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Fabric Inspection

Fabric is the most important part of any Garment. Apparel Express gives most priority to fabric inspection for its own production and also help buyers across the globe to inspect bulk fabric to ensure below

1. Is the bulk fabric represent the approved swatch?
2. Is the weight of the bulk fabric is ok and with in buyers tolerance. 
3. Color Shade and surface of the fabric is ok and within buyers tolerance.
4. We do wash test to check Shrinkage and color fastness of the bulk fabric.
5. We also check the width of the fabric, whether the bulk fabric has same width ordered 
6. We also test bursting strength of the fabric

In a nutshell our fabric inspection make sure your fabric is what you have ordered and it solves 60% of the problems. Our detailed fabric procedure is below.

Method for QC on Fabric

Beyond these simpler checks, two industry methods used are the Ten point and Four point systems. The most commonly used is the Four point system. Within this system, fabric rolls are graded for defects. Each defect receives a certain number of points, and after inspection, of course you hope for the lowest number of points possible. The point system is as follows:
As you can see, the more severe the defect, the more points that will be taken off. It is up to the client to set the maximum number of defects per 100 yards, which is a maximum of 30 points per 100. The inspector will add up the defects points and then use the following formula to determine the rate of points per 100 yards.After finding the stats for the individual rolls, the client is given:

1. Average points of all rolls sampled
2. Proportion of rolls above limit

Generally, an inspection company can check 1000 yards at most during one day, so if an average roll is 50 yards, that would mean 20 rolls inspected, which is what the proportion would be out of. Inspecting fabric is quite time-intensive and requires significant expertise. In discussing with your QC agents your textile requirements, you can choose the best acceptable limit of points to ensure that you will receive a shipment of good quality.

In Line Inspection

What is an IN-Line Production Check?

An IN-Line Production Check is an on-site Product Inspection performed before your production begins, up until 20% has been completed. A preliminary inspection of all machinery and materials to be used in your production, an IPC is the first step in ensuring the quality of your product will be consistent throughout production. An IPC is an early-warning system that safeguards your product against costly import risks.

For all inspections, APPAREL EXPRESS uses the standard internationally recognized ANSI/ASQC Z1.4 (ISO 2859-1) statistical sampling procedure. These comprehensive criteria cover: functionality, performance, durability, overall appearance, and dimension.

When first output is coming out of the lines, we have to do an in-line inspection. We mostly advise to do inline inspection at the beginning of the output and in the 20% and output stage. However buyer can ask for more inline inspections. In-inline inspections are very important.

Pre-Shipment Inspection / Final Random Inspection (FRI)

A Pre-shipment Inspection is also Similar is Final Random Inspection or final inspection. Pre-shipment Inspection (FRI) is the detailed visual inspection of goods before shipment. It is generally conducted on the premises of the manufacturer, on samples selected according to defined sampling procedures.

This Inspection is normally conducted at on-site or source where product is manufactured and sometimes at forwarder’s premises.

The inspection criteria covering quality, quantity, marking and packing are based on the client’s specifications and reference samples, as provided. Upon completion of PSI a detailed inspection report is sent to the client and our inspection certificate issued to the supplier if all findings are positive. Bar code labels can be verified to ISO 9000 standard with our high tech verifiers. A printout of the scan test will be supplied. Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI) or Final Inspection It is also called as Final Random Inspection.

Techniques of Final Random Inspection (FRI)

A Detailed visual inspection is carried out with reference to:

• Quantity Check against PO/ Packing List
• Product style/appearance/description – Whether is it same as what ordered or approved sample etc
• Workmanship (Visual Inspection)
• Measurement / weight / specification
• Inner packing / Labeling / Packing and Packaging / Shipping marks etc
• And On site test which includes Functionality / safety/ Regulatory etc

What We Do

During the Pre-shipment Inspection in India, we cover all possible on-site checks of your products: Product appearance (AQL), workmanship, safety and functionality, quantity, assortment, colors/ measurements/ weight, accessories, labeling & logos, packing & packaging, and any other special requirements you may have.

