Scarf Quality Control Checklist — Pre-Shipment Inspection

Pre-shipment inspection determines whether a scarf programme ships as promised. Here's the complete checklist used by professional importers.

Sampling Method (AQL 2.5)

Random sample based on lot size
500 pieces: inspect 50 (10%)
1,000 pieces: inspect 80 (8%)
5,000 pieces: inspect 200 (4%)
Pass rate: <2.5% major defects, <4% minor defects

Dimensional Checks

Length ±2cm tolerance
Width ±1.5cm tolerance
Fringe length ±5mm per side
Square scarf diagonal check (should be identical)
Measure 10% of inspected pieces

Fabric Quality Checks

GSM test on 3-5 samples per lot
Fibre composition — strand test
Independent lab test on bulk sample (recommended for first-time orders)
Yarn count verification
Weave density check

Visual Quality Checks

Colour match to approved standard (D65 lighting)
Print alignment and clarity
No stains, oil marks, or dirt
No knots, broken ends, or missing yarn
Even weave density across piece
Hem/fringe uniformity

Defect Classification

Critical: Fibre mislabel, dimensional >10% out, major stains — reject entire lot
Major: Colour mismatch, print off-register, holes, 2nd-grade finishing — count against AQL
Minor: Slight pilling, minor pattern variation, acceptable hem variation — count against AQL

Packaging Verification

Individual poly bag presence
Hangtag attached correctly
Care label stitched (position, legibility)
Country-of-origin label
Pack list matches physical count
Master carton labelling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard MOQ for scarf programmes from India?

For most scarf categories the practical MOQ is 200 pieces per colour per design. Cashmere and silk programmes often accept 100 pieces at premium pricing. Custom jacquard weaving typically requires 500 pieces minimum to amortise loom setup. Print-based programmes (digital, block-print) can go as low as 50 pieces for silk digital print due to zero setup cost per additional colour.

How long does it take from sample approval to bulk delivery?

Standard scarf production runs 30–45 days after PPS (pre-production sample) approval. Add 3–4 weeks for sample development (typically 2–3 sample rounds), and 18–35 days for sea freight depending on destination. Total order-to-delivery for a first-time programme: 12–16 weeks. Repeat orders without specification change compress to 6–8 weeks.

What certifications should I demand for scarves imported into the EU?

Mandatory: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (Class I for skin contact). For organic-marketed products: GOTS Transaction Certificate per shipment. For recycled fibre claims: GRS or RCS certificate. For wool-origin claims: RWS chain-of-custody. Also request independent fibre composition test per lot — mis-declared fibre content is one of the most common commercial disputes.

Can you produce scarves in specific Pantone colours?

Yes — Pantone-matched dye programmes are standard. Custom colour development takes 10–14 days and typically requires a 300-metre or 200-piece minimum per colour. Colour matches to Pantone reference are approved via physical strike-off on the specified substrate before bulk production begins. Colour drift between substrates (silk vs cotton) is normal — approve per fabric.

About Blueridge Trade LLP

Blueridge Trade LLP is a direct textile manufacturer — we own our own scarf production. Cashmere from certified Ladakh sources, spun on our spindles, woven on our looms, dyed at our OEKO-TEX facility, hand-knotted and finished under our supervision. Send us a specification and we'll quote within 24 hours with MOQ, lead time and FOB India pricing.