Inspection Instruction

Inspection Instruction is a written document issued by the buyer or seller in foreign trade, detailing specific operational requirements for commodity inspection. It typically includes inspection items, sampling methods, inspection standards, instruments and equipment, acceptance criteria, and record formats. It is commonly used when the contract stipulates pre-shipment inspection (PSI), arrival inspection, or in-process inspection; the buyer uses it as a basis for acceptance, or the seller arranges internal quality control accordingly. Note: The Inspection Instruction should be consistent with the contract's inspection clauses, letter of credit requirements, and international standards (such as ISO, ASTM) to avoid rejection due to conflicting standards; it should also specify the party bearing inspection costs, the inspection location, and time limits. Unlike an Inspection Report, which is a post-event result, the Instruction is a pre-event directive; compared to an Inspection Standard, the Instruction is more specific and operational, often referencing standards but including customized procedures. Foreign trade practitioners should ensure the Instruction is confirmed by both parties and attached to the contract as an annex to prevent quality disputes.