A Counter Sample refers to a sample that the seller produces by replicating or improving upon the Original Sample provided by the buyer, and then returns to the buyer for confirmation. Its core function is to confirm whether the seller can produce according to the buyer's requirements, and to serve as the quality basis for final delivery. Usage scenarios: commonly used in OEM/ODM orders and trade involving processing with supplied samples, especially when the buyer provides a sample but the seller cannot match it exactly; a counter sample can confirm an acceptable quality standard. Precautions: (1) The counter sample becomes effective only after written confirmation by the buyer, to avoid future quality disputes; (2) It should be clearly marked as 'Counter Sample' and confirmation records should be kept; (3) If the buyer's original sample involves intellectual property, attention must be paid to infringement risks. Difference from other terms: Unlike the 'Original Sample', which is the initial sample provided by the buyer; unlike the 'Reference Sample', which is for reference only and not binding; a counter sample has contractual quality binding force and is the baseline for the seller's delivery.
📝 Examples
1. We have made a counter sample based on your original sample, No. CS-2024-01. Please confirm whether it can serve as the quality basis for final delivery. (Note: The seller proactively provides a counter sample and requests buyer confirmation.)
2. After receiving the counter sample, the buyer replied: The counter sample is confirmed, but the color difference must be controlled within ΔE≤1.5; otherwise it will be deemed non-conforming. (Note: The buyer confirms the counter sample and adds specific quality requirements.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
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