How to Vet a Chinese Supplier Before Placing Your First Order

Choosing the wrong supplier costs far more than a higher unit price from the right one. Before wiring any deposit, run this checklist.

1. Verify the business is real

Check the business license scope and years in operation. A “trading company” is not automatically bad — but you should know whether you are talking to the factory or an intermediary, because it changes who controls quality and lead time.

2. Test responsiveness the way a real order would

Send a detailed RFQ with drawings or reference photos and track two things: response time and question quality. A supplier who asks smart follow-up questions usually understands production. One who replies in 30 seconds with a suspiciously low price is often guessing.

3. Order samples — and compare them

Always order from at least two suppliers. Compare consistency between samples, packaging quality, and how honestly each supplier communicates about defects you point out.

4. Protect the deposit

Use clear payment terms (commonly 30/70 for first orders), define inspection standards in the PI, and consider a third-party inspection before shipment for orders above a few thousand dollars.

5. Start with a trial order

A pilot order of 20-50% of your target volume reveals more than any audit report. If the trial goes smoothly, scale up with confidence.