How to check an overseas supplier before the first order

Identify the contracting party first

Match the legal name, registration number, address, bank beneficiary and person negotiating. Email domains, pro forma invoice and contract should point to the same legal entity or to an explained group structure.

Check the product and execution separately

A real factory may still lack the process, material or quality control required. Ask for a technical response to the specification, traceable documents, a sample or pilot, and—where justified—an independent inspection against agreed criteria.

Finish with a controlled transaction

Record the specification, approved sample version, quantity, Incoterms rule and named place, schedule, documents, acceptance method, payment and non-conformity process. No individual check guarantees performance; each one addresses a defined risk.

Source: Primary guidance