Survey Clause

The inspection clause is a provision in an international trade contract that specifies the time, place, method, standards, and inspection agency for commodity inspection. It is usually linked with delivery, payment, and claim clauses. Its core function is to determine the basis for whether the quality, quantity, packaging, etc. of the goods conform to the contract, and to clarify the validity of the inspection certificate. Usage scenarios include: inspection in the exporting country, inspection in the importing country, inspection in the exporting country with re-inspection in the importing country, etc. Points to note: the inspection agency (e.g., SGS, CIQ), inspection standards (e.g., ISO, contract specifications), the party bearing inspection costs, and whether the inspection certificate is a required document for payment or claims should be clearly specified. Unlike the 'quality clause', the inspection clause focuses on inspection procedures and validity, not the quality standards themselves; unlike the 'claim clause', the inspection clause is the prerequisite and evidentiary basis for claims. If it is agreed that 'the seller's inspection is the final basis', the buyer's right to re-inspect may be limited; conversely, 'the buyer's inspection is the final basis' poses greater risk to the seller. Therefore, it should be reasonably designed in light of trade terms, payment methods, and the negotiating position of both parties.