Controlled shipping is a formal containment status an OEM places on a supplier after a quality concern. It requires the supplier to add a dedicated, documented inspection of parts before they ship, on top of normal process controls. There are two levels. Controlled Shipping Level 1 (CSL1) is run by the supplier. Controlled Shipping Level 2 (CSL2) adds an independent third party paid for by the supplier. Both are costly, and both are tracked closely by the OEM.
What Is Controlled Shipping Level 1 (CSL1)?
CSL1 requires the supplier to set up a redundant inspection, separate from the normal production process, to contain the specific defect the OEM identified. The supplier staffs and documents this inspection and reports results to the OEM. CSL1 stays in place until the supplier proves the containment is effective and the corrective action is working.
What Is Controlled Shipping Level 2 (CSL2)?
CSL2 is the more serious level. It keeps the CSL1 redundant inspection in place and adds a second, independent inspection performed by an OEM-approved third party, at the expense of the supplier. CSL2 is usually triggered when CSL1 did not resolve the concern, when repeat defects occur, or when the OEM has lost confidence in the containment.
CSL1 vs CSL2: The Key Differences
- Who inspects: CSL1 is supplier-run; CSL2 adds an independent third party
- Cost: CSL2 is significantly more expensive because of the third-party fees
- Severity: CSL2 signals a bigger loss of OEM confidence
- Exit: both require proven, sustained containment and corrective action to remove
How to Exit Controlled Shipping Faster
- 1Contain the defect completely and prove it with clean inspection data
- 2Complete a thorough root cause analysis and 8D corrective action
- 3Maintain a documented, repeatable inspection with clear records
- 4Communicate results to the OEM consistently and professionally
- 5Request exit only when the data supports it, to avoid a failed exit and a reset
How an On-Site Liaison Helps
Controlled shipping is won or lost on presence and documentation. An on-site quality liaison manages the daily inspection, keeps the records the OEM wants to see, communicates progress to plant quality, and builds the case for exit. For suppliers located far from the plant, this on-site presence is often the difference between a fast exit and months stuck in CSL2.
Key takeaway: CSL1 is a supplier-run redundant inspection. CSL2 adds an independent third party at supplier cost. The fastest way out of both is airtight containment, strong documentation, and consistent on-site communication with the OEM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for CSL2 controlled shipping?
The supplier pays for CSL2, including the independent third-party inspection fees. This is one reason CSL2 is so costly, and why fast, well-documented containment matters.
How long does controlled shipping last?
It lasts until the supplier proves sustained containment and effective corrective action. With strong on-site management it can be weeks. Without it, suppliers can stay in controlled shipping for months.