The 7 Steps of a Final Random Inspection (FRI) – HQTS

The final random inspection (FRI) is a type of quality inspection that is often the last check of the products in your order before they are shipped. It is also one of the most important checks.

Not only is it an effective way to ensure your products do not have major or minor defects, but it can also answer questions related to whether or not your products are consistently compliant with industry, country, and business-specified requirements.

In this article, we’ve summarised all you need to know about how a final inspection is done, including breaking down the steps of the inspection process.

What is a Random Inspection?

A random inspection is carried out when an order or batch of products is finished and ready to be shipped. Quality inspectors will randomly inspect and evaluate one or more samples/products taken from a large batch or lot of items to see whether the whole set has been produced following the specifications and requirements.

For example, we at HQTS conduct our random inspection services to the MIL-STD-105E (ISO2859-1) international statistical standard for sampling plans. The visual inspections reduce importing risks and there is no need for the client to be on-site, which makes this type of inspection highly valuable in the international trade context.

In quality control, the types of quality inspections are performed at different stages in the supply chain. Whereby the final inspection is usually carried out when production has finished and the packaging is around 80% complete.

What Is MIL-STD-105E?

MIL-STD-105E is an established statistical standard sampling system for inspection by attributes recognized by ISO. Whether or not the quality level meets the client’s specification is evaluated according to the acceptance quality level (AQL). We’ve created a free AQL calculator that will help you determine the acceptance level. But if you want to deepen your knowledge, we recommend you to listen to our short AQL webinar below.

What’s the Importance of an Inspection?

An FRI inspection of your supply chain can be of great value. One of the major benefits is that it gives you peace of mind and confirmation that what you’re shipping has been produced exactly to your specifications and is free from excessive defects. The last thing you want is to receive a delivery of goods you can’t use or sell – as this not only is costly but can be very time-consuming.

Another reason why a random inspection can be worthwhile is to ensure that your goods have been made according to your high standards and are ready to be shipped with the correct packaging and labels.

The 7 Steps of a Final Random Inspection in Quality Control

At HQTS, our final random inspection service is completed through seven steps which will ensure your quality standards and requirements are met. We’ve broken down each of these stages below.

1. Quantity Verification

First of all, you need to be sure that the number of products in your order is following the agreed specifications. Because after all, you don’t want to end up with more or less quantity of products than what you originally agreed upon. The quantity verification check will check the volume inside the order and ensure that the amount is correct.

2. Style and Colour

Secondly, are the style and colours correct? The finished products should appear exactly as stated in your specifications. Styles can vary and you need to be sure that what you’re getting is what you need. You also don’t want to end up with a different colour of one or even several products in your batch being wrong, as this will disrupt your supply chain.

3. Workmanship (General Appearance)

Quality control is very important and especially when it comes to product inspections. A quality product made with skill and care to ensure the finest result. In a final inspection, the finish and appearance will be inspected to clarify whether this has been carried out according to your expectations and high standards.

4. Functions and Safety

Your products not only need to look in tip-top condition according to the design and specifications. But they also need to physically achieve what they are intended to. It’s great if something looks nice and appears to have been made well. But, can it do the job it is meant for and is it safe for the user/consumer? These questions are asked as part of the final random inspection.

5. Size Specification

Sometimes a product only comes in one size. Whereas others come in a range of dimensions, which means more scope for error at the production stage. Checking that a product is the correct size in a random inspection if required, is as important as confirming the correct style and colour. You need to be sure that what is going to arrive matches your exact specifications.

6. Package details

The package details of your order need to comply with regulations of a certain region or wherever your products are travelling. Inspectors can save time and money by ensuring everything is labelled and documented correctly before they leave the factory. An inspector will produce a final inspection report that will enable you to take immediate and early action if anything is incorrect. You can see samples of inspection reports here.

7. Shipping marks

Not only do you need to be sure your products and order will arrive smoothly through customs without any issues with correct certification. But they should also have the necessary shipping marks. With more than 40% of CFO indicating supply chain delays or shortages, it’s much better to resolve potential problems before they are shipped, or in the worst case rejected by customs.
Delays and disruptions create costly bottlenecks in your supply chain and can be easily avoided when checked before shipping. Shipping help ensures all parts of an order are accounted for with all details included.

This could include:

• Shipper’s mark

• Country of origin

• Weight

• Number of packages/cartons with size

• Handling marks

Conclusion: The 7 Steps of a Final Random Inspection (FRI) – HQTS

A final random inspection (FRI) is a quality control process that involves examining a product to identify any defects or errors – before they’re shipped out. They’re often inspected using a MIL-STD-105E (a statistical standard sampling system/random quality check) and evaluated according to the AQL.

But making the inspection tests yourself is challenging, especially if you cannot go physically on-site. We at HQTS have over 25 years of experience in quality assurance. With locations spanning China, Vietnam, India, and many more – we can help you with any final random inspection service across the globe. Contact us today to get a pricing quote.