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.
PSI: common questions
What is a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)?
PSI is a third-party verification of goods conducted at the seller's facility before payment is released or shipping begins. It is the standard risk-mitigation tool for high-value or first-time wholesale electronics transactions.
What does a PSI report cover?
It typically covers quantity verification against the PO, sample-based grade verification against the agreed rubric, lock and IMEI checks against blacklist and Activation Lock status, packaging condition, and photo and video evidence of the lot.
How much does a PSI cost and who pays?
PSI fees typically run 250 to 1,500 US dollars per inspection depending on lot size and complexity, and they are most often paid by the buyer. Major providers include SGS, Bureau Veritas, Intertek, and TUV Rheinland, plus specialised electronics inspectors.