1. Verify that the business exists
Start with the basics. Confirm the company is a legally registered entity and that the name, address and registration number match across official sources. This takes less than 15 minutes and filters out a large amount of risk.
Cross-check the details the supplier provides with government registries, tax authorities and export licensing databases where available. If anything does not match, stop and ask for clarification before discussing payment.
2. Check the product and capability
Ask for a representative sample and a written specification. Compare materials, dimensions, finish, packaging and compliance documentation against the quotation—not against assumptions made during a sales call.
3. Test communication under pressure
Introduce one precise change and observe how the supplier records it. Reliable partners confirm changes in writing, update the specification and explain the commercial impact clearly.
4. Protect the payment
Match bank-account details to the contracted entity and use payment terms that preserve leverage until inspection. Treat any last-minute account change as a reason to verify everything again through a known contact.