During Production Inspection: A Complete Guide to Smarter Quality Control

TESTCOO/August 25, 2025

during-production-inspection-quality-control-guide

↵

In today’s global supply chain, buyers and brands cannot afford to wait until the end of production to uncover defects. By that time, mistakes are costly to fix, deadlines are impossible to meet and reputations are at risk.

This is where During Production Inspection (DUPRO) plays a critical role. DUPRO is a proactive quality control step carried out when 20–80% of production is completed. It allows buyers, importers and brands to detect and resolve issues early ensuring products meet requirements before reaching the final stages.

At Testcoo, we often remind our clients: “Catching defects early isn’t just cheaper, it’s smarter.” In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about DUPRO, including its process, benefits and how it supports compliance with global standards like ASTM, ISO, BSCI and SMETA.

What is During Production Inspection (DUPRO)?

During Production Inspection (DUPRO) is a type of third-party quality inspection conducted while goods are still being manufactured. Unlike pre-production inspection (done before manufacturing starts) or final random inspection (done after production is complete), DUPRO provides a mid-production checkpoint.

It helps answer critical questions such as:

Are products being manufactured according to specifications?
Are raw materials and components consistent with requirements?
Is the factory following the buyer’s approved standards?
Are there risks of shipment delays or compliance issues?

DUPRO ensures you stay in control even if production is happening thousands of miles away.

Also read: Detailed Explanation of Third-Party Inspections: FAI, IPC, DUPRO, FRI, PSI, CLC

Why is DUPRO Important?

During Production Inspection (DUPRO) is more than just a checkpoint, it’s a proactive quality assurance tool. By monitoring production while it’s still in progress, businesses gain the opportunity to identify defects, bottlenecks or process inefficiencies before they escalate into costly problems. Instead of waiting until the final stage, DUPRO empowers brands, importers and manufacturers to make corrections early, safeguard timelines and ensure consistency across batches. In highly competitive markets, this inspection stage is often the difference between delivering products that meet customer expectations and facing rework, delays or reputational risks.

1. Early Detection of Defects

If major quality issues are found only at the final stage, the entire batch may need rework or even rejection. DUPRO catches problems when they are still fixable.

2. Ensures On-Time Delivery

Inspectors can identify whether production is on schedule. If delays are spotted, buyers can take corrective action before it’s too late.

3. Verifies Material Consistency

DUPRO checks whether the same raw materials and components are being used throughout the production. This prevents quality deviations from one batch to another.

4. Reduces Financial Losses

Detecting and correcting problems early avoids high costs linked to rework, product recalls or missed deadlines.

5. Builds Trust in the Supply Chain

When buyers and suppliers know that production is being monitored, it promotes accountability, transparency and long-term partnerships.

Discover our Complete Guide on Quality Inspection

When Should You Conduct DUPRO?

Typically, DUPRO is carried out when 20–80% of goods are produced. The exact timing depends on:

Complexity of product: For high-value or technical products (electronics, medical devices), earlier inspection is better.
Supplier reliability: For new or untested factories, more frequent DUPRO checks may be needed.
Order size: Large orders benefit from multiple checkpoints.

At Testcoo, we recommend at least one DUPRO for every new supplier and regular DUPROs for high-risk categories like apparel, toys and electronics.

The DUPRO Inspection Process

Here’s a step-by-step overview of how a During Production Inspection typically works in Testcoo:

1. Preparation

The buyer or importer provides the inspection company with product specifications, AQL sampling standards and checklists.
The inspector schedules a visit with the factory.

2. On-Site Inspection

Inspectors check the production line, workstations and warehouse.
Samples are randomly selected from semi-finished and finished products using AQL sampling (ISO 2859-1 standard).

3. Checklist Verification

Dimensions, functions, safety, labeling and packaging are verified.
Tests (mechanical, functional or visual) are carried out depending on product type.

4. Defect Classification

Defects are categorized as Critical, Major or Minor.
Root causes are noted (materials, process, training gaps).

5. Report Generation

A detailed inspection report with photos, defect counts and recommendations is shared with the buyer within 24 hours.

↵

What Inspectors Look for in DUPRO?

Before products leave the factory floor, During Production Inspection (DUPRO) ensures that quality issues are caught early rather than at the final stage when fixing them becomes costly and time-consuming. By monitoring production progress and verifying that processes align with client specifications, DUPRO acts as a safeguard against surprises. This proactive approach helps brands maintain trust, reduce rework and keep shipments on track. Below are the key checkpoints inspectors carefully evaluate during DUPRO.

