Inspection before shipment is the point at which a purchase order becomes a verified delivery. It is especially valuable for industrial valves because a visual check alone cannot confirm pressure capability, internal materials, test results or documentation. The inspection scope should be agreed before production – not improvised after the goods are packed.
1. Confirm product identity and quantity
Start with the purchase order and approved documents. Confirm the valve type, size, pressure designation, end connection, material, quantity, tag number and any special configuration. Check that product markings and nameplates agree with the approved specification.
Photograph the overall lot, individual valve identification, nameplates and packing marks. For project orders, trace the photo record to the PO line, valve tag or serial number.
2. Check dimensions and visual condition
Measure the critical dimensions listed on the approved drawing: face-to-face length, flange dimensions, bore where relevant, end connection and actuator mounting arrangement. Check for casting defects, damaged threads, sharp edges, coating flaws, loose hardware or transit damage.
Visual acceptance criteria should be set in advance. Cosmetic expectations, paint system, color code, stainless finish and preservation requirements are all easier to verify when the standard is written into the inspection plan.
3. Verify materials and traceability
For critical service, verify the connection between the valve, its material certificate and its heat or serial number. Review material test certificates where included in the order. Positive material identification (PMI), hardness testing, NDT or other checks may be appropriate when the purchase specification calls for them.
Traceability becomes especially important for pressure-containing bodies, low-temperature materials, alloy trim and project work where documentation is passed to an end user.
4. Witness the relevant functional and pressure tests
The test plan should identify applicable shell, seat and functional tests, the test medium, duration, acceptance criterion and standard. Witness or review records for the tests required by the agreed specification. For actuated valves, verify open/close function, position indication, fail action and control accessories.
Do not assume every valve requires the same test. The right test program depends on the valve type, service, governing standard and buyer specification.
5. Review documentation before release
Typical documentation may include:
- Approved general arrangement and data sheet
- Material certificates, where specified
- Pressure-test and inspection reports
- Certificate of conformity
- Packing list and marking record
- User manual, spare-parts list and actuator documents
Check document names, quantities, date, purchase-order number and revision status before shipping. A correct product with unusable paperwork can still delay project acceptance or customs clearance.
6. Verify packing and export readiness
Confirm that valve ends are protected, cavities are clean and preserved as required, and accessories are secured. Wooden cases, pallets, labels, lifting points and moisture protection should fit the shipping method. For container loading, verify count, segregation, bracing and seal record where applicable.
Suggested inspection hold points
| Stage | Buyer control point |
|---|---|
| Before production | Approve specification, drawings and ITP |
| During production | Verify key materials and special-process requirements |
| Final testing | Witness/review tests required by PO |
| Pre-shipment | Check quantity, marking, documents and packing |
Source with a clear inspection plan
StarSprink can coordinate factory audits, in-process checks, pre-shipment inspection and container-loading supervision. Send your PO and technical specification to define an inspection plan before production begins.
Need an inspection plan? Browse industrial products or send StarSprink your inquiry.
FAQ
Is a pre-shipment inspection enough for every valve order?
No. Higher-risk or custom orders may need drawing approval, material verification and test witnessing earlier in the production cycle.
What is an ITP?
An Inspection and Test Plan identifies what will be checked, when it will be checked, the acceptance basis and which points require buyer or third-party witness.