The Ultimate MuleBuy QC Checklist for 2026

QC photos are your only defense against a bad rep. Once you approve them, the seller ships. This checklist helps you inspect every category like a pro before clicking that green button.

General QC Rules

Always request 5-7 photos: front, back, side, top, bottom, detail shot, and insole or label. Check lighting. Some sellers use soft lighting to hide flaws. Compare your photos to retail photos from StockX, GOAT, or Nike. If the seller does not provide enough angles, ask for more before approving. Never rush. You have 24-72 hours to approve QC photos depending on the seller.

Shoes QC Checklist

Check the toe box shape. It should be rounded, not boxy. Verify the swoosh placement. It should be centered and evenly spaced. Look at the tongue tag font. It should match retail thickness. Check the heel tab. It should be straight, not angled. Inspect the stitching. It should be tight, not loose. Check the insole print. It should be clear. Finally, verify the box label if you kept the box. If 3 or more of these are off, ask for a replacement or refund.

Clothing QC Checklist

For hoodies and T-shirts, check the fabric weight. Ask the seller if it is not listed. Verify the print alignment. It should be centered. Check the neck tag. The font should be correct. Inspect the stitching on the hem and sleeves. Look for loose threads. For jackets, check the zipper. It should slide smoothly. For pants, check the inseam and rise. If anything looks off, ask for a close-up.

Accessories QC Checklist

For bags, check the hardware engraving. It should be clean. For belts, check the buckle weight. Cheap buckles feel hollow. For sunglasses, check the lens tint. It should be uniform. For socks, check the ribbing. It should be tight. Accessories are small but can still have flaws. Do not skip them.

When to Reject

Reject if the flaw is visible at arm's length. Minor issues like a single loose thread are acceptable, but major shape, color, or placement errors are not. If the seller refuses to replace, ask for a refund and order from another seller on the spreadsheet.