Third Party Inspection for Fabric Orders: What to Check + Report Template

Direct Answer

Third party inspection is an independent QC check that verifies whether fabric rolls match your agreed specifications before you pay the balance or ship the goods.

For fabric, a practical inspection should cover:

• visual defects (with a consistent scoring method)
• measured GSM/width/length
• shade and color continuity checks
• packaging and labeling checks

When you should use third party inspection

Use third party inspection when:

• it is your first order with a supplier
• the order value is high
• you are doing custom colors or tight tolerances
• you have a strict delivery window

What to inspect (fabric-specific)

Minimum checks to include:

1. roll ID tracking: each roll labeled and matches packing list
2. width and cuttable width: measured against tolerance
3. GSM: measured vs tolerance
4. shade: roll-to-roll continuity (shade banding)
5. defects: holes, stains, slubs, needle lines, barre, etc.
6. finish: confirm correct finish (brushed, wicking, etc.)
7. packaging: moisture protection, roll ends protected

Inspection report template (copy/paste)

A) Order details

B) Specification summary

C) Roll sampling

D) Findings

• defect photos (attach)
• shade issues (describe)
• measurements (attach)
• corrective actions (if any)

Defect checklist (starter list)

Common defects to track:

• holes / tears
• oil stains
• barre / uneven dye
• slubs / thick yarn
• needle lines
• print mis-registration (if printed)
• shade variation roll-to-roll

Notes on 4-point inspection

If you use a 4-point system, define:

• your pass/fail threshold
• how many rolls are inspected
• how points are recorded and summarized

Your inspection is only as good as your spec sheet and acceptance criteria.

Related resources

• Fabric Testing Standards: AATCC vs ASTM vs ISO
• Color Fastness Testing: Laboratory Guide