Why QC Matters More Than You Think
Quality checking is the single most important step in the W2C process that beginners consistently skip or rush through. Once you approve shipment and your package leaves China, your options for recourse are extremely limited. A thorough QC review takes 5-10 minutes but can save you from receiving a product you're unhappy with.
KakoBuy provides free basic QC photos for every order. These typically include 3-5 photos from different angles. For complex items like sneakers or detailed jackets, you can request additional photos for a small fee — almost always worth it.
General QC Checklist (All Categories)
Before diving into category-specific checks, run through this universal checklist:
- 1
Compare against the product listing photos — Does the item match what was advertised?
- 2
Check for obvious defects — Stains, tears, loose threads, or damage from transit
- 3
Verify the colorway — Colors can look different in photos. Ask for natural light photos if unsure.
- 4
Check tags and labels — Are they present, correctly placed, and accurately printed?
- 5
Verify the size — Ask KakoBuy to confirm the size tag matches what you ordered
- 6
Check packaging — For shoes especially, verify the box matches the expected style
Sneaker-Specific QC Points
Sneakers require the most detailed QC. Here's what to focus on:
Toe box shape from the side profile — This is the most common accuracy issue
Swoosh/logo placement and angle — Compare pixel-by-pixel against retail reference photos
Sole color, texture, and translucency — Check for yellowing or incorrect opacity
Heel counter shape and stiffness — Should match the retail silhouette
Lace quality and color — Often overlooked but can affect the overall look
Insole printing and cushioning feel — Request a photo of the insole removed
Clothing QC Points
For hoodies, t-shirts, jackets, and other apparel:
Logo embroidery or print quality — Check for clean edges, correct font, and accurate colors
Fabric weight and texture — Request a close-up of the material if it looks thin
Stitching quality — Look for loose threads, uneven seams, or puckering
Zipper and hardware quality — Check that zippers run smoothly and hardware matches
Wash care labels — Should be present and correctly formatted
Overall shape and fit — Compare the flat lay against the product photos
When to Reject and Request a Replacement
Knowing when to reject an item is just as important as knowing what to look for. You should reject and request a replacement if:
The item has obvious manufacturing defects (holes, major staining, broken hardware). The colorway is significantly different from what was ordered. The size tag doesn't match your order. The logo or branding is clearly inaccurate or poorly executed.
KakoBuy's dispute process is straightforward — contact their support with your QC photos and a clear description of the issue. Most legitimate defects are resolved with a replacement or refund within 3-5 business days.
QC Rating System Used by the Community
The W2C community uses a standard rating system for QC reviews:
Near-perfect accuracy
GL (God-Like)
Good quality, minor flaws
W2C (Worth to Copy)
Acceptable, noticeable differences
Decent
Poor quality, not recommended
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