A check where the goods are
We check the goods while they are still in China, wherever they are. That way we notice the wrong colour, missing cartons or damaged packaging before loading, while the supplier can still put them right.
We check in two places:
- In our warehouses in Yiwu and Ningbo. Consolidated shipments and goods bought at the Yiwu market are checked here. The supplier delivers the goods to our warehouse, and our team inspects them before loading.
- At the factory, anywhere in China. When a full container is loaded at a factory in another city, an agent travels there and carries out the check on site. That costs less than moving 30 or 70 cubic metres of goods to our warehouse and loading them again.
In both cases you receive a photo and video report before loading. Our four agents are Transcont employees who work in English and Chinese, independently of the supplier.
What we check
- Quantity. We count the cartons and compare the count with the packing list. On a sample of cartons we also count the pieces.
- Specification. We compare the goods with the order and the approved sample: model, colour, size, material and function. We also look for items replaced with a similar model.
- Packaging. We assess whether the carton is strong enough for sea freight and transshipment, and whether the inner packing protects the goods.
- Carton marks. We check that they are correct: your shipping mark, carton number, model, quantity and weight.
- Visible damage. Breakage, scratches, damp, glue marks, odour.
- Labels and markings on the product. We check that what you asked for is there: the CE mark, instructions, warnings, barcodes and a label in your language, if agreed.
- Documents. We check that the invoice and packing list match what is physically there. For regulated goods we check that the supplier has test reports and a declaration of conformity, and that they cover the model you are buying.
What the report contains
You receive a report for each shipment, separately for each supplier. It contains:
- Photos of the pallets or cartons as received.
- Photos of the carton marks.
- Photos of opened cartons and of the product close up.
- A short video, when a function or a quantity needs to be shown.
- Photos of every difference and any damage we find, with a description.
- Our short conclusion: what matches the order, what does not, and what could not be checked.
If we find a problem, we tell you before loading and agree how to proceed with the supplier.
Limits of the service
- We do not work to the AQL sampling standard and do not issue an inspection certificate.
- We do not carry out laboratory tests. The EN 71 test for toys, for example, is done by an accredited laboratory on the factory's instruction. The same applies to electrical safety (LVD) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests for lamps and appliances.
- We cannot rule out hidden defects that do not show when a sample of cartons is opened.
- We are not a conformity assessment body. Where your market requires a certified third-party inspection, an accredited company carries it out.
Our team has 20 years of experience with goods from China. The check is done by hand and is always documented.
Regulated goods: toys and electrical products
For toys and electrical products, checking the documents matters as much as checking the product itself. Confirm the requirements for your product before you order.
← Scroll to see all columns →
| Category | What we ask the supplier for | What we check |
|---|---|---|
| Toys | EN 71 test report and declaration of conformity | Documents present and issued for your model, CE mark and age warnings on the box |
| LED and electrical products | Safety (LVD) and EMC reports, declaration of conformity | Documents present and matching the model, markings and instructions |
| Food-contact plastics | Declaration for the food-contact material | Declaration present and relating to your product |
A children's toys wholesaler we work with imports more than 10 times a year. Goods from several suppliers in Yiwu are collected and checked in our warehouse before loading. More on these categories: toys from China and LED lighting and electrical goods.
When the check matters most
- A first order with a new supplier. It is not yet known whether series production will match the sample.
- Seasonal goods. Christmas decorations that arrive after the holidays are a loss. A problem has to be found in China, while there is still time to put it right.
- Several suppliers in one shipment. In our warehouse we check the cartons, marks and goods of all suppliers in one place. More on the LCL consolidation page.
- Fragile goods. Glass, ceramics and lamps need strong packaging. We notice a weak carton before loading. See home goods.
- Goods with labels and documents. Toys, electrical products and products in contact with food.
The decision is yours
After the report you have several options:
- The goods are loaded.
- The supplier repairs or replaces part of the goods, and we check again.
- A discount is agreed with the supplier.
- The disputed part stays behind, and the rest is shipped.
Nothing is loaded without your confirmation. The report reaches you before you pay the balance or before the container is closed.
To check a supplier before you order, read the guide on how to verify a Chinese supplier or get in touch with our agent in China. For a wide assortment of small items we recommend the Yiwu buying trip.
Send a request
Send us a link or photo of the product, the quantity, the supplier's details and location, and the destination of the goods. If you have a sample or a specification, send those too, so that we can compare the goods with them.
