What Is an In-Process Inspection?
An In-Process Inspection (IPI), also referred to as a During Production Inspection (DPI or DUPRO), is a quality control check conducted while manufacturing is actively underway — typically when 20% to 80% of an order has been completed. Unlike a pre-shipment inspection that evaluates finished goods, an in-process inspection gives buyers early visibility into production quality, allowing problems to be identified and corrected before they affect the entire order.
This type of inspection is particularly valuable for large orders, first-time suppliers, products with complex manufacturing processes, or any situation where early intervention can prevent costly rework or rejection at the end of production.
When Should You Schedule an In-Process Inspection?
The ideal timing depends on the product and production cycle, but most in-process inspections are scheduled when production reaches approximately 20–40% completion for an initial check, or 40–60% for a mid-production assessment. For high-risk orders, buyers may schedule multiple DPI visits at different production stages. The key is to inspect early enough that corrective action is still practical and cost-effective.
What Does an In-Process Inspection Cover?
- Production status assessment — Verification of how much of the order has been completed, what stage production is at, and whether the factory is on track to meet the agreed delivery date.
- Raw material and component verification — Checking that input materials, fabrics, components, or sub-assemblies match specifications and approved samples. Identifying material issues early prevents them from being built into finished products.
- In-line quality checks — Random sampling of semi-finished and finished units already completed, using the same AQL-based defect classification as a pre-shipment inspection. This reveals defect trends while production can still be adjusted.
- Process and workmanship review — Observing the production line, assembly methods, and worker practices to identify process issues that could lead to defects. This includes checking machine settings, soldering quality, stitching techniques, and assembly sequences.
- Packaging material inspection — Verifying that packaging materials (cartons, inserts, labels, poly bags) have been received and match specifications, so there are no surprises at the packing stage.
- Production capacity and timeline check — Assessing whether the factory has sufficient production capacity, workforce, and material stock to complete the order on schedule.
Key Benefits of In-Process Inspections
- Early defect detection — Problems caught at 30% production cost far less to fix than problems found in finished, packed goods.
- Supplier accountability — Regular production monitoring signals to the factory that quality is being tracked, which tends to improve output quality.
- Delivery timeline management — On-site verification of production progress helps buyers identify delays before they become critical.
- Reduced rejection risk — By catching issues mid-production, the likelihood of a failed pre-shipment inspection is significantly reduced.
Report Delivery
A detailed PDF report is delivered within 24 hours, including production status, sample inspection results, defect log with photos, process observations, and recommendations for corrective action. This gives buyers actionable information to communicate directly with the supplier.
Why Use InspectionService.com?
Submit one request and receive competing quotes from multiple vetted inspection providers in your manufacturing country. Compare pricing, turnaround times, and inspector qualifications — then choose the best fit. Completely free for buyers, with zero obligation.