Approve a magnetic tile sample as a controlled reference, not as a vague impression. Count the pieces, compare the approved SKU, record packaging and instructions, and write every exception into the order-release record before a production decision.
Freeze the reference before opening the box
Put the supplier quote, SKU or model reference, agreed quantity, destination market and requested packaging beside the sample. If the sample is a development or artwork proof, label that clearly. A changed sample should never silently replace the original reference.
Run the five-part inspection
- Identity: record SKU, version, package language, sample date and what the sample is intended to represent.
- Count and contents: count every piece; group shapes, windows, wheels, figures or other accessories against the approved list.
- Physical condition: note visible cracks, sharp edges, loose parts, surface defects, print quality and closure or storage performance. Record observations; do not infer a test result.
- Assembly and use: check the sample builds shown in the agreed brief and record where the actual set differs.
- Package and paper: check box or bag, labels, barcode fields, instructions, language versions and any included guide.
Photograph the open contents, count sheet, package panels and every exception. If an issue needs a technical or compliance answer, request the model-matched evidence instead of treating a visual check as proof.
Reconcile home-set contents by component class
A home set can mix plain tiles, decorated pieces, special connectors and scene components. The front-of-box total is only the beginning. Create one line per component type and record the agreed count, received count and exception. This is a stronger home-set acceptance method than copying a travel-tin lid and closure checklist.
| Component class | Count-sheet fields | Acceptance evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Repeated geometric pieces | Shape, size reference, agreed quantity, received quantity | Photo of grouped pieces and signed count sheet |
| Special building pieces | Window, arch, connector or other identified type | Match to the approved component list |
| Scene or non-tile components | Exact identity and whether included in the headline total | Contents reference; never infer inclusion from background scenery |
| Paper and packing | Instructions, language, pack insert, approved version | Package panels and actual included materials |
Record a discrepancy even if the full total is correct. One missing shape replaced by an extra square can preserve the total while preventing an advertised build. Keep count acceptance separate from finish acceptance and from market-document review.
Test the advertised build without improvising the supply
Choose an example from the approved product materials and use only the contents of the received set. Note whether the example needs repeated pieces that are unavailable, props that are not included, or instructions that do not match the current version. This is a buyer usability observation, not a laboratory performance test.
For a box-packed home set, check whether the components and paper materials can be repacked as agreed. Confirm any storage-bag inclusion rather than borrowing it from another model's description. If the agreed structure, contents or packaging changes, reopen the affected acceptance lines rather than relying on a general “sample approved” email.
Use a pass, hold or change decision
| Result | Meaning | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Pass | Sample matches the approved brief | Reference the sample ID in the order record |
| Hold | Information is missing or a difference is unexplained | Ask for clarification or a corrected sample |
| Change required | Buyer wants a deliberate modification | Update scope, quote, sample and approval record together |
Carry the approved reference into the order
Give the retained sample and count sheet a reference ID. In the purchase record, state the SKU, component-list revision, package revision and unresolved exceptions. Ask how the supplier and any inspection provider will use those references to check the actual batch; the single sample does not establish a statistical batch result.
Copy-ready inspection fields
- SKU/model and sample version
- Piece count and shape/accessory count
- Dimensions or package fields that were specifically agreed
- Visible finish or assembly observations
- Packaging, label, barcode and instruction status
- Photos and exception numbers
- Decision owner, date, correction and next approval gate
The sample order process explains the hand-off from inquiry to delivery. Keep this checklist focused on acceptance; it does not replace a formal production inspection.
FAQ
Is a sample a guarantee of the production batch?
No. It is an approval reference. Define how the batch will be checked against it.
What should be counted first?
Count the full set against the SKU record, then check shapes, accessories and packaging.
Should a buyer approve a changed sample?
Only after the change is documented and reflected in the final order record.
Request a sample review brief
Send the SKU, market, packaging expectation and sample photos. MagBlockPro can help identify which open fields need confirmation before release.