Samples are cheap to ask for and easy to misread. Without a plan, each one is judged against whatever you remember of the last. This guide sets out how to prepare the request, what to record on arrival and how to turn a handful of parcels into a scored comparison that you can explain to a colleague.
Decide the answer before you ask. A sample round has value only if the pass marks are written down in advance, because afterwards almost any sample can be made to look acceptable. Define the two or three attributes that matter and how you will observe them.
Ask for samples from the same stage of production you expect to buy, not a showpiece.
One good unit does not show a hundred. Ask how production will be checked against it.
A sample may be made by hand or elsewhere; ask how it was produced.
Test documents are evidence you ask for and check with the issuer; a sample cannot replace them.
State it in the request so there is no surprise on either side.
Return, keep or destroy; important if it carries your design.
Arranging movement of samples is separate from research and is yours to organise or to commission as a separate service.
A supplier search narrows the candidates so that each sample has a reason to exist. It does not hold, handle or test samples.
Attributes, method of observation, pass mark, and who will judge.
Same specification, same reference, same quantity, same date for response.
Condition of packing, labelling, what was and was not supplied as requested.
Remove supplier names from the units and score against the sheet.
Add the commercial side: terms, responsiveness, answers to your questions.
Pass, conditional, or out, with the reason.
Research reports what can be established from public and provided sources. It is not a guarantee about a counterparty's future conduct and not legal advice.
The number you can compare properly. Narrow with desk research first so each sample has a reason to exist.
Who pays is for you to agree with each supplier and record.
Only if your terms and any design protection allow it; check before you do.
No obligation. We read your request and reply with a straight answer.
Tell us what you need to find out and by when. We confirm scope before any work starts.
Request research