Question 1

When exactly should I book a PSI?

Accepted Answer

Book when your production is approximately 80% complete and packing has begun. This timing ensures enough product is available for sampling while still allowing corrective action.

Question 2

What if my order fails the inspection?

Accepted Answer

We document all failures with photos and videos and specific defect codes. We then coordinate with your supplier on corrective action. A re-inspection can be booked at a reduced rate.

Question 3

How do you know what to inspect for carpets vs cashmere vs felt?

Accepted Answer

Our inspectors are trained in each product category. For carpets we check knot count, pile height, and dye fastness. For cashmere we verify fibre content and weight. For felt we check density, dimensions, and colour consistency. We use product-specific checklists developed over a decade of Nepal inspections.

Question 4

Do you use AQL standards?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All our inspections use ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 AQL standards. We recommend AQL 2.5 for most consumer goods. We can apply AQL 1.5 (stricter) for premium or high-value orders on request.

Question 5

Can you inspect anywhere in Nepal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We cover all major manufacturing districts including Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, Biratnagar, and beyond. Travel within Kathmandu Valley is included at no extra cost. For factories outside the valley, a flat USD 200 surcharge covers round-trip transportation and one night's accommodation.

Question 6

When is the right time for an MPI?

Accepted Answer

Schedule your Mid-Production Inspection when 30–50% of production is complete. This gives you enough product to assess while still having time to address any issues before final production.

Question 7

What happens if issues are found at the MPI stage?

Accepted Answer

We document all findings with photos and videos and provide specific corrective action recommendations. You'll have time to work with the supplier to fix issues before final packaging begins.

Question 8

Can MPI and PSI be combined?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for smaller orders we can combine both inspections into a single visit at a reduced rate. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

Question 9

How long does an MPI take?

Accepted Answer

A typical MPI takes 1–2 hours at the factory, depending on order size. You receive your report within 24 hours of the inspection.

Question 10

Do you inspect all types of products?

Accepted Answer

Our inspectors are experienced with textiles, carpets, garments, and handicrafts. We use product-specific checklists tailored to your manufacturing process.

Question 11

Why do I need a factory audit before placing an order?

Accepted Answer

A factory audit verifies that the supplier has the capability, certifications, and quality systems to fulfill your order. It protects you from working with underqualified suppliers and reduces risk of delays, quality issues, or compliance violations.

Question 12

What certifications do you check during the audit?

Accepted Answer

We verify business licenses, quality certificates (ISO 9001, etc.), export licenses, and any product-specific certifications. We also check for social compliance certifications like SA8000 if applicable.

Question 13

How long does a factory audit take?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive factory audit typically takes half a day to a full day, depending on factory size and complexity. You receive your detailed report within 48 hours.

Question 14

Can you do unannounced audits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can conduct unannounced visits to verify ongoing compliance. This is particularly useful for verifying that suppliers maintain standards after initial certification.

Question 15

Do you audit factories outside Kathmandu?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we travel throughout Nepal including to Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, Biratnagar, and other industrial areas. Travel within Kathmandu Valley is included at no extra cost. For factories outside the valley, a flat USD 200 surcharge covers round-trip transportation and one night's accommodation.

Question 16

How does supplier sourcing work?

Accepted Answer

You provide your product requirements, quantity, quality standards, and target price. We identify and vet suitable Nepal manufacturers, provide comparative analysis, and arrange introductions to the best matches.

Question 17

How many suppliers will I get?

Accepted Answer

We typically provide 3–5 vetted suppliers for your consideration. Each is pre-screened to match your specific requirements for quality, capacity, and pricing.

Question 18

Do I have to place an order through you?

Accepted Answer

No. Our sourcing service is independent. We introduce you to suppliers and you decide whether to proceed. We can also provide inspection services once you place an order.

Question 19

How long does sourcing take?

Accepted Answer

Initial supplier shortlist is provided within 5–7 business days. Full sourcing with detailed reports takes 2–3 weeks depending on product complexity.

Question 20

What industries do you source from in Nepal?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in textiles, carpets, wool products, cashmere, handicrafts, and garment manufacturing. Contact us for other categories. We may have additional connections.

Question 21

What trade advisory services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We provide guidance on Nepal export requirements, international import regulations, documentation, logistics coordination, and landed cost calculations. We help navigate complex trade requirements.

Question 22

Can you help with customs clearance?

Accepted Answer

We can recommend experienced customs agents and provide documentation support. For complex shipments, we coordinate with local freight forwarders who handle clearance.

Question 23

How do incoterms affect my pricing?

Accepted Answer

Incoterms define cost and risk transfer points between buyer and seller. We help you understand the total landed cost under different incoterms so you can price accurately.

Question 24

Do you help with Nepal export documentation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We assist with certificates of origin, export permits, and other Nepal-specific documentation required for your shipment.