Workmanship: Are products being manufactured with consistency and accuracy?
Raw Materials: Do they match approved samples?
Compliance: Are standards (ASTM, ISO, BSCI, SMETA) followed?
Functional Testing: Do products work as intended?
Safety Checks: Are there any hazards (sharp edges, electrical risks)?
Labeling & Packaging: Is it correct, durable and compliant with regulations?
Production Timeline: Is the order on track?

Industries That Benefit Most from DUPRO

Apparel & Textiles – Detect stitching errors, fabric defects, incorrect labels.
Consumer Electronics – Prevent functional failures, wrong components, safety hazards.
Toys & Children’s Products – Ensure compliance with strict safety standards.
Furniture & Home Goods – Verify durability, stability, finishing.
Automotive Parts – Catch material inconsistencies early.
Food & Packaging – Monitor hygiene and labeling accuracy.

DUPRO vs. Other Inspections

Inspection Type	When Conducted	Purpose
Initial Production Check (IPC)	Before production starts	Verify raw materials, machinery readiness
During Production Inspection (DUPRO)	20–80% production completed	Detect defects early, check consistency
Final Random Inspection (FRI)	After 100% production completed	Ensure finished goods meet requirements
Loading Supervision (LS)	During loading process	Confirm correct quantity & safe shipment

Best practice: Combine DUPRO + Final Random Inspection for maximum quality control.

How DUPRO Supports Compliance?

Global brands today face pressure to not only deliver good quality but also comply with ethical and safety standards. DUPRO helps ensure:

ASTM & ISO Standards – Products meet durability, safety and performance requirements.
BSCI & SMETA – Factories are socially compliant (fair wages, safe working conditions).
Market Regulations – Products align with EU, US and Middle East import standards.

How Testcoo Adds Value with DUPRO?

At Testcoo, we understand that brands and buyers need more than a routine check; they need actionable insights that help safeguard quality while optimizing efficiency. Our DUPRO services go beyond identifying issues; we provide practical solutions and data-driven guidance that empower suppliers and buyers to make informed decisions. This proactive approach helps businesses maintain consistency, reduce risks and build trust across global supply chains. We ensure:

Comprehensive Reporting with photos, defect counts and risk analysis.
Customized Checklists aligned with your product and market requirements.
Global Coverage – Whether your factory is in China, India, Vietnam or Turkey.
Speed & Transparency – Reports delivered within 24 hours.
Digital Advantage – Our platform allows real-time tracking of inspections.

Practical Tips to Get the Best from DUPRO

To truly unlock the value of During Production Inspection (DUPRO), brands and suppliers need more than just a checklist, they need a proactive strategy. DUPRO is not simply about spotting defects on the production line; it’s about building a culture of quality, reducing costly rework and ensuring smoother order fulfillment. When carried out effectively, DUPRO bridges the gap between factory floors and market expectations. But how do you make the most of it? The answer lies in applying the following proven best practices that turn inspections into strategic advantages:

Share clear specifications and approved samples with inspectors.
Use DUPRO in combination with Final Random Inspection.
Set realistic timelines for production + inspections.
Choose a third-party inspection company to avoid bias.
Act quickly on findings to prevent delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the purpose of During Production Inspection?

To identify defects early, verify material consistency and ensure on-time delivery.

At what stage should DUPRO be conducted?

When 20–80% of production is complete.

Is DUPRO necessary if I already do a final inspection?

Yes. DUPRO prevents defects from reaching the final stage, saving time and money.

Can DUPRO help with compliance standards?

Absolutely. It helps align production with ASTM, ISO, BSCI and SMETA requirements.

How often should I schedule DUPRO?

At least once per new supplier and regularly for high-risk product categories.

Smart Brands Don’t Skip DUPRO

In a competitive marketplace, quality is the real differentiator. Brands that wait until the final stage to check quality often face delays, reworks and financial losses. With During Production Inspection (DUPRO), you gain visibility, control and confidence over your supply chain.

At Testcoo, we help brands and buyers around the world protect their reputation and deliver products that meet expectations every time.

👉 Ready to strengthen your quality control process? Partner with Testcoo for During Production Inspections and ensure your shipments are in safe hands.

Download a sample report

ABOUT TESTCOO

TESTCOO is a leading third-party quality control inspection company headquartered in China and we are accredited by ISO9001, CNAS, AQSIQ, and IS0 27001. We provide product inspection, factory audit, testing, and certification in every sector around the world. With 500 full-time qualified inspectors and auditors, TESTCOO performs over 100,000 inspections annually and is trusted by more than 5000 global retailers, brands, and suppliers worldwide.

TESTCOO

Global Quality Control Service Provider

www.testcoo.com

Check us out!

Now in 30 countries

Check a free sample report