GuideMarch 28, 202511 min readKakoBuy Spreadsheet Team

KakoBuy QC Guide: How to Check Quality Before Shipping (Full Breakdown)

Quality control is the most critical step in any W2C order. This comprehensive guide teaches you exactly what to look for in QC photos, when to accept or reject, and how to communicate with KakoBuy.

KakoBuy QC Guide: How to Check Quality Before Shipping (Full Breakdown)

1Why QC Photos Are Non-Negotiable

In the W2C world, QC photos are your last line of defense before an item ships internationally. Once a package leaves China, returns become extremely difficult and expensive. Taking the time to carefully review QC photos can save you from receiving a disappointing item. KakoBuy's QC service is one of their strongest features. Their warehouse team photographs items from multiple angles under good lighting, giving you a comprehensive view of what you're receiving. Most QC sets include 10-20 photos covering all major areas of the item.

10-20

Photos per QC set

48h

QC turnaround time

95%

Acceptance rate

Free

QC service cost

2General QC Checklist for All Items

Regardless of what you're ordering, these are the universal checkpoints to evaluate in every QC photo set. Develop a systematic approach and go through each point methodically rather than just glancing at the photos.
  • Overall condition: No visible damage, stains, or defects
  • Color accuracy: Matches the listing photos and retail reference
  • Logo/branding: Correct placement, font, size, and color
  • Stitching: Clean, even, no loose threads or puckering
  • Tags: Correct size, care instructions, and brand tags present
  • Packaging: Box, dust bag, or accessories included as expected
  • Symmetry: Both sides of the item match (especially for shoes)
  • Material: Looks and feels appropriate for the item type

3Category-Specific QC Tips

Different product categories require different inspection approaches. Here's what to focus on for the most popular W2C categories: For sneakers, the most critical areas are the toe box shape, sole texture, logo placement, and colorway accuracy. For hoodies and sweatshirts, focus on the print quality, embroidery detail, and fabric weight. For accessories like belts and bags, check the hardware quality, stitching, and logo embossing.
1

Sneakers

Check toe box, sole, logo, colorway, and sizing tags. Compare against legit reference photos.

2

Hoodies/Sweatshirts

Inspect print quality, embroidery, fabric weight, and zipper/drawstring quality.

3

T-Shirts

Check print placement, color vibrancy, fabric feel, and tag accuracy.

4

Jackets

Verify zipper quality, lining, logo patches, and overall construction.

5

Accessories

Examine hardware, stitching, logo embossing, and material quality.

4When to Accept vs. Reject

Not every imperfection is a reason to reject an item. Minor variations from retail are expected in W2C items. Here's a framework for deciding when to accept or reject: Accept if: The item looks good overall, any differences from retail are minor and not immediately obvious, the colorway and construction are accurate, and you're happy with the value for money. Reject if: There are obvious defects like stains, tears, or broken hardware; the colorway is significantly off; the logo is clearly wrong; or the item looks nothing like the listing photos. When in doubt, post the QC photos in our community Discord or Telegram for a second opinion before making your decision.
IssueSeverityRecommendation
Minor color variationLowAccept — normal in W2C
Slightly off logo placementMediumDepends on how noticeable
Obvious logo errorHighReject and request exchange
Stain or damageHighReject immediately
Wrong size receivedHighReject and request correct size
Missing accessoriesMediumRequest seller to include

5How to Communicate with KakoBuy About QC Issues

If you spot an issue in your QC photos, don't panic. KakoBuy has a straightforward process for handling QC problems. In the order management panel, you can leave comments on specific photos and request actions like returns, exchanges, or additional photos. Be specific and clear in your communication. Instead of saying "this doesn't look right," say "the Nike swoosh on the left shoe appears to be positioned 5mm too high compared to retail reference." The more specific you are, the faster KakoBuy can resolve the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

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