Question 25

Is this a one-time consultation or ongoing?

Accepted Answer

Our standard package includes a detailed advisory report plus one consultation call. Ongoing support is available for active clients with regular shipments.

Question 26

Are there travel costs on top?

Accepted Answer

Travel within Kathmandu Valley is always included at no extra cost. For factories outside the valley, a flat USD 200 surcharge covers round-trip transportation and one night's accommodation. We will confirm whether this applies when you book.

Question 27

Do you charge if the factory is not ready?

Accepted Answer

If the factory is not ready on the scheduled visit date and we are not informed in advance (minimum 24 hours), a cancellation fee applies. We will always try to reschedule at no charge when given adequate notice.

Question 28

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Payment is accepted by bank transfer (USD, EUR, GBP) or via Wise. Payment is required before the inspection visit unless you have an established retainer arrangement.

Question 29

How do you verify knot count in Nepali carpets?

Accepted Answer

Our inspectors count knots per square inch (KPSI) at multiple points across the carpet using a standardized counting tool. We compare against your agreed specification and flag any deviations. For Tibetan carpets, typical KPSI ranges from 60 to 150 depending on quality grade.

Question 30

Can you test for chemical dyes and azo-free compliance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer on-site dye fastness testing for rub, water, and light fastness. For azo-free and restricted chemical testing, we coordinate with SGS and Intertek labs in Kathmandu. Sample collection and courier are included in our service.

Question 31

What felt products do you inspect most often?

Accepted Answer

Felted balls for garlands and craft use, felt slippers and footwear, felt home decor such as coasters, placemats, and planters, felt pet products such as cat caves and dog beds, and industrial felt sheets. Each product type has its own inspection checklist.

Question 32

How do you test felt density?

Accepted Answer

We use a calibrated thickness gauge and measure at 5+ points per item. Density is calculated from weight and volume measurements. We compare against your agreed specification and flag any pieces outside acceptable tolerance (+/-5% for most products).

Question 33

How do you verify cashmere vs pashmina fibre content?

Accepted Answer

We conduct on-site burn tests (cashmere smells like burning hair, wool has a distinct sulphur odour) and microscopic fibre analysis. For formal certification, we send samples to SGS Nepal or Intertek for ISO-compliant fibre blend analysis.

Question 34

What is the typical weight range for a Nepali pashmina shawl?

Accepted Answer

A standard pashmina shawl (70x200 cm) typically weighs between 180g and 250g depending on the weave density and fibre blend. Pure cashmere is lighter than cashmere-wool blends. We verify weight against your specification with +/-5% tolerance.

Question 35

What types of singing bowls do you inspect?

Accepted Answer

We inspect hand-hammered brass bowls, traditional 7-metal alloy bowls (believed to contain gold, silver, copper, iron, tin, lead, and mercury), crystal/quartz singing bowls, and machine-made bowls. Each type has distinct quality criteria.

Question 36

How do you test singing bowl sound quality?

Accepted Answer

Our inspectors use a standardized testing protocol: we strike and rim the bowl at consistent force, measure sustain duration with a timer, assess harmonic richness by ear, and check for unwanted overtones or buzzing. All findings are documented with audio notes and photographs.

Question 37

How do you inspect thangka paintings?

Accepted Answer

Thangka inspection requires specialised knowledge. We check canvas condition (no tears, creases, or warping), pigment quality (mineral vs synthetic), gold leaf application consistency, iconographic accuracy against reference images, and the wooden dowel and silk cover quality. Each thangka is photographed in high resolution.

Question 38

What wood species do you encounter in Nepali wood crafts?

Accepted Answer

Common species include rosewood, sandalwood, sal, teak, and lokta for paper crafts. We verify wood species through grain analysis, weight, and smell. For CITES-listed species we ensure proper export documentation. Our inspectors are trained to identify common wood types used in Nepali carving.

Question 39

What garment types do you inspect most in Nepal?

Accepted Answer

Hemp clothing such as shirts, pants, and jackets, cotton dresses and tops, hand-loomed scarves and wraps, yoga and activewear, and traditional Nepali garments like dhaka topis and pashmina wraps. Ethical fashion and sustainable textile brands are our fastest-growing client segment.

Question 40

How do you test fabric quality for hemp garments?

Accepted Answer

Hemp requires specific attention - we check fibre consistency, fabric softness, seam strength, and shrinkage potential. We also verify that the hemp is properly retted and processed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)

Mid-Production Inspection (MPI)

Factory & Supplier Audit

Supplier Sourcing

Trade Advisory

Pricing & Billing

Carpet Inspection

Felt & Wool Inspection

Pashmina & Cashmere Inspection

Singing Bowl Inspection

Handicraft Inspection

Garment & Textile Inspection

Still Have Questions?