Inspection Level
Meaning ~ The statistical parameter in acceptance sampling that dictates the sample size of a batch of goods based on the total lot quantity and chosen severity.
Quality Control Agreement
Meaning
Bilateral manufacturing contracts establish the precise technical and administrative standards that a factory must maintain during production. A formal quality control agreement details the sampling plans, defect classifications, and test methods that the manufacturer must use. This document ensures that both the buyer and the supplier share the same definition of quality.
Bilateral Contract
Signing a quality control agreement prevents the supplier from changing materials or manufacturing methods without the buyer’s permission. It is a separate document that is signed alongside the main purchase agreement. This contract holds the factory accountable for any unauthorized changes in the production line.
Acceptance Standard
The quality control agreement outlines the exact criteria for accepting or rejecting a finished batch. It defines the acceptable quality limits for critical, major, and minor defects, leaving no room for subjective interpretation. These clear rules help inspectors work efficiently on the factory floor.
Liability Allocation
A quality control agreement determines who pays for the sorting, reworking, and re-inspection of a failed batch. Without this written agreement, factories will often refuse to fix defects or will charge the buyer for the extra labor. It allows the importer to deduct these expenses from the final payment, giving the buyer strong financial protection against poor workmanship.