Guide

How to QC Your Products Before Shipping (2026 Edition)

Apr 10, 2026USFans Team
How to QC Your Products Before Shipping (2026 Edition)

Quality Control photos are your safety net. Learn what to look for, how to read them, and when to greenlight or reject a product.

Quality Control photos are the single most important checkpoint between clicking "buy" and receiving your haul. When your agent uploads QC photos, they are giving you the power to approve, reject, or request an exchange before anything ships. But a lot of buyers glance at the photos for three seconds and hit approve. That is a mistake that costs money and disappointment.

The QC Checklist

Logo placement and alignment
Stitching consistency and thread color
Sole color and texture
Size label and inner tag
Box condition (if included)
Accessories: laces, tags, dust bag
Overall shape and silhouette
Material texture vs. retail

What to Do If Something Looks Wrong

If you spot an issue in the QC photos, do not approve the item. Open a ticket with your agent and clearly describe the defect. Reference the exact photo number or angle. Most reputable agents will contact the seller for an exchange within 48 hours. If the seller refuses, request a refund and try a different batch or seller.

Red Flags

Blurred QC photos, missing angles, or photos taken in poor lighting are warning signs. A professional agent will photograph the item under consistent lighting from multiple angles. If your agent is hiding something, switch agents.

QC ElementWhat to Look ForCommon Issue
LogoSharp edges, correct font, centeredSlightly off-center or wrong spacing
StitchingEven spacing, matching threadLoose threads or skipped stitches
SoleCorrect pattern, color matchColor slightly darker or lighter
ShapeMatches retail silhouetteToo slim or too bulky

QC is not about finding perfection. It is about catching deal-breakers before they become your problem. A slightly imperfect stitch on the inner lining? Probably fine. A completely misaligned logo on the heel? That is a reject.

Frequently Asked Questions

For a standard pair of sneakers, expect 6-10 photos: top, bottom, both sides, heel, toe box, insole, size label, and any accessories. Clothing items should include front, back, tags, and close-ups of logos.