One of the biggest risks in importing is paying a scammer or getting substandard goods. The good news: most fraud and quality disasters are preventable with basic due diligence. Here are 10 checks every buyer should run.
1. Verify the Business License
Ask for the official business license and verify it. Genuine factories can provide one; many “suppliers” are trading companies or resellers.
2. Check Factory Registration
Confirm the factory is registered under the company name and address provided. Inconsistencies are a red flag.
3. Request Real Factory Photos & Video
Ask for live video of the production line — not stock photos. A real factory can show you its floor at any time.
4. Validate Export Capability
Ask about export licenses and past export documentation. A genuine manufacturer will have an export history.
5. Order a Sample — Always
Test the actual product, not photos. Sample quality is your best predictor of production quality.
6. Run a Third-Party Background Check
Use verification services or a sourcing agent to confirm the company’s track record and any past disputes.
7. Watch Payment Terms
Legitimate suppliers accept staged payments (e.g., 30% deposit / 70% before shipment). Never pay 100% upfront to an unverified vendor.
8. Check Response & Communication Quality
Scammers often use copy-paste replies. A real factory gives specific, technical answers about your product.
9. Verify the Address Actually Matches
Cross-check the address against the business license and platform records.
10. Use a Pre-Shipment Inspection (QC)
Before shipment, have goods inspected for quality, quantity, and packaging — especially for your first few orders.
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