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Apparel

Apparel (Clothing, Outerwear, Activewear) Inspection Checklist and Template

Apparel is a broad category that encompasses clothing, outerwear, and activewear. When it comes to these products, quality and user experience are of utmost importance. Asian manufacturing countries like China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam are known for their production capabilities in this industry. However, sourcing from Asia can come with potential quality risks. That’s why thorough Quality Control and Due Diligence are crucial. By conducting rigorous inspections and audits, buyers can ensure that the products meet their desired standards. It is essential to prioritize quality and user experience to provide customers with reliable and enjoyable apparel options.

Apparel Inspection

What to look for when inspecting Apparel (Clothing, Outerwear, Activewear)?

  • Fabric quality check
  • Stitching quality check
  • Colorfastness check
  • Print/embroidery quality check
  • Sizing accuracy check
  • Labeling accuracy check
  • Button/snaps/fasteners check
  • Zipper functionality check
  • Seam strength check
  • Hemming quality check
  • Collar/cuff quality check
  • Pocket placement check
  • Pattern alignment check
  • Garment symmetry check
  • Pilling resistance check
  • Lint/fiber shedding check
  • Odor check
  • Packaging integrity check
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32+ Checkpoints for inspection used by top retailers.

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Step-by-step instructions for performance and mechanical tests

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Dinesh Kumar

Dinesh Kumar

Based in Tamil Nadu, India, Dinesh specializes in softlines including textiles, fabrics, garments, and home textiles. His expertise ensures meticulous and up-to-date inspection criteria, reflecting industry best practices to maintain product integrity throughout the supply chain.

General Inspection Process

  1. Check for any visible stains or discoloration on the fabric.
  2. Inspect the seams to ensure they are securely stitched and free from any loose threads.
  3. Look for any signs of pilling or fabric damage, especially in high-friction areas.
  4. Check the zippers and buttons to ensure they are functioning properly and securely attached.
  5. Examine the pockets to ensure they are properly stitched and free from any holes or tears.
  6. Inspect the collar and cuffs for any signs of wear or fraying.
  7. Check the sizing labels to ensure they match the actual measurements of the garment.
  8. Look for any signs of fading or color bleeding, especially in printed or dyed garments.
  9. Inspect the hems to ensure they are even and properly finished.
  10. Check for any signs of shrinkage or stretching, especially in garments made from natural fibers.
  11. Examine any logos or graphics to ensure they are properly applied and free from any peeling or cracking.
  12. Check the elasticity of any stretchy materials, such as waistbands or cuffs.
  13. Inspect any drawstrings or adjustable features to ensure they are functioning properly.
  14. Look for any signs of odor or unusual smells, which may indicate poor quality or storage conditions.
  15. Check the overall fit of the garment to ensure it matches the intended style and size.
  16. Examine any reflective or safety features to ensure they are properly applied and visible.
  17. Inspect any mesh or ventilation panels to ensure they are free from any holes or tears.
  18. Look for any signs of excessive wrinkling or creasing, which may indicate poor quality fabric.
  19. Check the care instructions to ensure they are clear and appropriate for the garment.
  20. Inspect any additional features, such as hoods or thumbholes, to ensure they are properly attached and functional.

Compliance & Lab Standards for Apparel (Clothing, Outerwear, Activewear)

When importing Apparel (Clothing, Outerwear, Activewear) from suppliers in China, Asia, or other global regions, making sure your products meet the right compliance standards and lab testing requirements is critical. Failing to comply with U.S., EU, or international regulations can result in customs delays, product recalls, or serious damage to your brand reputation. As your boutique QC partner, we help you think ahead.
Below are the key mandatory and recommended standards to keep your shipments compliant, safe, and trusted.
United States

Mandatory

  • CPSIA: Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act for children’s apparel.
  • Flammability Standards: 16 CFR Part 1610 for general wearing apparel.
  • FTC Textile Labeling: Requires proper fiber content labels, manufacturer identity, and care instructions.

Recommended

  • AATCC Test Methods: For colorfastness, shrinkage, and other durability tests.
  • ASTM Standards: For performance specifications such as seam strength and fabric weight.
European Union

Mandatory

  • REACH Regulation: Control of hazardous chemicals in textiles.
  • EN 14682: Standards for children’s clothing cords and drawstrings.
  • Textile Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011: Labeling requirements for fiber content.

Recommended

  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Certification for harmful substances.
  • EN ISO 105: Colorfastness tests to various conditions.
United Kingdom

Mandatory

  • UK REACH: Regulation of chemicals similar to EU REACH post-Brexit.
  • UKCA Marking: Required for products previously under CE marking.
  • Nightwear (Safety) Regulations: Flammability requirements for children’s nightwear.

Recommended

  • BSI Standards: For various textile performance tests.
Canada

Mandatory

  • CCPSA: Canada Consumer Product Safety Act for general product safety.
  • Textile Labeling Act: Requires bilingual labels with fiber content and care instructions.
  • Flammability Requirements: For children’s sleepwear under the Hazardous Products Act.

Recommended

  • CGSB Standards: For performance and quality testing.
Australia

Mandatory

  • ACCC Standards: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission requirements for safety.
  • Care Labeling Standard AS/NZS 1957: Requirements for care instructions on labels.
  • Mandatory Safety Standards: For children’s nightwear flammability.

Recommended

  • AS/NZS 2392: Standards for textile performance testing.
Gulf Countries

Mandatory

  • GCC Standards Organization (GSO) Requirements: Unified standards for textile labeling and safety.
  • SASO Standards: Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization regulations for textiles.

Recommended

  • ISO Standards: For product safety and quality testing.
Singapore

Mandatory

  • Product Safety: General safety requirements under the Consumer Protection (Safety Requirements) Regulations.
  • Labeling Requirements: Mandatory care labeling and fiber content disclosure.

Recommended

  • SPRING Singapore Standards: For textile performance and safety.
Hong Kong

Mandatory

  • Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance: Ensures general safety of consumer products.
  • Trade Descriptions Ordinance: Requires accurate labeling of fiber content.

Recommended

  • Testing to International Standards: Such as ISO or AATCC for quality assurance.
Need more details on Apparel (Clothing, Outerwear, Activewear) Checklist?
Apparel (Clothing, Outerwear, Activewear)

What is inside this checklist

  • Fabric strength test
  • Colorfastness test
  • Seam strength test
  • Dimensional stability test
  • Zipper strength test
  • Button pull test
  • Pilling resistance test
  • Tear strength test
  • Shrinkage test
  • Elasticity test

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