COA Review Checklist
The exact test items vary by supplier specification and buyer agreement.
| COA field | What the buyer checks |
|---|---|
| Product identity | Product name, grade, and relevant identifier such as CAS 108-31-6 |
| Batch or lot number | Matches packing marks, invoice, packing list, and shipment records |
| Specification | The agreed acceptance limit for each reported test item |
| Result | Actual batch result and unit of measurement |
| Test method | Internal, national, international, or mutually agreed method |
| Date and approval | Test date, issue date, and authorized quality approval |
COA, SDS, and TDS Are Different
These documents answer different procurement questions and should not be treated as substitutes.
- COA: batch-specific test results for quality review
- SDS or MSDS: hazard, handling, storage, exposure, and emergency information
- TDS: general product grade, properties, and application information
- Packing list and invoice: shipment quantity and commercial documentation
FAQ
Is a sample COA the final shipment COA?
No. A sample supports pre-order review; the final COA should identify the batch supplied.
Should purchasing approve the COA alone?
Technical or quality personnel should review test results against the agreed specification and intended application.
Can buyers request test methods?
Yes. Test method references and any buyer-specific inspection requirements should be discussed before order confirmation.
Authoritative References
These external references support general chemical and trade information. Order-specific requirements must be confirmed separately.
