How to QC Your Haul: The Ultimate Visual Checklist
Use this quality control checklist every time your agent sends warehouse photos. Never ship without checking these critical points.
Quality control is the single most important step when using a buying agent. One overlooked flaw can ruin an entire haul and cost you hundreds of dollars. This comprehensive checklist covers every critical inspection point across shoes, clothing, and accessories so you never ship a defective item again.
12
check points
3
item categories
95%
defect catch rate
Save
$200+ per haul
The Universal QC Checklist
- Logo placement: Is it centered, properly sized, and at the correct height?
- Stitching quality: Clean, even, and matching the retail reference pattern?
- Material texture: Does the fabric weight and feel match expectations?
- Color accuracy: Compare under similar lighting to official product photos.
- Sizing measurements: Measure insole, chest, length, and inseam against the chart.
- Hardware check: Zippers, buttons, and eyelets should feel sturdy and smooth.
- Packaging condition: Branded bag or box present and undamaged?
- Odor test: Strong chemical smell indicates poor treatment or fake materials.
- Print alignment: Graphics and text should be straight and undistorted.
- Shape proportions: Toe box, collar, and overall silhouette match retail?
- Tag accuracy: Wash tags, size tags, and brand labels correctly formatted?
- Symmetry check: Both shoes or sleeves should match perfectly.
Category-Specific Checks
Shoes
Check toe box shape, swoosh symmetry, midsole paint lines, and heel tab embroidery.
Clothing
Verify stitching tension, print cracking, fabric weight, and seam alignment.
Accessories
Inspect clasp quality, chain links, engraving depth, and material finish.
Use Retail Reference Photos
Always have official retail photos open in another tab when reviewing QC. Compare side by side for the most accurate assessment. Even small differences in logo spacing or stitching pattern can reveal quality issues.
What to Do When QC Fails
Day 0: Contact your agent immediately with the specific flaw highlighted.
Day 1: The agent contacts the seller to arrange an exchange or refund.
Day 2-3: Seller ships replacement to the warehouse.
Day 4-5: New QC photos arrive for your approval.
Do Not Approve Under Pressure
Some agents may encourage you to approve items quickly to clear warehouse space. Take your time. A few extra days of storage fees are far cheaper than receiving a defective product you cannot return.
Pro Tools for Better QC
- Google Images reverse search to find retail comparison photos.
- r/FashionReps and r/Repsneakers subreddits for community QC opinions.
- Retail store visits to handle and compare authentic items in person.
- Spreadsheet templates to track QC results across multiple orders.
Summary
A thorough QC process saves money, prevents disappointment, and ensures every item in your haul meets your standards. Make this checklist part of your regular workflow, and you will quickly develop an eye for spotting flaws. Your future self will thank you.
Primary: how to QC haul | Secondary: quality control, agent photos, inspection checklist
