Check supplier images against a sample before listing: Order the exact SKU, colour, size and package; photograph the sample as received.; The ACCC can require businesses to back up claims they make about their products.; If a material mismatch remains unresolved, hold the listing until the offer is accurate.
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Supplier Finding

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Checking supplier images against the actual sample

Compare supplier images with the exact sample, resolve material differences and check variant imagery before listing.

Desk Suppliers · · 3 min read

Compare supplier images with a sample of the exact product and variant you intend to sell. Record differences that could change what a buyer expects, then resolve them before using the images.

Match the sample to the listing

Order or request the precise supplier SKU, colour, size and package configuration. Keep its order reference, image set and specifications together. Photograph the sample as received, including views of labels, connections, closures, accessories and packaging when they matter to the offer.

If later batches or substitute components may differ, recheck the listing when the supplied item changes. A single sample is not proof that every future unit will look identical.

From sample to published image: the checking sequence

  1. Order the exact SKURequest the precise supplier SKU, colour, size and package configuration you intend to sell.
  2. Keep the paperwork togetherStore the order reference, supplier image set and specifications as one record.
  3. Photograph the sample as receivedCapture labels, connections, closures, accessories and packaging where they matter to the offer.
  4. Compare image against samplePlace each proposed image beside the matching sample view and mark the result.
  5. Resolve any mismatchConfirm which item and image are current, then correct the sample, the image or the listing.
  6. Recheck when anything changesNew photo, component, packaging, source or batch means the listing is checked again.

Compare what the buyer can see

Place each proposed image beside the corresponding sample view.

  • colour and finish, allowing for differences between screens, cameras and lighting;
  • shape, proportions and visible size cues;
  • labels, ports, fasteners and other distinguishing details;
  • accessories shown against what arrives in the box;
  • whether the image shows the selected variant; and
  • whether a lifestyle scene suggests an unsupported use.

Mark an image as matching, needing explanation, showing the wrong variant or unsuitable for the listing. If it shows several items, state what one purchase includes. If a measurement graphic conflicts with a verified dimension, correct or remove it.

The ACCC says it can require businesses to back up claims they make about their products or services. A qualification near an image can clarify a genuine limit, but it should not conflict with the image's overall impression.

What the buyer can see: image-to-sample checks

  • Colour and finish match, allowing for screen, camera and lighting differences
  • Shape, proportions and visible size cues line up
  • Labels, ports and fasteners are the same as the sample
  • Accessories shown are the accessories that arrive in the box
  • The image shows the variant the buyer has selected
  • Lifestyle scenes do not suggest a use the product cannot support
  • Multi-item images state what one purchase includes
  • Any measurement graphic agrees with a verified dimension

Check the image set buyers will see

Choose a main image that represents the selected offer. Check that choosing each variant shows the appropriate preview and that the gallery does not confuse versions.

Write brief, descriptive alt text for each useful image. It helps assistive technology describe the image and should reflect what is visible, without adding unverified features.

Resolve a mismatch

Ask the supplier which item and image are current. If the sample is wrong, obtain the correct one before approving the image. If the image is wrong, replace it. If a material mismatch remains unresolved, hold the listing until the offer can be represented accurately.

Recheck images when the supplier changes a photo, component, packaging or source. A customer report of a visual mismatch is a reason to investigate; it does not establish the cause on its own.

Mismatch found: what to do next

Sample does not match the listing
Obtain the correct sample before approving the image.
Supplier image does not match the sample
Replace the image.
Material mismatch unresolved
Hold the listing until the offer can be represented accurately.
Customer reports a visual mismatch
Investigate — the report alone does not establish the cause.

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