Free tool · Quality
Put your quality standard in writing
A golden sample shows what good looks like. A specification sheet says what counts as a defect. Build one here, with the inspection sample size worked out from the international AQL tables, and print it with English and Chinese headings for the factory and the inspector to sign.
Your spec sheet
How the sample size is worked out
- The order quantity and inspection level give a sample size code letter (ISO 2859-1, Table 1). Level II is the normal choice.
- For each class of defect, the AQL gives the sample size and the accept and reject numbers (single sampling, normal inspection, Table 2-A). Where the table points to a different sample size, that one is used.
- Critical defects are set to zero: one critical defect in the sample fails the order.
- If the sample would be as big as the order, every unit is checked.
Based on ISO 2859-1 as explained by QualityInspection.org (inspection levels, why the spec matters). If the sample sizes for major and minor differ, agree with your inspection company how they draw the sample. More in how to run a pre-shipment inspection.
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Questions about specs and AQL
What is AQL in quality inspection?
AQL (acceptance quality limit) sets how many defective units an inspector can find in a random sample before the order fails. The sample size depends on the order size and the inspection level; the allowed number depends on the AQL you choose for each class of defect. AQL 2.5 means no more than 2.5% defective on average.
What AQL should I use when importing from China?
A common choice for consumer goods is 0 for critical defects (none allowed), 2.5 for major and 4.0 for minor, at general inspection level II. Tighter limits mean bigger samples or fewer defects allowed.
Why isn’t a golden sample enough?
A sample shows what good looks like, but not what counts as a defect, how much variation is acceptable, or how to check it. Put the materials, tolerances, packaging, labels and the defect list in writing too, signed by you and the supplier, and give it to the inspector.
Want the spec written and enforced?
I’m a materials engineer: I write the specification with you, agree it with the factory, and book an independent inspection against it before you pay the balance.
Tell me what you’re making ->