PSI (Pre-Shipment Inspection) is a third-party verification of goods conducted at the seller's facility before payment is released or shipping commences. PSI is the standard risk-mitigation tool for high-value or first-time wholesale electronics transactions.
A PSI report typically covers:
- Quantity verification, physical unit count matches the PO.
- Grade verification, sample-based cosmetic and functional testing against the agreed grading rubric.
- Lock and IMEI verification, sample IMEI checks against blacklist and Activation Lock status.
- Packaging condition, whether the lot is shipped as agreed (boxed/unboxed, with/without accessories).
- Photos and video evidence, documented record of the lot at the seller's facility.
Major PSI providers in electronics include SGS, Bureau Veritas, Intertek, and TÜV Rheinland for large-scale inspections, plus specialised electronics inspectors like AIM Control, V-Trust, and Asia Inspection for smaller wholesale lots. PSI fees typically run $250$1,500 per inspection depending on lot size and complexity.
PSI is most often paid by the buyer and arranged before the seller receives final payment under T/T 30/70 or similar structures.