The last check starts before the last day.

Write the reference before booking the visit

An inspection needs something specific to check against. SGS describes its service in relation to the reference sample, confirmed specification, purchase order and packing instruction. Gather those references into a controlled brief instead of relying on an inspector to reconstruct the order from scattered messages.

For a flooring or panel order, our suggested document list starts with the product identity, approved appearance reference, dimensions, construction, order quantities and packing requirements. Identify the latest revision and the person who can resolve an unclear instruction.

Make the goods and the scope available

Intertek places final random inspection after production, when goods are ready and packed for shipment. Confirm the readiness and accessibility needed for the assignment before arranging a date. A visit cannot answer questions about goods that are not available to inspect.

Agree the lot definition, selected checks, sampling approach and criteria in advance. Dimensions, visible workmanship, identification and packing may belong in an on-site scope. Specialist laboratory testing or loading supervision may require a different assignment.

Read what the report actually covers

SGS describes sampling and reporting against a defined inspection plan. A sampled inspection is not a statement that every item has been examined. The report should make the inspected lot, reference, selected sample, findings and limitations clear enough to review.

Report element	The question it should answer
Reference	Which approved order and specification were used?
Scope	What was checked and what was outside the assignment?
Findings	What was observed, measured or documented?
Limitations	Which requested checks could not be completed?
Follow-up	What needs correction, clarification or reinspection?

Keep the release decision explicit

A finding, a corrective action and permission to ship are separate decisions. Agree who receives the report and who is responsible for deciding what happens next. Where a result is unclear, identify the specific question rather than converting uncertainty into a blanket pass.

Our PSI service is presented on that basis: a defined assignment, separately scoped and priced. It is not a substitute for product certification, an ongoing factory audit or a guarantee about every future shipment. Inspection enquiries are not connected in this development edition.

Sources & further reading

• SGS: Final Random Inspection scope and sampling
• Intertek: product quality inspections and final random inspection