When the approved sample looks right but the bulk shipment is defective or different, the evidence must compare samples, specifications, inspection reports, shipment records, communications, and the correct Chinese supplier identity.
Keep approved samples, photos, videos, specifications, drawings, packaging, labels, and dated approval communications.
Document arrival condition, inspection results, batch numbers, defect rates, customer complaints, and replacement costs.
Make sure the complaint, exhibits, translations, and Hague service package identify the same Chinese legal entity.
Chinese suppliers often dispute whether the shipped goods were actually nonconforming or whether the buyer changed specifications after production. A preserved sample and a clear comparison record can turn a vague quality complaint into a litigation-ready claim.
Collect approved samples, sample approval emails, purchase orders, product specifications, drawings, pro forma invoices, pre-shipment inspection reports, arrival photos, lab tests, customer complaints, and messages admitting replacement or refund obligations.
Watch for missing date stamps, no chain of custody for the sample, English trade names that do not match the Chinese manufacturer, unclear inspection standards, and acceptance language that may weaken rejection or warranty claims.
If the sample and defect comparison becomes part of the complaint, the translated exhibits should use consistent product names, entity names, and technical terms before Hague service begins.
Do not ship the only physical sample back to the supplier before counsel reviews preservation. Losing the benchmark product can make defect proof harder.
Contracts, specifications, inspection reports, photos, shipment records, payment records, notices, and Chinese entity details usually matter most.
If the proper defendant is in mainland China and a U.S. lawsuit is filed, Hague Convention service usually needs to be planned unless a court-approved alternative applies.
The trading company, factory, exporter, invoice issuer, salesperson, and payment beneficiary may differ. Naming the wrong party can weaken service, default, settlement, and collection strategy.