Checklist to Testing Product Samples Before Bulk Ordering

Did you know that 20% of all product returns are due to quality issues that could have been avoided with better pre-purchase testing? Whether you’re a business owner reselling NFC business cards or a company executive procuring them for your organization, receiving misprinted logos, weak builds, or incorrect dimensions can lead to costly setbacks, which can be avoided by testing product samples.

A comprehensive sample testing process is non-negotiable to avoid bad-looking and bad-functioning NFC cards.

This article provides a checklist to testing product samples. It will help you avoid defects, confirm quality, and ensure smooth reselling. Follow this checklist to make informed decisions and safeguard your business from unexpected risks.

Checklist to testing product samples

You must test samples before committing to a bulk order. It ensures that the final product meets your quality requirements and customer expectations. Skipping this can be a costly mistake. Throughout this article, we’ll use NFC business cards as an example.

Check detailed pricing and pricing structure

Ask for NFC business card samples upfront

Check customization options, such as colors, printing, etc. that the vendor provides

Compare multiple samples for consistency

Beware of red flags, such as negative reviews on Google or other platforms

Please go through the checklist to ensure a smooth experience with your bulk orders.

Discuss materials, components, and manufacturing processes

Good products are made with quality materials/components. Discuss used materials or components with your supplier before placing the order.

Choose the right material (plastic, wood, metal, acrylic, etc.)

Verify the NFC chip type and compatibility

Check printing and branding quality

Discuss card durability and lifespan

Workmanship and Acceptable Quality Limits (AQL)

Even minor defects—such as rough edges or printing errors —can affect customer perception and functionality. That’s why you must inspect workmanship and set an Acceptable Quality Limit (AQL) to ensure you receive defect-free products.

Examine edges, surface finish, and printing clarity

Verify AQL standards for defect control

Identify common defects

Set a defect tolerance threshold

• Acceptable minor flaws (e.g., tiny surface marks that don’t affect functionality).
• Critical defects (e.g., non-scannable chips or major misprints) that require a replacement or refund.

Test functionality and performance

When ordering NFC business cards in bulk, you must ensure every card works flawlessly before reaching your customers. A non-functional card can damage your brand’s credibility and result in unnecessary replacements. That’s why testing functionality and durability is crucial in the quality control process.

Check NFC scanning across different devices

Verify embedded links and digital business card profiles

• The correct URL opens instantly when tapped.
• The landing page loads correctly on both Android and iOS.
• There are no broken links or redirection errors.

Assess durability under real-world conditions

Verify dimensions and measurements

A card that is too thin feels cheap, while an oversized or bulky card may not fit in a wallet. Precise measurements are necessary to maintain a professional look and ensure compatibility with standard cardholders.

Confirm standard dimensions

Check thickness for the right balance

Ensure weight consistency in bulk orders

Review visual aesthetics

Poor print quality, misaligned logos, or surface defects can make your brand look unprofessional. Therefore, before committing to a bulk order, inspect the visual appeal of your samples carefully.

Check color accuracy and print clarity

Inspect surface quality

Test print durability for everyday wear and tear by scratching it or in other ways that are fit for your chosen material, such as twisting

Check packaging and labeling for shipping

Ensuring proper protection during storage and shipping prevents defects, maintains product integrity, and enhances the customer experience.

Ensure individual protection

Double check bulk packaging for durability

Check labeling details

Consider eco-friendly packaging

Note: Remember these points when choosing a shipping partner to sell your NFC business cards to your customers. Ensuring these checks will help you and your customers.

Confirm quantity verification

Verifying the quantity ensures you receive exactly what you paid for. A slight discrepancy in a sample order might seem minor, but it can lead to significant losses in bulk shipments.

Match the received quantity with the order

• Count the samples individually to confirm accuracy.
• Inspect the batch packaging labels to verify the stated quantity.

Ask about the supplier’s quality control process

• How do they verify order accuracy before shipping?
• What percentage of cards are checked for defects?
• Do they use automated or manual counting methods?

Clarify policies for missing or defective items

• Understand the supplier’s policy on replacements or refunds.
• Check if they offer compensation for shortages or damaged items.
• Set up a clear return or reprint agreement before placing bulk orders.

Set expectations for future bulk orders

• Specify your quantity tolerance (e.g., no more than 1% deviation).
• Request verification photos or reports before shipment.
• Consider hiring a third-party inspection service for large shipments.
• Discuss the pricing for future orders to avoid unexpected prices.

Checklist to choose the best supplier

You must also follow the checklist below to choose the best supplier or manufacturer. Doing this adds an extra verification layer to your bulk order.

Check business licenses and certifications

A reliable supplier provides legitimate business licenses and certifications. Before finalizing the order, verify the supplier’s credentials.

Verify legal registration and certifications

Ensure compliance with domestic and international orders

Assess supplier longevity and track record

Choosing a supplier with a good reputation and track record is necessary. Before placing the order, evaluate your supplier’s reputation.

Check how long the supplier has been in business

Review ratings and customer feedback

Request references or case studies

Ask about past production challenges

Evaluate shipping, logistics, and delivery time

Reliable shipping is crucial when ordering in bulk. Delays, damaged shipments, or unexpected costs can impact your business and customer satisfaction. Testing the logistics process with sample orders helps you identify potential issues before scaling up.

Test sample shipping speed and packaging integrity

• Check delivery timelines.
• Inspect the packaging.
• Evaluate how well the products are protected.

Ask about bulk shipping options and costs

• Compare standard vs. expedited shipping rates.
• Ask if they offer insurance.
• Confirm their preferred carriers and whether you can choose your own.

Confirm tracking availability for large shipments

• Request a tracking number.
• Ask about tracking options for bulk orders (e.g., real-time updates and delivery confirmations).
• Ensure customer support is responsive.

Plan for potential customs clearance delays

Summing it up

Ordering in bulk without testing product samples can lead to quality issues, unexpected costs, and dissatisfied customers. A thorough evaluation ensures that your ordered products meet high design, functionality, durability, and packaging standards.

Following this checklist minimizes risks and delivers a premium product that enhances customers’ experience.

Frequently asked questions