Report

The report of the Pre-shipment inspection mentioned with the findings of all aspects of product quality in a details manner help customer to view the product standards from their place instead of travelling or visiting the manufacturing country / locations to take decisions of shipment.

Container Loading Inspection (CLI) / Package and Packing Inspection

During Container Loading Inspections (also called Package and Packing Inspection), our inspector will select boxes at random to confirm each carton bears the quantity of product ordered, the quality matches the specifications and/or approved sample provided by you, and that all packaging material contains the correct barcodes, labeling, and packing materials. The entire container loading process is strictly supervised; ensuring that the packed goods are securely loaded for shipment.

This inspection to guarantee that packed goods are securely loaded for shipment.

This inspection to verify that packed goods meet your specifications and requirements including:

• Product Types
• Quantity
• Labeling
• Shipping Marks
• Packing & Packaging

What We Do

Quantity check, packing list check, the container conditions, the loading process (cartons conditions, filling-up level etc), a quick look at the packaging & packing of your products.

Report

The report of the Container Loading Inspection /  Package and Packing Inspection mentioned with the findings of all aspects of Product Types, Quantity, Labeling, Shipping Marks, Packing & Packaging product quality in a details manner help customer to ensure the that shipment is as per their requirements / standards from their place instead of travelling or visiting the manufacturing country / locations to take decisions of shipment.

Ethical Audit Standards

For a modern business, an ethical supply chain is no longer an optional “feel-good” PR tool. Today, consumers, governments and NGOs are putting increasing pressure on brands and retailers to ensure transparency throughout their supply chains. Social accountability is an important element of a company’s sourcing and marketing strategy, which helps ensure better product quality, foster consumer loyalty, and emphasize good corporate citizenship.

Apparel Express offers comprehensive ethical audit programs that can be conducted according to international standards, your company’s in-house specifications or our own Best-In-Class Protocol.

All Apparel Express ethical audit programs cover the following aspects:

• Hygiene, health and safety
• Waste management
• Child and young labor
• Labor practices, including forced labor, worker representation, disciplinary practices and discrimination.
• Working hours and wages

Client-Specific Ethical Audit Protocols

If your company already has a social accountability program in place, Apparel Express can tailor its existing ethical audit programs to suit your needs and ensure the compliance of your suppliers to your specific requirements.

Ethical Audits to International Standards

Our professionally certified auditors can conduct ethical audits according to all major internationally recognized social audits standards, including:

• SA 8000
• SMETA (Sedex)
• amfori BSCI
• ETI (ILO)
• Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC)
• Initiative for Compliance and Sustainability (ICS)
• Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (FSLM)

Apparel Express’s Best-In-Class Ethical Audit Protocol

Using the best practices of existing standards and building on our own experience from performing over 10,000 audits every year, we have developed our own Best-In-Class ethical audit protocol.

When Apparel Express auditors visit a factory, they use GPS coordinates to confirm that your products are only being manufactured at the approved facility, and no unauthorized subcontracting is taking place.

Our on-site process consists of:

• Opening meeting
• Factory tour
• Document review
• Worker interviews (group and individual)
• Closing meeting with Corrective Action Plan (CAP) review

Furthermore, our Supplier Workshops (held before and during the audit) help educate your suppliers about the audit program, get them more involved and help them achieve compliance.

Our worker interviews are structured and held in a way that ensures transparency and honesty. During the interview, our auditors use voice stress analysis and cross-check information to detect any deception or inconsistencies. Factory staff are also given an opportunity to provide anonymous feedback.

Apparel Express Ethical Auditors

Apparel Express  has adopted an approach based on the key competences of auditors – attitude, skills and knowledge – in line with the reference tools developed by the Global Social Compliance Programme (GSCP).

All Apparel Express  auditors are professionally certified and undergo regular training to stay up to date with the latest standards and regulatory requirements. The average Apparel Express ethical auditor has performed 580 audits.

