QC photos are the single most important tool for any kakobuy spreadsheet buyer. When your item arrives at the kakobuy warehouse, the agent takes photos so you can inspect quality before it ships internationally. Once the package leaves China, returns are expensive or impossible. This guide shows you exactly what to look for, updated this week with real examples from Germany and French buyers.
What Are QC Photos?
QC stands for Quality Control. Your kakobuy agent photographs each item when it arrives at their warehouse. You get 3-8 photos per item, usually covering the front, back, sides, and key details. For shoes, they also include insole measurements to verify sizing.
Users recently discussed how some agents now offer video QC for an extra fee. While photos are usually sufficient, video can help with items that have moving parts or need to show texture under light.
Shoe QC Checklist
Shoes are the most complex items to QC because they have dozens of details. Here is the checklist experienced buyers use:
| Detail | What to Look For | Acceptable Range |
|---|---|---|
| Toe Box Shape | Should match retail silhouette | Slightly thick is OK, too boxy is not |
| Swoosh/Logo | Placement, angle, thickness | Within 2-3mm of retail position |
| Stitching | Even, no loose threads, right color | Minor flaws acceptable on budget |
| Materials | Leather grain, suede movement, mesh | Should look and feel right in photos |
| Color | Matches retail reference photos | Lighting affects color, check multiple angles |
| Insole Length | CM measurement matches your size | +/- 3mm is normal, more is risky |
| Heel Shape | Hourglass curve on Jordans | Some curve needed, completely straight is bad |
| Tongue Label | Text alignment and spacing | Sloppy spacing on budget, should be clean on mid+ |
Clothing QC Checklist
Clothing QC is easier than shoes but still has key points:
Hoodies and Sweaters
- Logo embroidery/print: Check stitching density on embroidered logos. Print should be crisp, not blurry.
- Tags: Neck tags and wash tags are often wrong on budget batches. Mid-tier and up should have accurate tags.
- Material weight: A good hoodie should feel heavy. If the QC photo makes it look thin and flimsy, consider returning.
- Drawstrings and hardware: Metal eyelets should not be rusted. Drawstring tips should match retail style.
T-Shirts
- Print quality: Screen prints should not look cracked or faded. Heat-transfer prints should not look shiny.
- Neckline: Should hold shape, not stretched out. Ribbing should be tight.
- Blank quality: Basic tees should not be see-through. Heavyweight cotton is preferred.
- Tags: Same as hoodies — budget tags are often wrong, mid-tier should be close.
Jackets
- Down fill: Puffer jackets should look fluffy in photos, not flat. Flat means low fill power.
- Zippers: Should be smooth and branded if the retail version has branded zippers.
- Seams: Check for straight, even stitching. Jackets have more seams than other items.
How to Use Reference Photos
The best way to QC is side-by-side comparison. Find retail photos of the exact same item from the brand's official website or a trusted resale site. Compare these details:
- Overall proportions and silhouette
- Logo placement relative to seams and edges
- Color under similar lighting conditions
- Stitching patterns and thread colors
- Material texture and finish
Keep in mind that QC photos are taken under warehouse lighting, which is different from professional product photography. Colors may appear slightly different, but major color errors are still visible.
When to Request a Return
Not every flaw is worth returning. Here is how experienced buyers decide:
| Issue | Budget Batch | Mid-Tier | High-Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor stitching flaw | Accept | Accept | Consider return |
| Logo 5mm off | Accept | Consider return | Return |
| Wrong size | Return | Return | Return |
| Material clearly wrong | Return | Return | Return |
| Color completely wrong | Return | Return | Return |
| Visible glue stains | Accept if small | Consider return | Return |
| Damaged in transit | Return | Return | Return |
QC Photo Red Flags
These issues almost always justify a return:
- Different item than what was ordered
- Obvious factory defects like torn seams or holes
- Size completely wrong (not just slightly tight)
- Wrong colorway entirely
- Missing parts (laces, accessories, extra laces)
- Strong chemical smell visible in photo notes
Common QC Lighting Tricks
Some sellers take product photos under flattering lighting that hides flaws. QC warehouse lighting is usually harsh fluorescent, which actually helps you spot problems. But be aware of these tricks:
- Flash photography can wash out colors — ask for natural light if unsure
- Close-up macros sometimes crop out shape issues — check the full shot too
- Some agents rotate the item to hide a flaw on one side
FAQ
How many QC photos do I get?
Usually 3-8 per item. Shoes get more because of the insole measurement and multiple angles. You can request additional photos for a small fee if needed.
Can I ask for specific QC angles?
Yes, most agents accept special requests. Common requests include insole measurement for shoes, close-up of the logo, and natural light photos.
What if I am not sure about a QC?
Post the photos in community channels. The kakobuy buyer community is active and helpful. Just be sure to include the batch name and seller when asking.
How long do I have to review QC?
Most agents give you 3-7 days. After that, they may auto-ship or charge warehouse storage fees. Review promptly to avoid issues.
Conclusion
Good QC habits separate happy buyers from disappointed ones. Take your time reviewing photos, use reference images, and do not be afraid to request returns when needed. The kakobuy system is designed to protect buyers — use it.
Ready to shop? Browse the kakobuy spreadsheet or check out our shoe recommendations for items with the most community QC data.
Last updated: 2026-05-04. QC examples sourced from recent community submissions.