Color Difference

Color Difference refers to the visual difference in color between products from the same batch or different batches. It is a common quality inspection term in foreign trade industries such as textiles, apparel, toys, coatings, and plastics. Usage scenarios include: customer sample confirmation, comparison between bulk production and confirmed samples, and verification of color consistency between different batches. Precautions: 1) The acceptable color difference standard should be clearly specified in the contract, such as using the international standard grey scale rating (e.g., grade 4-5 is acceptable), or specifying the light source (e.g., D65) and viewing angle; 2) Distinguish 'color difference' from 'color fastness,' which refers to the ability of a color to withstand washing, rubbing, etc.; 3) Unlike 'color shift,' color difference emphasizes the degree of difference, while color shift emphasizes the direction of deviation. 4) Note that color differences easily occur between different batches and dye lots; the same dye lot fabric should be required for the same order. Distinction: Color difference is a description of the result, while 'color nonconformity' is a determination of contract breach. It is recommended to include a color difference clause in the PI or contract and retain the confirmed sample as the basis for arbitration.