How to Vet a Chinese Manufacturer: Our Process
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:
- **Business registration verification** through official Chinese databases
- **Export history** review via customs data
- **Online reputation** assessment across B2B platforms
- **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:
- **Pre-production sampling** for every order
- **In-line inspections** during manufacturing
- **Final inspection** before shipment
- **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.