CSSBuy QC Checklist: What to Check Before You GL
QC (quality control) photos are your only chance to catch issues before your items ship internationally. Once a package leaves the CSSBuy warehouse, your options are limited to local tailoring or resale. This comprehensive checklist covers the universal checks that apply to every category, plus category-specific points that you should request in your purchase notes. Mastering QC inspection is the single most important skill for reducing returns and avoiding disappointment.
Universal Checks for Every Item
These five checks apply to every item regardless of category. Make them your default inspection routine before looking at category-specific details.
- Overall shape: Does the item match the silhouette in the reference photos?
- Color accuracy: Does the color match the listing under warehouse lighting? Request outdoor lighting if unsure.
- Stitching quality: Look for straight lines, consistent spacing, and no loose threads.
- Logo placement: Is the logo or print positioned correctly relative to seams and edges?
- Hardware: For items with zippers, snaps, or buckles, check branding and smoothness.
Category-Specific QC Points
Each product category has unique QC points that matter more than others. Use these as a starting point and add your own based on the specific item you ordered.
| Category | Primary Checks | Secondary Checks |
|---|---|---|
| Shoes | Heel tab, toe box, midsole paint | Insole print, lace aglets, tongue label |
| Hoodies | Hood depth, cuff ribbing, pocket symmetry | Drawstring aglets, shoulder seam, blank weight |
| T-Shirts | Neck ribbing, print placement, shoulder seam | Hem stitching, fabric thickness, graphic crispness |
| Jackets | Zipper pull, baffle loft, lining seam | Collar rib, hardware branding, interior tag |
| Pants | Waistband, pocket depth, inseam stitching | Fly zipper, leg opening, thigh measurement |
| Headwear | Embroidery density, brim curve, crown alignment | Interior sweatband, adjustment strap, under-brim color |
| Sets | Color consistency between top and bottom | Drawstring match, logo placement, fabric texture |
| Jersey | Number stitching, mesh hole size, crest accuracy | Nameplate spelling, collar tag, side vent alignment |
| Accessories | Hardware engraving, stitching density, material feel | Logo placement, interior lining, clasp type |
Photo Requests to Add in Your Purchase Note
The purchase note is your chance to direct the warehouse inspector. Be specific. Vague requests like 'check quality' do not give the inspector enough direction. Instead, use these templates as a starting point.
- 'Please take close-up of logo/embroidery with measuring tape for scale.'
- 'Please measure insole/length and add photo with measuring tape.'
- 'Please take photo of item next to a measuring tape for reference.'
- 'Please check inside tags and add photo of wash label.'
- 'Please check for loose threads and note if any are present.'
- 'Please take photo of item under natural or outdoor light if possible.'
When to RL (Red Light)
Red-lighting an item means requesting an exchange or return before it ships. Do not hesitate to RL if you see any of these issues. The cost of an exchange is almost always lower than the cost of fixing a flawed item after it arrives in the US.
- Obvious color mismatch with the listing or reference photos
- Misaligned logo or print that is visibly off-center
- Damaged or torn material, holes, or stains
- Wrong size or completely wrong item delivered
- Missing accessories, hardware, or packaging components
- Significant stitching defects that affect durability or appearance
When to GL (Green Light)
Not every imperfection is worth an exchange. These minor issues are generally acceptable and match the batch tier you paid for. Green-lighting with these small flaws is normal and expected.
- Minor stitching inconsistencies that are not visible when worn.
- Slight color variance due to warehouse lighting or camera calibration.
- Small loose threads that can be trimmed with scissors.
- Imperfections that match the batch tier you paid for (budget batches have minor flaws).
- Slight glue residue on shoe midsoles that is common in manufacturing.
Pro QC Tips
Always request measurement photos in your purchase note if you are between sizes. Compare your QC photos to the authentic reference, not just the listing photos. Check the weight in the warehouse system; if it is way off from the listing, ask for a re-weigh. If you are unsure about a specific detail, post the QC photos in the Reddit community for a second opinion before green-lighting.
QC Checklist Summary
Print or save this summary for quick reference when reviewing your QC photos. Having a structured approach prevents you from missing critical details.
First Look
Check overall shape, color, and silhouette. Does it match what you ordered?
Stitching Check
Inspect all visible seams for straightness, spacing, and loose threads.
Logo & Print
Verify placement, alignment, and crispness against reference photos.
Hardware & Details
Check zippers, snaps, buckles, drawstrings, and labels.
Measurements
Compare provided measurements to your own and the listing specs.
Final Decision
RL obvious flaws. GL minor imperfections that match your batch tier.