Major Defect is a key term in foreign trade quality inspection, referring to a defect that is not fatal but seriously affects the product's function, safety, or appearance, usually leading to customer rejection, return, or claim. Usage scenarios include: inspection reports (such as AQL sampling), contract quality clauses, and claim negotiations. Note: A Major Defect is different from a Critical Defect, which may endanger personal safety or violate regulations and must be zero-tolerance; compared with a Minor Defect, a Major Defect usually makes the product fail when it exceeds the Acceptable Quality Level (AQL). Foreign trade practitioners need to clearly define Major Defects, allowed proportions, and handling methods in contracts to avoid disputes. For example, AQL 2.5 means 2.5 major defects are allowed per hundred units, but if major defects are found in actual inspection, the buyer has the right to request a price reduction or rework. Difference: Critical Defects lead to direct rejection, Major Defects can be negotiated, and Minor Defects are usually ignored.
📝 Examples
1. According to the inspection report, 5% of this batch of lamps have major defects, such as cracked housings causing electric leakage risks, and we request a 20% price reduction or a full return. (Note: Major defects trigger claim negotiations.)
2. The contract stipulates that the AQL standard is: critical defects 0, major defects 1.5, minor defects 4.0; if major defects exceed the standard, the seller shall bear the rework costs. (Note: Quantitative application of major defects in contracts.)
💡 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)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner