₹1 Lakh Store — 90-Day D2C Playbook for Indian Founders

05 — Supply Chain

One bad batch can destroy your brand. Quality control is not optional — it's the difference between repeat customers and 1-star reviews.

2+ Samples<2% Defect Rate3-Stage Process

Samples Tested

Per supplier minimum

<2%

Defect Rate Target

Industry standard

100%

First Batch Inspection

Check every single unit

3-5%

Inspection Budget

Of COGS per unit

Quality Control Checklist

Check	Method	Pass Criteria	Priority
Product Weight	Digital scale	±5% of claimed weight	Critical
Dimensions	Ruler/caliper	±2mm of specification	Critical
Color Consistency	Visual in daylight	No visible variation between units	Important
Smell/Taste	Sensory test	Consistent with sample, no off-notes	Important
Packaging	Visual inspection	No dents, tears, misprints	Critical
Label Accuracy	Compare to spec	All text, MRP, dates correct	Critical
Drop Test	1m drop on hard floor	No damage to product or packaging	Important
Leak Test	Invert for 24hrs	No leakage, no seal failure	Critical

1. Before Order

Pre-Order

Sample Testing

Order 2+ samples

Compare side by side

Test durability

Verify specifications

2. At Receipt

At Delivery

Batch Inspection

Check 10-20% of units

Weight, size, visual

Packaging intact

Labels correct

3. Before Shipping

Before Ship

Pre-Ship QC

Final visual check

Correct product variant

Include thank you card

Seal package properly

Quality Control — Must Complete

2+ samples ordered and tested from each supplier

Quality spec document created (weight, size, color, smell)

10-20% batch inspection process defined

Reject criteria documented (what constitutes a failed unit)

Pre-ship QC checklist printed and used for every order

Customer feedback loop informing QC standards