How to QC Reps: Reading Quality-Control Photos
QC photos are your one chance to catch a flawed item before it ships across the world. Here's exactly what to look at, category by category, so you approve with confidence.
What QC photos are
After your agent buys an item, they photograph your exact unit at the warehouse. You review the pictures and either approve shipping or request a replacement. Take your time here — fixing a problem now is free; after shipping it's a headache.
The universal checklist
- Logos & text: correct font, spacing, and placement. Wrong fonts are the most common giveaway.
- Stitching: straight, even, no loose threads or skipped stitches.
- Color: judge under natural light; screens distort shades. Compare to retail reference photos.
- Proportions & shape: silhouette should match the real thing, not look stretched or squat.
- Obvious defects: glue stains, scuffs, crooked panels, loose hardware.
By category
Sneakers
Check the shape/toe box, logo placement, stitching around the swoosh or panels, the insole print, and the box + size tag. Misshapen toe boxes and wrong shades are the usual fails.
Clothing
Look at print alignment, tag fonts, ribbing, and color. For knits, check the gauge and any logo embroidery.
Bags
Hardware weight and color, logo embossing, symmetry, stitch count on pockets, and lining. Bags are detail-heavy — scrutinize.
Watches
Dial text alignment, date window centering, bezel action, and the second-hand sweep if shown. Small misalignments are common on cheaper batches.
When to reject
Reject for wrong fonts, clearly off colors, crooked logos, or visible damage. Minor thread tails you can trim yourself are usually fine. If you're unsure, most agents let you ask for additional photos. New to the terms in QC chat? See our slang & batches guide, then find your item on RepSheet.
FAQ
What should I look for in QC photos?
Logos and fonts, stitching, true color under natural light, proportions, and any defects like glue or crooked panels. Compare against retail reference photos.
Can I reject an item after QC?
Yes — that's the point of QC. If the item has real flaws you can usually request a replacement before it ships.
Why does the color look off in QC?
Warehouse lighting and screens distort color. Judge shades against natural-light references before deciding.
Do agents charge for QC photos?
Basic QC photos are free with major agents; extra angles or measurements may cost a small fee.