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6-Stage Quality Control for OEM/ODM Sock Production

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📅 February 28, 2026 ⏱️ 5 min read 🏷️ Quality

Quality is managed throughout production rather than added only at final inspection. Our six-stage process is designed to identify material, construction, sizing, finishing and packing issues before shipment.

6
Control Stages
1
Approved Sample Reference
100%
Buyer Requirements Reviewed

Stage 1: Yarn Inspection

1

Yarn & Raw Material Check

Before knitting, incoming yarn and required material documents are reviewed against the order specification. Composition, color and testing requirements are confirmed according to the buyer's product and target market.

Stage 2: In-Line Knitting Inspection

2

During Knitting

During knitting, operators and quality staff check construction, pattern accuracy, size consistency and visible defects. Inspection frequency and acceptance criteria are defined by the production and quality plan.

Stage 3: Post-Linking Inspection

3

After Toe Linking

The linking stage is checked for seam thickness, skipped stitches, alignment and visible workmanship issues. The inspection method and sampling level are aligned with the approved specification.

Stage 4: Boarding & Shape Inspection

4

Heat Setting & Shaping

After boarding (heat-setting on metal forms), we check each sock for correct size, shape, and surface finish. Socks that are stretched, wrinkled, or don't match the foot form are pulled. This is also where we verify color consistency across the production batch.

Stage 5: Final Inspection

5

Buyer-Specific Sampling Plan

Finished goods are checked for dimensions, weight, color, labeling and packaging. The applicable sampling plan, acceptance limits and reinspection route are confirmed with the buyer for each order.

Stage 6: Pre-Shipment Inspection

6

Before Container Loading

Before goods leave the factory, we perform a final check: correct quantities, proper packaging, carton markings, and shipping documentation. We also take photos of the container loading process and share them with the client as proof of shipment condition.

The cost of catching a defect at Stage 1 is 1/100th the cost of discovering it at Stage 6. Early detection isn't just quality control—it's cost control.

Why 6 Stages Matter for Your Brand

For brand owners, a factory with a rigorous multi-stage QC system means:

Written specifications, an approved sample and agreed inspection criteria create a clearer basis for quality decisions throughout production.

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