This checklist is written for private-label brands, importers and distributors preparing an OEM project. It does not prescribe one universal laboratory method. The factory and buyer must agree which checks, methods, acceptance criteria and records apply to the specific product and market.
1. Start with a controlled product specification
| Specification area | Buyer input | Factory confirmation |
|---|---|---|
| Product identity | Day, night, ultra-thin, longer-length or liner | Exact construction and sample reference |
| Dimensions | Length, width, wing and shape requirements | Measurement method and agreed tolerance |
| Materials | Surface, core direction, backsheet and adhesive preferences | Material specification and approved alternatives |
| Performance direction | Intended use and buyer-required review | Test method, sample condition and acceptance criteria |
| Packaging | Wrapper, pack count, bag or box, language and barcode | Artwork version, packing instruction and carton data |
The approved sample, written specification and artwork must point to the same version. If one changes, record the change before production.
2. Incoming-material review
Incoming inspection should focus on the materials that affect the approved product. The review may include identity, appearance, dimensions or weight, supplier or batch information, packaging condition and the documents required by the agreed specification.
- Confirm the material against the approved specification.
- Identify the supplier, batch or receipt record where traceability is required.
- Separate and record visibly damaged or nonconforming material.
- Define how substitutions or supplier changes are approved.
- Keep relevant records for repeat-order comparison.
3. Line setup and first-piece approval
Before a full run, verify that the setup matches the order: product code, dimensions, material direction, sealing, printing or wrapper orientation and packing instruction. A first-piece or setup sample provides a practical comparison point for the operator and inspector.
For a multi-SKU order, approve each size or variant separately. Do not assume that approval of one length, surface or pack format automatically covers the rest.
4. In-process visual and construction checks
| Checkpoint | Typical review | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Cleanliness, folds, alignment and visible damage | Finds obvious process or handling problems |
| Dimensions | Product length, width and component position | Confirms consistency with the approved spec |
| Sealing and bonding | Wrapper, wings, release paper and product integrity | Reduces opening, displacement and packing defects |
| Core and leakage-control structure | Position, continuity and alignment | Supports the intended performance direction |
| Printing and coding | Artwork version, readable codes and correct orientation | Prevents brand and traceability errors |
5. Performance review against an agreed method
Terms such as absorption speed, capacity, rewet and leakage protection are meaningful only when the sample condition, liquid, quantity, timing, pressure and acceptance criteria are defined. A buyer comparing factories should ask for the actual method used for the proposed product rather than a marketing adjective.
If independent testing is needed, define the sample source and version. A report from another product or an old material structure should not be treated as proof for the new SKU.
6. Finished-product inspection
Finished inspection should compare selected products with the approved specification and sample. The agreed plan may cover appearance, dimensions, construction, pack count, package integrity and product identification. The sampling approach and disposition rules should be agreed before production.
7. Packaging and carton verification
- Correct SKU, size and pack count
- Approved retail artwork and language
- Readable barcode and batch information where required
- Correct individual wrapper, bag or box
- Correct carton quantity and carton marks
- Product and packaging free from visible transport damage before loading
Packaging errors can make a technically acceptable product commercially unusable. Keep product approval and artwork approval as two linked but separate records.
8. Nonconformance and corrective action
The factory should have a way to identify affected material or product, stop or separate it, investigate the cause, decide the disposition and record corrective action. The buyer agreement should state when the customer must be notified and when rework, replacement or a new sample requires approval.
9. Change control for repeat orders
Require advance notice for changes that affect the approved product: raw material, supplier, construction, dimensions, process, artwork or packaging. Compare the repeat order with the retained reference and current specification instead of relying on memory or chat history.
10. Records buyers can request
Depending on commercial sensitivity and the order, useful evidence can include the approved specification, sample approval log, artwork approval, inspection summary, packing list, carton data, change record and shipment photos. Agree what will be shared before placing the order.
Quality-control questions for an RFQ
- Which checks apply to this exact SKU?
- What method and acceptance criteria will be used?
- How is the approved sample linked to bulk production?
- How are material or artwork changes controlled?
- Which inspection records can the buyer review?
- How are nonconforming goods identified and handled?
- How is pack count and carton information verified?
- What becomes the baseline for repeat orders?
Frequently asked questions
What are the main sanitary pad factory QC stages?
The typical sequence is specification approval, incoming-material review, setup approval, in-process checks, agreed performance review, finished inspection, packaging verification and change control.
What is an approved sample used for?
It helps connect the written specification to a physical reference for appearance and construction. It should be version-controlled and used with, not instead of, the written specification.
How should absorbency be tested?
The buyer and factory should agree the method, sample condition, liquid, timing, pressure and acceptance criteria. Results from an undefined method cannot be compared reliably.
Should every batch be inspected?
The inspection and sampling plan depends on the product, risk and agreement. Define it before production and state how failed results are handled.
How can buyers verify packaging quality?
Check the correct product, size, pack count, artwork version, language, barcode, batch information, carton quantity and carton marks.
What happens when a material changes?
The factory should record the change, assess its effect and obtain buyer approval when it affects the agreed specification or reference sample.
Which QC documents should an OEM buyer request?
Request the documents relevant to the order, such as the approved specification, sample record, inspection summary, artwork approval, packing information and change record.
Where can I discuss a Nafei sanitary pad QC plan?
Review the factory page and send the product specification and required evidence through the contact page.
Build the QC plan before requesting a price
Send one controlled brief covering product, dimensions, materials, performance direction, packaging and evidence needs. Continue with the factory selection checklist or request a project review through Nafei contact.
