QC before every pair leaves.

Place checks where correction is still possible.

A final inspection cannot repair leather shade problems, incorrect cutting direction, pattern mismatch, weak stitching, distorted lasting, poor surface preparation, or mixed packaging data after the order is complete. The quality plan should connect incoming material checks, cutting, stitching, lasting, sole attachment, finishing, pair matching, labeling, assortment, and packing to named standards and decision authority.

Before production, agree the approved sample, specification revision, measurement table, defect catalogue, critical points, tests, AQL or customer sampling method, and reporting format. During startup, review first pieces across representative sizes and colors. Inline inspection should focus on the operations most likely to create hidden or repeated defects, with corrective action recorded before output increases.

Release shipments with evidence

A final report should identify the order, SKU, quantity, sampled cartons and pairs, defect classification, measurements, functional checks, packaging and label results, photos, unresolved deviations, corrective action, and shipment decision. Retain signed references and reports for claims and reorder learning.

• Define critical, major, and minor defects using product-specific examples rather than a generic footwear list alone.
• Verify instruments, test methods, lighting, measurement positions, conditioning time, and report units before comparing results.
• Require written concession approval when a deviation is accepted, including quantity, risk, customer impact, and future prevention.