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How to Vet a Chinese Manufacturer: Our Process

SurfaceLab Team
October 5, 2024
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Finding reliable manufacturing partners in China requires systematic evaluation. Here's the process we've developed over years of sourcing building materials.

Initial Screening

Before visiting any factory, we conduct desktop research:

  1. **Business registration verification** through official Chinese databases
  2. **Export history** review via customs data
  3. **Online reputation** assessment across B2B platforms
  4. **Certification verification** directly with issuing bodies

Only about 20% of factories pass this initial screening.

Factory Visit Protocol

Our on-site evaluation covers:

### Production Capability - Equipment condition and maintenance records - Production capacity vs. current utilization - Raw material storage and handling - Quality control checkpoints

### Quality Systems - ISO certifications (legitimate, not purchased) - In-house testing equipment - Defect tracking and resolution processes - Sample retention and traceability

### Business Practices - Financial stability indicators - Worker conditions and safety - Environmental compliance - Communication responsiveness

Ongoing Monitoring

Qualification is just the beginning. We maintain quality through:

  1. **Pre-production sampling** for every order
  2. **In-line inspections** during manufacturing
  3. **Final inspection** before shipment
  4. **Annual re-qualification** audits

This rigorous process means our factory network represents approximately 5% of the suppliers we evaluate. The result: consistent quality and reliability for our clients.

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