B-L-D · Ningbo · Since 1994 — Factory quality control · the lot, not the system
An inspection is not there to “see if it looks fine.” Its purpose is to produce documented proof that the lot complies with the drawing, the specification and the approved sample — before the container leaves. B-L-D has carried out quality inspections in China since 1994: we go to the factory ourselves, with our own instruments, and deliver a report with dated photos, measurements and verification certificates.
DUPRO · PSI · Pre-shipment · 100% inspection · Container loading · ISO 2859-1 · AQL
Typical tolerance on critical dimensions checked with calibrated instruments: ±0.05 mm. Outcome: PASS / FAIL.
How we carry out quality inspections in China
We arrive at the plant with the customer’s technical specification, the drawing, the approved sample and the agreed sampling plan. We always verify six things.
Dimensional conformity
Critical dimensions and all dimensions listed in the control plan, measured with calibrated calipers, micrometers and dial indicators.
Material
Documentary check of casting and 3.1 certificates and, when required, third-party laboratory testing.
Appearance
Surface defects, burrs, cracks, shrinkage, painting and treatments, assessed against the approved sample.
Functional
Leak, fit, thread and tightening tests on the finished part, where the specification calls for them.
Marking and traceability
Part marking, lot references, labeling and consistency with the shipping documents.
Packaging
Cartons, protections, pallets and resistance to sea transport: the part must arrive as it left the inspection.
The level of inspection is up to you, or we define it together according to how critical the part is. We work either with statistical sampling according to ISO 2859-1 (AQL) or with 100% inspection when the part is critical or the volume allows it.
Types of quality inspection in China
Four moments, four purposes. An inspection checks the lot; an audit assesses the system that produces it — for that, see our page on supplier audits in China.
In-production inspection (DUPRO)
Carried out when production has started but is not yet complete. It catches a defect while it can still be corrected: you act on the process, not on a finished lot. This is the inspection with the best economic return.
CORRECTS · DOESN’T BLOCKPre-shipment inspection (PSI)
Carried out once production is complete, before dispatch. It is the final check: if the lot doesn’t pass, the container doesn’t leave. It is the control most requested by European companies buying in China.
BLOCKS · IF IT FAILS100% inspection for machine-tool production
100% checks during the process, with verification certificates covering metal, dimensions, appearance and packaging. On lots of 100,000–200,000 pieces you need continuous presence at the plant, not a single visit. We also cover this on our page about machine-tool distribution in China.
CONTINUOUS PRESENCEContainer loading supervision
Verification of the number of packages, match with the packing list, condition of the pallets and closure of the container, with photographic documentation before sealing.
DOCUMENTED · PRE-SEALMaterials and productions we follow
In quality inspections in China we specialize in metallurgy, mechanics and precision production, including large volumes. The complete map is on our page about Chinese industrial suppliers by sector.
- AISI 316 · stainless steels
- Cast iron · castings
- Brass · forgings
- Aluminium · die casting
- Copper and alloys
- CNC mechanical parts
- Hydraulic components
- Taps · valves
- Fittings
- Lost-wax casting
On the plastics side: injection molding of technical components, with verification of shrinkage, tolerances and dimensional stability.
How a B-L-D inspection works, in five steps
From the briefing call to shipment authorization: a path already proven on hundreds of lots.
Technical brief — we define what to check
Drawing, specification, approved sample, critical points, AQL level or request for 100% inspection. Defined in a half-hour call.
Booking — we agree the date
We agree the date with the supplier and confirm access to the plant. We recommend at least 5 working days’ notice for a PSI.
In the factory — we carry out the inspection
One or more inspectors on site, with calibrated instruments: calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, squares, hardness tester, thread measuring tools. Photos and video of every phase.
The report — we deliver the proof
A document with the outcome (pass / conditional / fail), detailed findings, dated photos, measurements against tolerances, non-conformities and required corrective actions.
Follow-up — we close the non-conformity
Verification of rework or of the new lot, management of the non-conformity with the supplier, and shipment authorization.
What you receive at the end of the inspection
The value of the inspection is not the visit: it is the document that remains. In the event of a dispute with the supplier, it is the only proof you have.
- R-1Inspection report in Italian or English, with outcome and findings
- R-2Measurement sheets with recorded values and tolerance limits
- R-3Dated photographic documentation, with lot references
- R-4Verification certificates on metal, dimensions, appearance and packaging
- R-5Corrective actions to request from the supplier, already drafted
- PRODUCT
- AISI 316 stainless steel fitting
- LOT / QTY
- 2406-B · 18,400 pcs
- SAMPLING
- ISO 2859-1 · AQL 1.0
- CRITICAL DIM.
- Ø 42.00 +0.05/−0 → 42.03 ✔
- MATERIAL
- Cert. 3.1 · heat #8841 ✔
- PACKAGING
- Pallet + interlayer ✔
FAQ on quality inspections in China
How much does a quality inspection in China cost?
It depends on the number of working days, the distance of the supplier from our base in Ningbo, and the level of inspection (sampling or 100%). Ask for a quote stating location, product and volume: we reply with a day rate and any travel expenses.
How much notice do I need to give?
Five working days for a standard pre-shipment inspection. For 100% inspections on large volumes, a supervision plan agreed weeks in advance is required.
Can I attend the inspection?
Yes, in two ways: in person (we arrange travel and factory access) or remotely, with a live video inspection from the shop floor: see remote inspection.
Do you also inspect non-mechanical products?
Our core is metalworking and mechanics. On plastics, electronics and packaging we operate when the process is known and the control plan is shared.
What is the difference between inspection and audit?
An inspection checks the lot (the product). An audit assesses the system (the company, the process, the capability). They are complementary: see supplier audits in China.
Which standards do you work to?
ISO 2859-1 sampling (AQL), control plans agreed on the customer’s drawing and, for laboratory tests, accredited third parties such as TTR Institute.
Do you have a lot ready for quality inspection in China?
Send us the drawing, quantity and supplier location: we confirm availability and date within 24 hours.
Request an inspection date