Quality Control (QC) photos are your only chance to catch flaws before an item ships across the ocean. Once you approve, changes become expensive and slow. This KakoBuy QC checklist walks you through exactly what to inspect for every major category so you can approve with confidence or reject with clear reasons.
Why QC Photos Matter
KakoBuy sellers photograph your actual item before shipping. These photos are not stock images — they show the exact product you will receive. Spending five minutes reviewing them carefully can save you weeks of regret and return disputes.
The most common reason buyers are disappointed is not that the replica was bad, but that they approved QC photos without checking key details. This guide fixes that.
Universal QC Checklist (All Categories)
Before looking at category-specific items, run through this universal checklist for every order:
- [ ] Item matches the color and size you ordered
- [ ] No visible stains, marks, or damage on the exterior
- [ ] Stitching is even and consistent across all seams
- [ ] No loose threads or hanging stitches
- [ ] Logos and branding are correctly placed and sized
- [ ] No glue residue or excess adhesive visible
- [ ] Packaging is intact (if you requested it)
- [ ] Item shape matches the retail reference photos
If any of these fail, request a closer photo or reject the item immediately.
Shoes QC Checklist
Shoes are the most complex category to QC. Use this systematic approach:
Exterior Inspection
| Checkpoint | What to Look For | Red Flag |
|---|---|---|
| Toe Box Shape | Should match retail silhouette | Too flat, too rounded, or uneven |
| Swoosh/Logo Placement | Symmetric, correct height | Too high, too low, or crooked |
| Heel Tab Alignment | Centered, straight | Off-center or angled |
| Stitching Consistency | Even spacing, same color | Uneven gaps or color mismatch |
| Midsole Texture | Correct pattern, no excess glue | Smooth where it should be textured |
| Outsole Color | Matches retail shade | Noticeably different tone |
Interior Inspection
- Insole print: Font should be crisp, not blurry
- Insole glue: Should be clean, no visible adhesive
- Tongue padding: Should feel substantial in photos
- Size label: Check font and spacing against retail
- Inner lining: Should be smooth, no bunching
Packaging Check
- Box shape: Should be sturdy, not crushed
- Box label: Font and spacing should match
- Tissue paper: Should be present if retail includes it
- Extra laces: Should match the colorway
Clothing QC Checklist
T-Shirts and Hoodies
| Checkpoint | What to Look For | Red Flag |
|---|---|---|
| Blank Weight | Should look thick and substantial | Thin, see-through fabric |
| Neck Collar | Thick, ribbed, holds shape | Thin, flimsy, or stretched |
| Print Quality | Sharp edges, proper distressing | Blurry, bleeding, or random cracks |
| Drawstring Tips | Metal or branded | Plastic or unbranded |
| Interior Fleece | Dense, consistent texture | Thin, patchy, or loose |
| Hem Stitching | Clean, consistent chain stitch | Uneven or loose hems |
Denim and Pants
- Distressing pattern: Should match retail reference exactly
- Hardware: Buttons and rivets should feel weighty
- Inseam stitching: Should be chain-stitched on premium denim
- Pocket bags: Should be clean, not bunched
- Waistband: Should have consistent elasticity
Accessories QC Checklist
Bags and Wallets
- Leather texture: Should look natural, not overly shiny
- Stitching: Even spacing, waxed finish
- Hardware: Weighty, not hollow or plastic
- Canvas alignment: Patterns should match at seams
- Interior lining: Clean, properly attached
Caps and Headwear
- Brim curve: Smooth, gradual arc
- Embroidery: Dense, no gaps between stitches
- Strap quality: Solid snap or buckle
- Interior sweatband: Clean, properly attached
- Logo placement: Centered, correct size
How to Request Additional QC Photos
If the initial photos do not show enough detail, you can request more:
1. Be specific: Ask for "close-up of heel tab" instead of "more photos"
2. Reference retail: Say "please compare to retail photo I sent"
3. Request angles: Ask for side-by-side, top-down, or worn-shape views
4. Allow 24-48 hours: Sellers need time to re-photograph
When to Reject vs. When to Accept
Reject Immediately If:
- Wrong color or size
- Visible damage or stains
- Major logo placement error
- Completely wrong shape or silhouette
- Hardware is clearly wrong material
Accept with Notes If:
- Minor stitching variation (not visible when worn)
- Slight color variation in certain lighting
- Small glue spot that can be cleaned
- Packaging has minor dent (if you do not care about the box)
Reject for Exchange If:
- Batch is clearly wrong (ordered LJR, got budget batch)
- Size is wrong but the listing showed correct size
- Print is significantly off from retail reference
Common QC Mistakes
- Rushing**: Approving within 5 minutes without checking details
- Not comparing to retail**: Always have retail reference photos open
- Ignoring lighting**: Ask for natural light if studio lighting hides flaws
- Not checking the batch**: Confirm the batch code matches what you ordered
- Being too picky**: Minor flaws that are invisible when worn are not worth rejecting
- Not checking packaging**: If you want the box, make sure it is intact
Lighting and Photo Quality
Good QC photos should have:
- Natural or balanced white light (not yellow or blue tinted)
- Sharp focus on details
- Multiple angles showing all sides
- Ruler or coin for scale (if requested)
- Neutral background that does not distract from the item
If photos are blurry or poorly lit, request retakes before making a decision.
Summary
QC photos are your safety net. Spend time reviewing them carefully, compare to retail references, and do not feel pressured to approve quickly. A rejected item today is better than a disappointing delivery in three weeks.
Quick Reference Card
For every order, ask yourself:
1. Does it match what I ordered?
2. Does it match retail reference photos?
3. Are there any visible flaws?
4. Would I notice the flaw when wearing it?
5. Is the batch correct?
If you answer "no" to any of the first three, reject. If you answer "yes" to the fourth, consider accepting. If you answer "no" to the fifth, reject immediately.