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Sofas & Couches Inspection Checklist and Template

Sofas and couches are essential pieces of furniture that provide comfort and style to any living space. When it comes to purchasing these items, quality and user experience are of utmost importance. Asian manufacturing countries, such as China and Vietnam, are known for producing a wide range of sofas and couches at competitive prices. However, sourcing from Asia can come with potential quality risks. To mitigate these risks, thorough Quality Control and Due Diligence are crucial. By ensuring that the manufacturing process meets international standards, buyers can have peace of mind knowing that they are investing in a high-quality product that will enhance their living space for years to come.

What to look for when inspecting Sofas & Couches?

Frame check
Upholstery check
Seams check
Stitching check
Cushion check
Padding check
Color compare check (set of sofas)
Logo (position, colors, appearance)
Legs check
Scratch check
Wobbly sofa
Accessories/components quantity check (self-assembly sofas)
Screws quantity check (self-assembly sofas)
Assembly check (self-assembly sofas)
Mechanisms check (reclining sofas)
Fold/unfold check (sofa beds)
Packaging integrity check
Smell test
Function Check

32+ Checkpoints for inspection used by top retailers.

Step-by-step instructions for performance and mechanical tests

99.7% fully satisfied customer with over 200+ clients

George Fang

Operations Director at QCADVISOR based in Hangzhou, China. With extensive hands-on experience and a strong mechanical and electrical background, George excels in developing accurate and practical inspection standards, ensuring detailed quality controls for mechanical and electrical products.

General Inspection Process

Check for any visible damage or wear on the upholstery, such as tears, stains, or fading.
Inspect the seams and stitching to ensure they are secure and evenly done.
Look for any loose or broken buttons, zippers, or other decorative elements.
Examine the cushions for proper firmness and shape, ensuring they are not sagging or misshapen.
Check the frame for any cracks, splits, or signs of weakness.
Test the stability of the sofa by applying pressure to different areas and checking for any wobbling or shifting.
Inspect the legs for any damage or instability, ensuring they are securely attached.
Check the reclining mechanism (if applicable) to ensure it operates smoothly and securely locks in place.
Test any adjustable headrests or armrests to ensure they function properly.
Check the overall dimensions of the sofa to ensure it fits the desired space.
Inspect the fabric for any signs of pilling or excessive wear.
Look for any loose threads or fraying along the edges of the upholstery.
Check the color consistency of the fabric, ensuring there are no noticeable variations.
Test the comfort of the sofa by sitting on it and assessing the level of support provided.
Check the weight capacity of the sofa to ensure it can accommodate the intended usage.
Inspect the cushions for any signs of mold or mildew.
Test any reclining or folding mechanisms to ensure they operate smoothly and securely.
Check the overall construction of the sofa, ensuring there are no visible defects or poor craftsmanship.
Inspect any additional features, such as built-in storage compartments or cup holders, to ensure they are functional.
Finally, assess the overall aesthetic appeal of the sofa, ensuring it matches the desired style and complements the existing decor.

Compliance & Lab Standards for Sofas & Couches

When importing Sofas & Couches 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

Flammability (16 CFR Part 1633): Upholstered furniture must meet flammability standards under the Federal flammability regulation.
Formaldehyde Emission (CARB Phase 2): Limits formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products.
Lead Content (CPSIA): Maximum allowable lead content should not exceed 100 ppm in accessible parts.
Labeling Requirements: Compliance with labeling laws including origin, fiber content, and care instructions.

Recommended

VOC Emissions: Testing for volatile organic compounds to ensure indoor air quality.
Performance Testing: Evaluating fabric durability, seam strength, and colorfastness.
BIFMA Compliance: Adherence to BIFMA standards for comfort and performance.

European Union

Mandatory

REACH Compliance: Restriction of hazardous substances in materials used.
General Product Safety Directive: Ensures products are safe under normal or foreseeable conditions.
EN 1021: Flammability test for furniture to ensure safety against ignition sources.

Recommended

Formaldehyde Testing: Ensure low emissions to comply with E1/E0 standards.
VOC Emissions: Checking for low volatile organic compounds emissions.
Durability Testing: Assessing fabric wear resistance and structural integrity.

United Kingdom

Mandatory

BS 5852: Fire safety regulations for furniture and furnishings.
UKCA Marking: Requirement for compliance with UK safety regulations post-Brexit.

Recommended

Formaldehyde Emission Standards: Low emission levels for health and safety.
Performance Testing: Fabric and structural integrity assessments.

Canada

Mandatory

Flammability (SOR/2016-194): Standards for flammability of upholstered and stuffed articles.
Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act: Correct labeling for content and care instructions.

Recommended

VOC Emissions: Testing for volatile organic compounds to safeguard indoor air quality.
Formaldehyde Testing: Ensuring low emissions from all wood products.

Australia

Mandatory

AS/NZS 3744: Flammability standards for domestic upholstered furniture.

Recommended

Formaldehyde Emission Testing: Low levels for better air quality.
VOC Emission Testing: To ensure compliance with indoor air quality standards.

Gulf Countries

Mandatory

GSO Standards: Compliance with Gulf Standardization Organization requirements for safety.
Labeling Requirements: Appropriate labeling for origin, content, and care instructions.

Recommended

Flammability Testing: Ensuring resistance to ignition for safety.
Formaldehyde Emission: Testing for low emissions from wood and textiles.

Singapore

Mandatory

SCDF Fire Safety Standard: Compliance with local fire safety regulations.

Recommended

Formaldehyde Emission Testing: Ensure low emissions for health safety.
Performance Testing: Evaluating fabric durability and structural integrity.

Hong Kong

Mandatory

HK Fire Safety Regulations: Compliance with local fire safety standards for furniture.

Recommended

Formaldehyde Emission Testing: Low emissions to ensure safe indoor air quality.
Durability and Performance Tests: Assessing product quality and longevity.

Need more details on Sofas & Couches Checklist?

What is inside this checklist

Durability test
Load capacity test
Stability test
Comfort test
Upholstery quality test
Colorfastness test
Flammability test
Dimensional accuracy test
Stitching strength test
Cushion resilience test
Carton Drop Test
Fastening Test

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