Step 1: Verify Every Item Has Arrived
Before reviewing any QC photos, confirm that all items in your haul have arrived at the warehouse. Agents typically send notifications per item, but delivery timing varies between sellers. It's common for some items to arrive 1-5 days apart. Wait for all items to arrive before initiating consolidation and shipment — this minimizes the per-kg shipping cost and ensures you review everything before locking in.
- 1
Check order dashboard for warehouse arrival status on each item
- 2
Verify the item count matches what you ordered
- 3
Flag any items that appear stuck or delayed (seller hasn't shipped)
- 4
Contact agent support if any item is more than 7 days without warehouse arrival
- 5
Confirm all items are at the same warehouse (consolidation requires same location)
Step 2: QC Review — The Non-Negotiables
Never approve QC without a systematic review. For every item: compare against the product listing photos to verify the correct item and variant was sent, compare against retail reference images for accuracy evaluation, check for visible defects (loose threads, print issues, structural deformities), verify the correct size/variant was delivered (especially shoes — confirm the size tag matches what you ordered), and check that packaging and tags are present if they were advertised.
Must Check on Every Item
- Correct item received?
- Correct variant/color?
- Correct size?
- No visible defects?
- Logo/print accuracy?
Category-Specific Checks
- Shoes: sole shape + toe box
- Hoodies: logo placement
- Jerseys: number accuracy
- Accessories: hardware quality
- Jackets: zipper function
Step 3: Request Additional QC If Needed
Standard QC photos often miss the angles you most need for evaluation. Don't hesitate to request additional photos. Common additional requests: sole close-up from the toe cap area (for shoes), heel tab close-up, interior label close-up, flat-lay with measurement tape for sizing verification, and lighting variation photos if the standard shots seem unusual. Most agents process additional QC requests within 24-48 hours and won't charge extra for reasonable requests.
When requesting additional QC, be extremely specific: 'Please photograph the tongue label showing the size number' is better than 'I need more photos.' Specificity gets you useful results.
Step 4: Consolidation and Packing Instructions
Once you've approved all items, configure your consolidation and packing preferences before choosing a shipping line. Common packing requests include: remove or reduce original boxes for shoes (saves significant weight), remove extra hangers for clothing (reduces volume), reinforce fragile items with extra bubble wrap, and separate electronics or accessories into shock-protected inner pouches. These requests can be submitted through your agent's consolidation request form and usually take 1-2 additional processing days.
Step 5: Choose Your Shipping Line Wisely
The final decision before approving your haul is the shipping line. Weigh your priorities: speed vs. cost vs. customs risk. For a standard haul of 3-5 items (1.5-3kg), EMS or 4PX Standard typically offer the best balance for US buyers. If you're shipping expensive items or large quantities, consider insured shipping options. If time isn't a constraint, the budget lines at $4-6/kg can save $30-50 on a medium haul versus express options.
