Before you save
CNGoodsBuy Spreadsheet Checklist Before Saving a Find
Give each row one point for every check it passes. The score does not certify a product or seller; it simply keeps vague rows from winning your attention.
Score seven areas, but require visible evidence for every point. A high score earns a place on the shortlist, not automatic trust; a mismatched item, suspicious redirect, missing fit data, or unclear variation can still override the total.
Seven points
Check the row, not the hype
Read each statement as a yes-or-no question. Award a point only when the visible row or linked details support the answer.
- The item belongs in the category I am browsing.
- Photos show the details that matter for this product type.
- Sizing, measurements, or fit notes are visible when needed.
- Price makes sense beside similar finds.
- Shipping weight does not ruin the value.
- The row is not just hype or a vague label.
- I can explain why I would save this find.
| Check | A point requires | Do not award it for |
|---|---|---|
| Category fit | The label, variation, and destination describe the same product type. | A thumbnail that merely looks similar. |
| Useful photos | Angles or close-ups that show the risky parts of this category. | Repeated front views or catalog-only images. |
| Sizing | Measurements that can be compared with an item you already own. | A familiar size letter without dimensions. |
| Price context | The same variation, included parts, condition, and currency are compared. | The lowest visible number on the page. |
| Weight context | The status is marked as confirmed, estimated, or missing. | A visual guess presented as a measured value. |
| Row clarity | The source and product can be understood without relying on hype. | Claims such as “best batch” or “must buy.” |
| Reason to save | One evidence-based advantage over the closest alternative. | Popularity, urgency, or fear of missing out. |
Score the row
Use the result as a triage tool
The score orders your attention. It does not replace checking the external page or using official support for transaction questions.
Hard stops override the score. Remove or pause a row when the link opens a different item, the variation cannot be identified, fit-sensitive products have no usable measurements, images appear unrelated, the price refers to an unclear option, or the destination asks for private account or payment information without a justified reason.
Photo checks
Useful QC photos depend on the category
A photo set is helpful only when the images answer the right questions. More photos do not automatically mean a better quality check.
Shoes
Both side profiles, toe shape, heel alignment, sole, outsole, insole measurement, and size label.
Hoodies & clothing
Front, back, seams, cuffs, inside finish, fabric texture, label, and a tape measure across key dimensions.
Bags
Front, back, base, interior, hardware, closures, strap attachment, edge finish, and a view that shows scale.
Watches
Dial straight on, case sides, crown, clasp, caseback, dimensions, and any claim that affects function.
Accessories
Measurements, fastenings, hardware, edges, material texture, and close-ups where small flaws would matter.
Electronics
Model number, ports, plug, included parts, screen or status indicators, specifications, and condition.
From vague request to useful check
Ask for the exact photo or measurement
“Send more photos” is hard to compare. A useful request names the item, variation, angle, measurement method, or visible concern.
| What is unclear? | Useful request | Next check |
|---|---|---|
| Item identity | Show the color, size label, variation, and item code in the same set. | Match them with the saved row before judging the remaining photos. |
| Construction or finish | Show the seam, edge, closure, sole, hardware, or surface in even light. | Compare the same area across shortlisted candidates. |
| Fit or scale | Measure the named dimension with the tape visible from end to end. | Confirm the method and compare with an item you already own. |
| Footwear sizing | Show the insole measurement and size label for the exact pair. | Do not rely on the familiar size name alone. |
| Choice between candidates | Use identical views and measurements for each option. | Record the strongest evidence, missing proof, weight, and exit condition. |
Reusable note
Turn “send more photos” into a specific QC request
A useful request names the exact variation, the measurement method, the risky detail, and the viewing condition. This makes later photos easier to compare.
Two examples
Evidence beats adjectives
Good row example
“Small crossbody bag · 22 × 15 × 7 cm · front, back, base, interior, zipper and strap photos · material noted · item weight listed.”
Why it survives: category, scale, construction views, and weight can all be compared.
Weak row example
“Top quality popular bag · amazing price · best version.”
Why it fails: the row offers no dimensions, useful photos, material context, source clarity, or weight.
What to do next
Keep only the rows you can defend.
After scoring, compare the surviving rows inside one category. Read the shipping guide if weight is still unclear, and use the safety notes before following an unfamiliar external link.
