How-to

How to verify an Indian supplier before you wire a deposit

Most sourcing disasters are decided before the first payment — at the moment you choose who to trust. Here is the verification process we run on every factory before a client commits a deposit.

1. Confirm they are a real manufacturer, not a middleman

Many “factories” online are trading companies re-badging someone else's goods. Ask for their GST registration and Import-Export Code (IEC), then confirm the entity name matches the bank account you're asked to pay. A manufacturer who cannot show these instantly is a red flag.

2. Validate real production capacity

A factory that quotes your whole order but runs three machines will subcontract it — and you lose control of quality. Confirm machine count, monthly capacity, and current order book. A live-video or on-ground walkthrough of the actual floor (not a brochure) settles it in minutes.

3. Check the certifications that matter for your market

• ISO 9001 for quality systems
• OEKO-TEX / GOTS for textiles
• CE / UKCA / CPSC as relevant to your destination
• Social-compliance (SEDEX/BSCI) if your brand requires it

4. Get references from existing export buyers

A legitimate exporter can name overseas buyers and show export documentation from past shipments. Speak to at least one buyer in your region. If every reference is domestic-only, treat export claims with caution.

5. Watch for the classic red flags

• A price far below every other quote (someone is cutting a corner you'll pay for later)
• Reluctance to allow a factory visit or video audit
• Payment demanded to a personal or third-party account
• Vague answers on lead time, MOQ or material specs

Verification is not paperwork for its own sake — it is the cheapest insurance you will ever buy. We run this full process, plus an on-ground audit, before a single client rupee moves, and we put our name on the result with a defect guarantee.

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