Traffic Signal Quality Inspection Before Shipment: A Complete Checklist
Introduction
A pre-shipment inspection catches quality issues before they leave the factory. Without it, the buyer discovers problems at destination, costing weeks of delay and significant rework. This guide covers the standard inspection procedure.
Inspection Trigger
Pre-shipment inspection is recommended for:
- First orders with a new factory
- Any order above $10,000
- Any order with custom configuration
- Any order with destination-market certification
GAOQIAO welcomes buyer inspection or third-party inspection (SGS, Bureau Veritas) at our factory.
Sampling Plan
GAOQIAO uses AQL (Acceptable Quality Level) sampling per ISO 2859-1:
- General inspection level II
- AQL 1.0 for major defects (function, safety)
- AQL 2.5 for minor defects (cosmetic, finish)
For a 100-unit order: sample 20 units, accept if 0-1 major defects and 0-3 minor defects.
Inspection Checklist
The pre-shipment inspection covers:
1. Visual inspection (per sample unit): - No scratches, dents or paint defects - All labels correct and legible - All accessories present - Fasteners tight 2. Photometric test (per sample unit, 5% of lot): - Intensity matches EN12368 / GB14886 class - Chromaticity within spec - Beam distribution matches spec 3. Mechanical test (per sample unit): - Lens impact resistance - Door hinge operation - Gasket compression 4. Electrical test (per sample unit): - Power-on smoke test - All functions operational - Insulation resistance 5. Documentation review (once per lot): - Test certificates present - DoC correct - Packing list accurate
GAOQIAO can complete the full inspection in 1-2 days for a typical 100-unit order.
Handling Defects
If a sample fails:
- Major defect: reject the entire lot, request rework
- Minor defect: rework the failed units, re-sample
GAOQIAO's standard AQL gives a clear pass/fail decision. If the lot fails, we rework at no cost before re-inspection.
Featured Products
GAOQIAO accepts buyer or third-party pre-shipment inspection. See the quality control documentation and the sample testing guide.
Conclusion
Pre-shipment inspection protects the buyer's investment. GAOQIAO welcomes inspection at the factory. Send us your order for an inspection schedule.
Get a Quote
Email: sky-sale@njgq.net WhatsApp/Phone: +86-18805173545 Tel: +86-25-84471080
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pre-shipment inspection take?
1-2 days for a typical 100-unit order. Larger orders take proportionally longer.
Who pays for third-party inspection?
Typically the buyer. Inspection cost is $300-800 per day plus travel for the inspector.
What if the inspection finds defects?
GAOQIAO reworks at no cost and re-inspects. If defects recur, we may offer a discount or accept return.
Relevant GAOQIAO products
These public GAOQIAO catalogue pages are related to the guide. Open them for the representative description, then confirm the latest drawing and configuration before ordering.
- Traffic signal controllersWired and solar controllers with 6, 22, 44 and 56 output options.
- LED traffic signal heads200mm, 300mm and 400mm signal heads with MUTCD, EN12368, GB14886 compliance.
- Signal polesVertical, signal arm and double-arm poles for any intersection geometry.
- Spare parts and accessoriesSpare LED modules, lenses, visors, surge arrestors and anchor bolts.