A sample that looks right does not prove that the production lot will stay consistent.
First, freeze a measurable baseline.
Put the drawing revision, material, colour, critical dimensions, functions, packaging and labels into one specification pack.
Avoid vague language such as same as sample.
Second, give the sample an identity.
Record its number, production date, tooling or line, inspection results and photographs.
After approval, the buyer and supplier should each retain the same approved version.
Third, approval is not the end.
A change in material, structure, process, source, packaging or labelling needs a documented review.
If safety, regulation or a critical function may change, submit a new sample and repeat the relevant testing and approval.
Fourth, separate sample approval from lot inspection.
The approved sample shows what one agreed reference looks like.
It does not prove that every production unit conforms, and it does not replace market-specific testing, risk analysis, technical documentation or certification.
Before shipment, give the inspector the approved sample, specification pack and defect classification.
Acceptance sampling evaluates the lot; the approved sample supplies the comparison baseline.
Good sample approval is not one word: approved.
It is an evidence chain with controlled revisions, measurable criteria, retained references, traceable changes and a separate production inspection.