01 How well do you know this supplier? Long-term supplier with many clean orders One or two prior orders, all fine First order, found them recently online
02 Have you confirmed the legal entity on the GSXT registry? Yes — name matches contract and bank account I looked but couldn't fully confirm the match No, I haven't checked the registry
03 Have you confirmed they are a real manufacturer? Independent audit or live unscripted video tour done Only pre-recorded video or photos provided No proof beyond their website and brochure
04 How have you handled the mill test certificate? Verified heat numbers with the named mill directly Received a certificate but not verified it No certificate, or only a flat PDF image
05 What payment structure is proposed? Letter of credit, escrow, or small deposit + inspection Standard T/T with a moderate deposit Large upfront deposit or full payment before production
06 Whose bank account are you being asked to pay? An account in China in the company's exact legal name Not sure — I haven't checked the account name A third-country or personal-name account
07 Have the banking details changed during the deal? No, they're locked in the signed contract Changed once, and I verified it by phone Changed by email and I haven't confirmed by phone
08 What independent inspection is planned before the balance is paid? Pre-shipment inspection and/or container-loading supervision Maybe — not booked yet None planned
09 Is there pressure or urgency around the deal? No, the supplier is relaxed about my checks Some time pressure on pricing Strong pressure to pay fast or lose the 'deal'
10 How does the price compare to the market? In line with current market rates Somewhat below market Far below market — too good to be true