1. Write down what you need
Before comparing factories, give each one the same brief. Define the product, intended use, material, dimensions, acceptable variation, quantity, packaging and required delivery date. Attach a drawing or reference photo when it helps explain the specification.
Separate requirements you cannot change from preferences you can discuss. For example, a precise component size may be essential while the packaging colour is flexible. A low price is only comparable when it covers the same product and scope.
2. Connect the profile to a real company
Use the factory profile as a starting point. Ask for the full company name, business address, main product categories and the contact person's role. Clarify whether you are speaking with the manufacturer, a trading company or another sales partner, and which site would produce your order.
- Compare the name and address across the profile, business documents and quotation. Ask for an explanation if they differ.
- Check registration details with the relevant official business registry where available; a document image alone is not independent confirmation.
- Ask for relevant customer references or an independent site assessment when the order justifies further checks.
Product videos can help you discover suppliers and prepare questions. A video, profile or conversation does not by itself verify factory ownership, certification, capacity or order quality.
For background on checking potential overseas partners, see the U.S. International Trade Administration's due diligence resources.
3. Ask how your product would be made
Review videos for the product and process that matter to your order. Then ask specific follow-up questions instead of assuming that every machine or finished item shown belongs to the supplier.
- Which production steps happen at this site, and which are subcontracted?
- What materials and equipment would be used for this specification?
- What is the minimum order quantity, and does it change with customisation?
- What is the current lead time, and what must be confirmed before that clock starts?
- How are incoming materials, work in progress and finished products checked?
Ask the supplier to explain a relevant recent production example or provide a current demonstration of a process you need to understand. Record unanswered questions alongside the evidence you receive.
4. Agree on a sample and acceptance checks
Before requesting a sample, agree on its specification, cost, timing and what it represents. A stock sample may show finish or workmanship without proving that a customised item will meet your requirements.
Write down what you will examine: dimensions, material, finish, function and packaging, as relevant to the product. Photograph and record the results. If a sample is approved, identify that exact version in later discussions so both sides know which reference applies.
A good sample does not establish that an entire production run will be consistent. Discuss how the finished order will be checked and how differences from the agreed specification will be handled.
5. Compare the full quotation
Ask each shortlisted supplier to quote the same specification and quantity. Keep exclusions visible so you can compare the work being offered, not just the headline unit price.
Before committing, resolve differences between the quote, product details and conversation. Keep a dated record of the final specification and agreed terms. If an essential question remains unanswered, clarify it before moving forward.
6. Send a supplier enquiry they can answer
Replace the bracketed details in this message with your own requirements. Send the same core brief to each supplier so the answers are easier to compare.
Hello, I am evaluating suppliers for [product] for use in [market or application]. Our initial quantity is [quantity], with [material, dimensions and other essential specifications]. Our target delivery date is [date].
Please confirm your company name and production location, whether you manufacture this product, and any production steps handled by another company.
Could you share your minimum order quantity, sample options, current lead time, quality checks and a quotation showing what is included and excluded? Please also identify any requirement you cannot meet or need us to clarify.
Use the reply to choose a concrete next step: clarify missing details, compare a quotation, or arrange a sample. Keep an unresolved item visible instead of treating silence as agreement.
Start with discovery. Follow up with better questions.
Ftozon brings business videos, product and store search, company profiles and direct conversations into one app. Explore those features, then use this checklist to guide your own supplier evaluation.