QC Photos Explained: How to Check Items Before Shipping
What Boonbuy QC photos are, what to check (size, stitching, materials, logos) and when to ask for a return or exchange. A QC checklist for clothes and shoes.
Author: BoonbuyFinds TeamUpdated: 2 min read
TL;DR: QC (quality check) photos are pictures of your exact item taken at the agent's warehouse before shipping. Check them for accuracy to the listing, the size tag and measurements, stitching and material quality. If something is wrong, request an exchange or return before the parcel leaves China.
QC photos (quality check) are pictures of your exact unit of a product, taken at Boonbuy's warehouse after the seller delivers it. Unlike listing photos, they show exactly what will go into your parcel.
Why do QC photos matter?
Because it's the last moment when a return is easy and cheap. While the item is at the warehouse in China, you can ask the seller for a different size or a refund. After international shipping, returns rarely make sense.
Checklist: what to look for in QC photos
| Element | What to check |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | Colour, shape, prints and details match the seller's photos. |
| Size | Size tag and measurements (photo with tape measure) match the size chart. |
| Stitching | Even, with no loose threads or crooked lines. |
| Material | No stains, discolouration, holes or pulled threads. |
| Logos & prints | Sharp, straight, not smudged. |
| Zippers & hardware | Working, without scratches or chips. |
| Shoes | Both shoes symmetrical, glue along the sole edges, toe box shape. |
How to ask for extra photos
If something is unclear, ask the warehouse for extra photos of a specific detail (e.g. "close-up of the collar seam") or a measurement (length, pit-to-pit). Short, specific requests work best.
When to approve (GL) and when to reject (RL)?
- GL (green light) — small differences you won't notice when wearing are normal for marketplace products.
- RL (red light) — wrong size, a clear defect, a different colour or model than ordered. Request an exchange or return from the order panel.
The BoonbuyFinds QC score
Every product in our spreadsheet has a 0–10 score based on QC photos and community feedback: accuracy, finish, materials and sizing. The methodology is on our About page.
FAQ
Are QC photos on Boonbuy free?
Basic QC photos are taken when the item arrives at the warehouse. Extra photos or detailed measurements may be an additional service — check the current rules in your Boonbuy account.
What do GL and RL mean?
GL (green light) means you approve the item after QC photos; RL (red light) means you reject it and ask for an exchange or return.
