The Contract Quality Guarantee Procedure refers to the specific operational processes and rules regarding quality assurance in foreign trade contracts. It is usually an appendix to the contract or a separate clause that details how the seller ensures the goods meet the agreed quality standards, and how the buyer can raise quality objections and claims. Usage scenarios include: bulk commodities, machinery and equipment, electronic products, and other transactions with high quality requirements. Precautions: 1) The quality guarantee period, inspection standards (e.g., ISO, GB), inspection agencies (e.g., SGS, BV), and inspection location should be clearly specified; 2) It should be distinguished from the 'Quality Guarantee Clause,' which is a principled provision, whereas the procedure focuses more on operational steps; 3) It differs from the 'Inspection Clause,' which focuses on the right and timing of inspection, while the procedure covers the entire process from production to after-sales; 4) The handling of non-conforming products (return, replacement, price reduction) and cost bearing must be agreed upon; 5) Attention should be paid to the linkage with force majeure and claim periods. This term helps reduce quality disputes and clarify the responsibilities of both parties.
📝 Examples
1. According to the Contract Quality Guarantee Procedure, the seller shall entrust SGS to conduct sampling inspection before shipment and issue a qualification report; if the buyer discovers quality non-conformity within 30 days after receipt, they may file a claim based on the commodity inspection certificate. (Note: specifies inspection agency, time, and basis for claims)
2. The Contract Quality Guarantee Procedure stipulates that after installation and commissioning of the equipment, a 72-hour trial run is required, and only when all indicators meet the requirements of the technical annex shall it be deemed qualified; otherwise, the seller must replace parts free of charge. (Note: for equipment transactions, specifies trial run as a key step in quality assurance)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
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