks

An inspector counts the quantity, pulls random samples against your specification, checks workmanship, labelling, packing and carton marks, and supervises loading with seal numbers photographed.

  • Quantity vs the purchase order
  • Workmanship and spec conformity on random samples
  • Packing, labelling and shipping marks
  • Container condition, loading and seal numbers

2. What the certificate proves

The inspection certificate is a dated, photo-backed record of what was in the container when it closed. Buyers use it to release payment, to claim against a supplier, and to satisfy banks and customs where a PSI certificate is required.

3. When you should book one

Always on a first order with a new supplier, on any order above a value you cannot afford to lose, and whenever production was rushed or the supplier resisted inspection. The cost is a flat day rate — small against the value of a container.

4. What it costs with Amanect

Amanect Verify charges $180 per container for pre-shipment inspection in Türkiye, Vietnam and India, with loading supervision and lab tests priced separately. You receive a photo report and a verifiable certificate with a QR code.

Questions buyers ask

What is a pre-shipment inspection certificate?

A document issued after inspection stating what was checked, the result (pass/fail), quantities, seal numbers and photos. Ours carries a QR code anyone can verify online.

Is a PSI mandatory?

For some destination countries and some bank letters of credit, yes. For most private buyers it is voluntary — but it is the cheapest insurance in trade.

When in the process does it happen?

When production is at least 80% finished and packed, before the container leaves the factory.

Have a supplier you want checked?

Send us the company name and what you plan to order. We come back with what we can confirm, what we cannot, and what an on-site visit would cost.

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