GFI Solution Matrix

What Type of Inspections Do I Need?

There are several types of inspections available through the production process. One of our Account Managers can help you choose what is best for you. Companies having large runs of product often use all services for maximum protection. However, for low to medium volumes you can choose less. We recommend at the minimum In Process and Pre-Shipment Inspections be performed.

What Other Services Are Important to Reduce My Risk?

GFI has an international reputation for providing independent third-party inspection and testing services. However our services do not stop with inspection. GFI can provide you solutions to your entire supply chain from the sourcing, manufacturing to final delivery.

Inspections

  First-Article Inspections

GFI inspects first-article samples prior to volume production. This verifies that product specifications are being met and avoids unnecessary reengineering work later.

  In-Process Inspections

These on-site inspections evaluate samples of your products selected during the manufacturing process. This confirms the quality of your product and allows any necessary changes to be addressed early on, reducing rework time and costs.

 Pre-Shipment Inspections

During a pre-shipment inspection, our inspector verify that finished goods conform to your specifications.

 Container Loading Supervision

GFI ensures that proper methods are employed during product loading, and we verify counts on-site.

Factory Audits & Testing

​ C-TPAT (Security)

The U.S. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism initiative (C-TPAT) is a voluntary U.S. Customs and Border Protection program designed to improve border security while also accelerating the processing of import shipments.

​Sustainability (ISO 14001)

Although we have offered ISO14000 (environmental) and SA8000 (social responsibility) audits for a number of years, many retailers are now requiring audits that combine elements of both of these standards along with additional elements covering energy usage, renewable energy, greenhouse gas emissions, materials and waste reduction, life cycle management, supplier’s supply chain activities and more.

 Social Accountability (SA8000 and ISO 26000)

These evaluations focus on the following areas: Health and safety, discrimination, disciplinary practices, working hours, compensation, management practices, forced labor, freedom of association and child labor laws.

 Supplier Process Control and Quality System

GFI supplier audits evaluate all manufacturing process control systems for existing or new suppliers using the ISO 9001 framework. Each audit report covers several areas, including evaluations of management, quality control methods, non-conforming materials, corrective action, and inspection and test equipment.

Supplier Capability and Qualification

Our Inspector survey your potential or new suppliers on- site and provide detailed reports on the general operations, quality systems, qualifications and capabilities of the supplier as a viable source.