Quality Checking (QC) is arguably the most important step in the shopping agent process. A thorough QC review can save you from receiving a flawed item that you would have returned if you had seen it first. This guide covers exactly what to look for, what photos to request, and when to approve versus return.
50,000+
Items QC'ed
12%
Return Rate
Sizing
Common Flaw
2 days
Avg QC Time
What is QC and Why Does It Matter?
Item Arrives at Warehouse
SuperBuy receives your item from the domestic seller within 2-5 days of ordering.
Standard QC Photos
Free QC photos are taken automatically: front, back, side, and logo close-up.
Review Photos
You have 7 days to review the photos and either approve or request a return.
Approve or Return
Greenlight if satisfied, or request a return with your reason if flaws are found.
International Shipping
Once approved, your item is packed and shipped via your chosen method.
Essential QC Photos to Request
| Photo Type | Sneakers | Clothing | Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Front | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Full Back | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Side Profile | Yes | N/A | N/A |
| Logo Close-up | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Size Tag | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| Insole Stitching | Yes | N/A | N/A |
| Material Close-up | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hardware Detail | N/A | N/A | Yes |
| Inside Lining | N/A | Yes | Yes |
What to Look For: The Big Six
When to Greenlight vs Return
Greenlight These
Pros
- Minor stitching inconsistencies
- Slight color variations in lighting
- Acceptable material differences
- Glue residue that wipes off
Return These
Pros
- Major alignment issues
- Wrong size confirmed
- Significant color differences
- Obvious material downgrades
- Damaged goods
Pro QC Tip
Always compare QC photos against retail reference photos on your phone, not memory. Human memory is surprisingly unreliable for small details like logo placement and color shades. Save reference photos in an album for quick comparison.
QC Timing and Return Windows
Day 0
Item arrives at warehouse
Day 1
QC photos uploaded (usually within 24 hours)
Days 1-7
Your review window — approve or request return
Day 7+
Return window closes, item auto-approved