The most common complaints are about products that do not suit the market, fittings that fail, glaze and shape defects, breakage and missing parts. Many of them trace back to a loose specification or to quality slipping after the first container.
Almost all of them can be prevented with a written specification, sample approval and inspection before loading.
Wrong for the market
- The trap type does not match local drainage. Our guide on S-trap and P-trap toilets explains the difference.
- The rough-in size is wrong for the market, so the WC does not fit existing pipes. Check the standard rough-in for your market before you choose models.
- The flush volume does not meet local rules.
- Fixings do not match local wall or floor construction.
- Test reports do not cover the exact model or the standard the market requires.
Fittings that fail
Running cisterns, weak flushes, broken buttons and leaking seals cause many complaints. The ceramic may be fine, but the customer blames the WC. Specify the fitting type and supplier, and check fittings on each shipment. Keep spare parts so you can fix problems quickly. Our article on sanitaryware spare parts lists what to keep.
Glaze and shape defects
- Pinholes, spots and glaze runs on visible surfaces.
- Crazing that appears months after installation.
- White shade that differs between the WC, cistern and basin in one bathroom.
- Warped bases that rock, or wall-hung pieces that leave a gap at the wall.
- Seat covers that do not fit the rim or do not match the colour.
Breakage and missing parts
Broken pieces on arrival, hairline cracks found at installation and fixing kits missing from cartons are frequent problems. They are best handled by clear packing specifications, a breakage allowance in the contract and a packing check before loading.
Quality drift
Many importers find the first container is good and later ones are not. Fittings change to a cheaper supplier, glaze quality slips or grading loosens. Our article on why quality drops after the first container explains why this happens and how to prevent it.
How to prevent them
- Write a specification for each model that names the trap, rough-in, flush volume, fittings and standard.
- Approve a full sample, with fittings and seat, and keep it as the reference.
- Ask for test reports in the name of the exact model you sell.
- Inspect a sample of each model before loading, including a flush test and a fittings check.
- Ask the factory to tell you in writing before it changes any fitting, glaze or carton.
Paperwork and branding
- Certificates in the factory's name that do not cover private-label models.
- Barcodes, model codes or carton artwork that do not match the order.
- Packing lists that do not match what is in the container.
Next step
We write specifications that fit your market, approve samples and inspect each shipment before loading. To discuss your range, book a free sourcing review.