The four-point system is a method for grading woven and knitted fabric, set out as an option in ASTM D5430. The inspector runs each roll over a lit frame and gives every visible fault 1 to 4 penalty points by its length. The total is converted to points per 100 square yards and compared with the limit in the contract.
Last reviewed 14 Oct 2026 · Written by Alka Rajpurohit
Definition in short
This is the glossary definition. The full method, with the point table, the formula, a worked example on two rolls and what to write into the contract, is in the four-point fabric inspection system guide.
In the four-point system, each fault on a fabric roll scores 1, 2, 3 or 4 penalty points, depending on its length, and no linear yard can score more than 4. The points for a roll are converted to points per 100 square yards, so rolls of different length and width can be compared against one limit. The method is one of the grading options in ASTM D5430, which describes how to grade fabric but sets no pass mark.
Where the term is used
Buyers name the four-point system in fabric contracts for woven and knitted cloth, from greige to finished and printed fabric. The limit, often 40 points per 100 square yards, and whether it applies to each roll or to the shipment average are commercial terms that the contract sets. Clear To Load inspectors score sampled rolls on a lit inspection frame at the mill and report the result against your limit. See greige fabric and finished and printed fabric inspection.
What does a score of 40 points per 100 square yards mean?
It means the faults found add up to 40 penalty points for every 100 square yards of fabric inspected. Forty is a common contract limit, but ASTM D5430 does not set it; the buyer and the mill agree it.
Does the four-point system replace AQL sampling?
For fabric rolls, it usually takes its place. AQL counts defective units; the four-point system scores faults per area, which suits a continuous material. AQL still applies to the finished garments or textiles made from the fabric.
Is the limit the same for every fabric?
It does not have to be. Buyers often set a tighter limit for finished fabric than for greige, and some set separate limits for individual rolls and the shipment as a whole. Write the numbers into the contract.
Know before it ships
Tell us the product, the factory's city and your ready date. We confirm the inspector, the notice time and the price before you book.