Q1. Explain the three modes of purchase: inspection, sample/pattern, and description. Give simple examples for each.
Answer:
In purchase by inspection, the buyer sees and checks the goods before buying. Example: Choosing fruits at a retail shop.
In purchase by sample/pattern, the buyer checks a small specimen that represents the bulk. Example: A dealer orders rice based on a small sample.
A pattern is used for standard goods like cloth, where shade and texture matter.
In purchase by description, the buyer orders based on catalogues, price lists, or brand names.
Example: Ordering a Godrej cupboard or a Surf detergent by name.
All three aim to match the buyer’s expectations with the quality supplied.
Q2. What are the main features of purchase by inspection? How does it help retail buyers?
Answer:
The buyer directly sees, touches, and checks the goods.
It is common in retail buying, like clothes, vegetables, or small tools.
The buyer can compare quality, size, color, and price on the spot.
It reduces the risk of mismatch because the selection is made after inspection.
It is useful when goods are readily available and the buyer is near the seller.
It saves time for small purchases and builds trust between buyer and seller.
Q3. Describe how purchase by sample/pattern works. Why is the code number on a pattern important?
Answer:
A sample or pattern is a small piece that represents the bulk goods.
Both parties agree that the bulk will be the same quality as the sample/pattern shown.
Patterns show shade, texture, and sometimes quality grade.
A code number on the pattern makes ordering clear and exact.
The buyer can simply quote the code to avoid confusion.
This helps when goods are standard and must be uniform across a big order.
Q4. What is purchase by description? How do catalogues and brand names support this method?
Answer:
In purchase by description, the buyer relies on written details instead of seeing a sample.
Sellers use catalogues and price lists to describe features and quality.
Many goods have standard names or brands like detergents or oils.
The buyer may only mention the brand name or model to place the order.
This method helps when samples cannot be carried, like furniture.
It saves time and is useful for large distances and repeat orders.
Q5. When should a buyer choose inspection, sample/pattern, or description? Explain with conditions.
Answer:
Choose inspection when goods are nearby and individual quality matters.
Choose sample/pattern when buying in bulk and you need uniform quality.
Choose description when goods are standardized or branded, or distance is large.
Use inspection for perishable or unique items.
Use sample/pattern for textiles, mattresses, or raw materials.
Use description for furniture, appliances, or branded daily-use items.
High Complexity (Analysis & Scenario-Based)
Q6. A cloth merchant orders 500 meters by pattern. The bulk delivered has a different shade from the pattern. What should the merchant do? Analyze the steps.
Answer:
First, compare the bulk with the original pattern and note the difference in shade.
Check the order and code number quoted to confirm what was agreed.
Inform the seller in writing with photos and evidence of mismatch.
Ask for replacement matching the pattern or a price reduction.
If urgent, accept a part that matches and return the rest.
Keep records of the pattern, codes, and communication to avoid future disputes.
Q7. A furniture maker sells by description using a catalogue. How should the description be written to avoid confusion and complaints?
Answer:
Use clear, simple, and complete descriptions for each item.
Mention materials, dimensions, color/finish, and weight capacity.
Add model numbers, images, and price details.
State delivery time, assembly needs, and warranty terms.
Avoid vague words like “best” or “premium” without facts.
Keep a copy of the catalogue so both parties share the same
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Q8. Compare the risks in buying by inspection versus buying by description. Suggest safeguards for each method.
Answer:
Inspection has low risk of mismatch, but it is hard for distant or bulk purchases.
Description has risk of expectation gap, as the buyer cannot see the product.
For inspection, note defects before buying and keep a purchase note.
For description, use detailed catalogues, brand names, and model numbers.
For both, keep written orders, invoices, and any promises made.
If possible, ask for a return/replacement policy in case of mismatch.
Q9. A small retailer must buy three items: fresh fruits, school uniforms cloth, and branded toothpaste. Which mode should be used for each? Justify.
Answer:
Fresh fruits: Use inspection. Quality varies daily. The retailer must check freshness and size.
School uniforms cloth: Use sample/pattern. Shade and texture must match across sizes.
Branded toothpaste: Use description/brand name. Standard product. Just order by brand and size.
This mix saves time and keeps quality steady.
It reduces returns and makes customers happy.
It also fits how each item is commonly bought in the market.
Q10. You ordered a branded product by description, but a different variant arrives. How will you handle it to protect your interest?
Answer:
Check the order and invoice to confirm the exact brand and model requested.
Take photos and record a short note of the differences.
Contact the seller quickly and request replacement as per description.
If needed, ask for a refund or price adjustment.
Keep copies of the catalogue, brand details, and messages.
In future, always quote the exact name, model number, and quantity in the order.
Q11. A wholesaler buys rice by sample. Later, the bulk has more broken grains than the sample. Analyze what went wrong and how to prevent it next time.
Answer:
The sample did not match the bulk, or the agreed quality terms were unclear.
The order may have missed key details like grade, moisture, or broken percentage.
Next time, write these details clearly along with the sample
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Seal and sign the approved sample and keep a copy with both parties.
Inspect the first delivery lot before accepting the full load.
Use a code or batch number to link the bulk to the agreed sample.
Q12. A buyer is far from the seller and cannot inspect goods. They must choose between sample/pattern and description. Which should they pick and why?
Answer:
Choose sample/pattern when the goods are not fully standard and quality needs checking.
It works well for textiles, mattresses, and raw materials.
Choose description when goods are standardized and branded.
It suits items like detergents, oils, and appliances with fixed models.
For either method, use written orders, codes, and clear specs.
This reduces mistakes and keeps the deal fair and smooth.
