Label defect stopped before container loading
Updated: 2026-08-31
A 12,000-unit order was inspected at 90 percent packing. AQL sampling found a critical country-of-origin labelling error above the reject threshold, and the batch was reworked before loading.
Problem
The shipment had a tight vessel cut-off. The buyer booked a pre-shipment inspection at 90 percent packing so there was still time to hold or fix the batch.
Investigation
- 1. Agreed the AQL level and sample size before the inspection.
- 2. Counted quantity and tested function on the sampled units.
- 3. Verified packing and labelling against the purchase order and the market requirement.
- 4. Found the country-of-origin mark incorrect on more units than the AQL accept number allowed.
Findings
The batch was reworked before container loading, re-inspected and passed, and the shipment sailed on schedule instead of being rejected at customs.
- ·Country-of-origin mark was incorrect on more units than the AQL accept number allowed.
- ·Quantity and function tests passed on the sampled units.
- ·The defect was a labelling error rather than a product failure, and could be reworked.
Risk score
Indicative score before the work described above. Higher score means lower risk. This is an illustrative figure for the example, not a real verification result.
Recommendation
Rework the labelling, re-inspect before loading, and add an artwork approval step to the next order.
Services
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