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KakoBuy QC Checklist: What to Inspect Before Shipping

A detailed QC checklist for every major category. Know exactly what to look for in your quality check photos before approving shipment.

Published May 28, 2026
KakoBuy QC Checklist: What to Inspect Before Shipping

## KakoBuy QC Checklist: What to Inspect Before Shipping

Quality check (QC) photos are your only chance to catch issues before an item ships internationally. Never skip this step. A few minutes of careful inspection can save you weeks of disappointment and the hassle of dealing with a defective item that has already crossed borders.

This guide covers what to inspect for each major category, plus general QC tips that apply to every order.

Why QC Is the Most Important Step

Once an item ships internationally, returning it becomes expensive, slow, and sometimes impossible. The QC window is your only opportunity to:

  • Spot defects before shipping
  • Verify sizing accuracy
  • Confirm materials match expectations
  • Check logo placement and stitching
  • Compare to retail reference photos

Skipping QC is the single biggest mistake new buyers make. Experienced buyers treat QC as non-negotiable.

Shoes QC Checklist

Shoes have the most detailed QC requirements because they have the most visible elements:

  • **Shape and silhouette**: Compare to retail photos. The overall shape should match closely. Common flaws include incorrect toe box shape, heel curve, or ankle height.
  • **Stitching**: Check for loose threads, uneven spacing, and sloppy construction. Stitching on the toe box, heel, and swoosh/logo areas is critical.
  • **Materials**: Leather should look correct, suede should have proper nap and texture. The material should not look cheap or plastic-like.
  • **Prints and logos**: Check alignment, font, and spacing. Logo placement is one of the most common flaws. Compare to a retail reference.
  • **Sole**: Check color, texture, and stamp quality. The sole should match the retail version in both color and texture.
  • **Insole measurement**: Always request this. The insole length confirms the actual size. Compare to the size chart.
  • **Inside label**: Check the size label and production code. These should match the expected format.

Hoodies/Sweaters QC Checklist

  • **Embroidery**: Check thread count, alignment, and spacing. Embroidery should be tight, not loose. The threads should not be fuzzy or frayed.
  • **Tags**: Neck tags, wash tags, and hang tags should match retail. Check font, spacing, and material. Incorrect tags are a common flaw.
  • **Drawstrings**: Should have correct tips and length. Metal tips should match the retail version.
  • **Pockets**: Alignment and stitching. Kangaroo pockets should be centered and symmetrical.
  • **Inside stitching**: Should be clean with no loose threads. The interior construction reveals quality.
  • **Fabric weight**: Should feel correct. Too thin indicates poor quality. Too thick might be wrong for the season.

T-Shirts QC Checklist

  • **Print quality**: Check for cracks, fading, or misalignment. The print should look fresh, not worn.
  • **Neck tag**: Should match the brand's current tag style. Tags change over time, so check for the correct era.
  • **Shoulder stitching**: Should have correct construction. The stitching across the shoulder should be clean and straight.
  • **Fabric weight**: Should feel correct. Not too thin or too thick. The fabric should feel premium.
  • **Sizing**: Compare to size chart provided. T-shirts often vary in length and fit.
  • **Hem stitching**: Should be clean and even. The bottom hem should not be wavy or uneven.

Jackets QC Checklist

  • **Hardware**: Zippers, buttons, snaps should function smoothly. Test the zipper pull. Metal hardware should feel solid.
  • **Lining**: Should be correct material and color. The lining should not be a cheap, shiny material.
  • **Pockets**: Count, placement, and stitching. Verify the number of pockets matches the retail version.
  • **Stitching**: All seams should be tight and even. Pay attention to stress points like the armpits.
  • **Fit**: Check proportions in the flat lay photos. The length, width, and sleeve proportions should look right.
  • **Hood**: If present, the hood shape and drawstring should be correct.

Pants/Shorts QC Checklist

  • **Waistband**: Elastic or drawstring should function. The waistband should look durable.
  • **Pockets**: Depth and placement. Pockets should be deep enough and properly aligned.
  • **Hem**: Clean stitching, correct length. The hem should not be frayed.
  • **Wash tags**: Should match brand standards. Check the wash tag for correct material composition.
  • **Fit**: Compare to the sizing chart. The proportions should match the size chart.
  • **Drawstring**: If present, check the tip quality and length.

Headwear QC Checklist

  • **Embroidery**: Quality and alignment. The embroidery should be clean with no loose threads.
  • **Brim**: Shape and stiffness. The brim should hold its shape.
  • **Closure**: Quality on snapbacks. The snaps should be firm and secure.
  • **Interior tag**: Should match brand standards. Check the interior tag for accuracy.
  • **Fabric texture**: For beanies, the fabric should be soft and stretchy.

Accessories QC Checklist

  • **Bags**: Check stitching, hardware, logos, and interior tags. The zipper should glide smoothly.
  • **Belts**: Buckle quality, belt length, and hole spacing. The buckle should feel solid and well-made.
  • **Sunglasses**: Logo placement, hinge quality, and lens clarity. The hinges should be firm.
  • **Wallets**: Stitching, card slot alignment, and logo placement. The stitching should be even.
  • **Jewelry**: Clasp quality and material. Clasps should be secure.

General QC Tips That Apply to Every Order

  • **Request additional photos if something is unclear**: Do not guess. Ask for more angles.
  • **Compare to retail photos side by side**: Open a retail reference on one screen and the QC on another.
  • **Check Reddit kakobuy qc posts**: The community shares known flaws on specific batches. Search before you QC.
  • **Do not approve items with obvious defects**: A small flaw is acceptable. A major flaw is not.
  • **Red light (reject) items that do not meet your standards**: It is better to wait for an exchange than to receive a defective item.
  • **Check batch-specific flaws**: Some batches have known flaws. The community tracks these.
  • **Request insole measurements for shoes**: Always. This is the only way to confirm actual sizing.
  • **Check lighting**: QC photos are taken in warehouse lighting. Some colors may look different in natural light.

Taking QC Seriously Is the Difference Between Success and Disappointment

Always review photos carefully before green-lighting shipment. The few minutes you spend on QC save weeks of regret. Use the category guides on this site to understand what to look for, then apply those checks to every QC photo you receive.

Remember: QC is not optional. It is the foundation of a successful order.

FAQ

What is QC in KakoBuy?

QC (Quality Check) means inspecting photos of your items before they are shipped internationally. The agent takes detailed photos at the warehouse, and you review them to approve or reject the item.

How many QC photos should I request?

Request at least 3–5 photos per item: front, back, side/detail, logo/tag, and any specific area you are concerned about. For shoes, add insole measurement.

Can I reject an item after QC?

Yes. If the item has defects, wrong sizing, or poor quality, you can request an exchange or refund before shipping. Once it ships internationally, returns are much more difficult.

What should I compare QC photos to?

Compare to retail reference photos. Search for the authentic item online and compare stitching, logo placement, materials, and overall shape. The Reddit kakobuy qc community also shares reference comparisons.

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