Start with the legal business identity
Ask for the supplier’s full registered company name and relevant registration details. Compare the information across documents, quotations, contracts and payment instructions. Differences should be clarified before proceeding.
Confirm what the supplier actually does
Ask whether the company manufactures the product itself, subcontracts production or trades goods made by other factories. Each model can be legitimate, but it affects oversight, lead times, traceability and communication.
Check evidence against your requirements
Review relevant product experience, equipment, capacity, quality procedures and certifications. Verify that any certificate applies to the correct legal entity, product scope and validity period. Do not treat a logo or a document image as verification by itself.
Validate communication and payment details
Use established business contact channels and confirm changes to bank details through a separate, trusted channel. Be cautious with urgent requests, unexplained third-party accounts or pressure to bypass normal documentation.
Document the decision and next steps
Keep a verification record showing what was checked, what remains uncertain and who approved the supplier. For higher-value or higher-risk orders, consider an independent check before making commitments.
Final Thoughts
A reliable sourcing process is built on preparation, proportionate checks, clear records and realistic expectations. The right approach depends on the product and the level of risk; no single online check can guarantee a successful order.