Why Perform an Ethical Audit?

• Ensure decent working conditions and human rights throughout your supply chain
• Comply with statutory requirements (e.g. Modern Slavery Act 2015)
• Prevent unauthorized subcontracting
• Receive an accurate picture of ethical compliance in your supply chain
• Foster cooperative relations with your suppliers
• Improve brand image and increase consumer loyalty

APPAREL EXPRESS Structural Audit Standards

Poor structural integrity and insufficient fire safety measures can have disastrous consequences. APPAREL EXPRESS offers structural audits to ensure that your suppliers’ industrial and commercial premises are safe, up to relevant codes, and present no danger to employee life and health.

Structural audits include a comprehensive check of buildings and premises, including:

• Verification of Load Conditions
• Evaluation of the Structural System of the Building
• Detection of Structural Defects, Damages, Distress, Deformation or Deterioration
• Plan and Alignment Check
• Assessing Maintenance and Exposure to Aggressive Environment
• Other Structural Surveys and Checks
• Fire Safety Check (optional)
• Electrical Safety Check (optional)

The findings of all structural audits are presented in a detailed report that includes an assessment of the current condition and suggestions for appropriate repairs and retrofitting measures.

APPAREL EXPRESS Structural Auditors

APPAREL EXPRESS structural audits are carried out by an experienced and licensed structural civil engineers. A typical Profile Auditor has over 5 years experience in the relevant field, including design and construction supervision.

Post Structural Audit

Based on the audit findings and recommendations, appropriate changes may be required. This includes repairs, strengthening of structural elements and replacement of damaged or faulty components.

APPAREL EXPRESS can provide follow-up services, such as live load analysis, redesign of fire/electric safety systems, and more, to assist the factory in implementing the necessary corrective actions.

Why Perform a Structural Audit

• To ensure safe working conditions, preventing injury and loss of life
• To protect your brand’s image and reputation
• To comply with statutory requirements (construction and design codes by country)
• To gain an accurate picture of the state of safety in your supply chain
• To prevent supply chain interruptions

Environmental Audits

APPAREL EXPRESS offers an environmental audit protocol that conforms to the ISO 14001 standard (performance evaluation guidelines for environmental management systems).

The ISO 14001 family of standards addresses a wide range of items for environmental management, providing practical tools for organizations and companies looking to identify and control their environmental impact as well as constantly improve their environmental performance.

A APPAREL EXPRESS Environmental Audit Program assesses factory compliance with local laws and regulations for environmental protection, as well as best practices based on ISO 14000 family of standards, which includes:

• Legal requirements and risk assessment
• Environmental management system
• Solid and hazardous wastes
• Waste water
• Air emissions
• Nuisance
• Energy use, water use, CO² emissions

Chemical Control Audits

APPAREL EXPRESS Chemical Control Audit Programs use protocols based on the global environmental Detox® campaign, Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals principles (ZDHC) or your own compliance requirements.

Chemical Control Audits typically cover:

• Management systems
• Sub-supplier management
• Incoming materials
• Semi and finished products
• Chemical-related production
• Specific chemical controls
• Waste management

Water Testing

APPAREL EXPRESS provides complete lab testing services and can efficiently combine water testing with an onsite environmental audit to offer a complete picture of the environmental performance of your suppliers.

Waste water testing typically includes:

• Onsite gathering of waste water samples by trained APPAREL EXPRESS auditors: influent water, water before treatment, effluent water.
• Waste water testing prior to treatment of water and based on restricted substances list (ZDHC, Detox® or your own list).
• If restricted substances are detected, samples of influent and effluent waters are verified to determine the source of the substances and whether treatment of water is effective.

Technical Audit

Technical audit performed by specific experts to ensure if the factory is technically fit for certain production. It evaluates deficiencies or areas of improvement in a process, system or proposal. This audit is a must for before you place any high end quality critical product. 

We provide list of machinery, origin of the machines, functionality of the machines. Also we evaluate workers skills and in line product quality.

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