Buying from overseas suppliers can lower costs and open new product choices. It can also go wrong if you rush. This checklist helps beginners reduce risk before the first order.
1. Verify the supplier
Check the business name, address, website and contact details. Ask for company registration or a business licence, and look for real customer feedback outside the supplier’s own website.
2. Ask for samples
Never judge by photos alone. Order a sample, check quality, size, packing and labelling, and compare it with what was promised.
3. Agree everything in writing
- Product specifications and quantity.
- Price and currency.
- Production time and delivery date.
- Packaging and labels.
- What happens if goods are damaged or different from the sample.
4. Understand the shipping terms
Terms such as FOB and CIF decide who pays for which part of the journey. Know them before you agree, and ask for a full cost estimate including freight, insurance and local charges.
5. Check import rules and duties
Each country has its own import rules, taxes and restricted items. Check them with customs or a clearing agent before you order.
6. Use safe payment methods
Avoid paying the full amount upfront to a new supplier. A common approach is a part payment before production and the rest after inspection, using a traceable method.
7. Inspect before shipping
For larger orders, arrange a quality check before the goods leave the factory.
Our sister company Rawaani Global (Private) Limited works in import, export and sourcing. Their guide on how to check a supplier and avoid trade scams goes deeper into the steps above. You can learn more at rawaaniglobal.com, or see the full Rawaani group.