QC photos are your only chance to catch problems before an item ships across the ocean. Once it is in the mail, fixing mistakes is expensive or impossible. Treat QC as a mandatory step, not a bonus.
Shoes: What to Check
Look at the toe box shape, the heel tab alignment, the stitching around the swoosh or logo, and the outsole color. Compare the photos to retail images from StockX or GOAT. Pay special attention to the tongue tag and insole text. These are common flaws that get missed.
Clothing: What to Check
Check the embroidery or print alignment, the tag placement, and the wash tag details. Feel the fabric through the photo as best as you can. If it looks thin or the print looks cracked, ask for an exchange. For hoodies, check the drawstring eyelets and the inside fleece texture.
Common Mistakes
The biggest mistake is rushing. Buyers see the warehouse photo and instantly GL (green light) without zooming in. The second mistake is being too picky. Minor thread differences or tiny font spacing issues are not callout-able on foot. Focus on the flaws that are visible from 3 feet away.
When to RL vs GL
RL (red light) if there is a major flaw: wrong color, misaligned logo, wrong shape, or obvious material issues. GL if the flaws are minor and within the expected range for the price tier. If you paid $40 for a $400 retail item, accept that it will not be 1:1. Pay for the tier that matches your standards.