Factory audit: what to check before you order
A practical checklist for vetting a Chinese factory — from the business licence to the production line — before money changes hands.
Why audit at all
An audit confirms that a supplier is who they claim to be, can actually make your product to standard, and is financially and operationally stable enough to deliver. It is the step that turns a promising quote into a safe order.
Audits range from a documentary check and a video walk-through to a full on-site inspection by someone on the ground in China.
Company and legitimacy
Start with the business licence and confirm the registered scope of business covers what you are buying. Check how long the company has traded and whether the address is a real manufacturing site rather than an office.
For manufacturers, look for evidence they own the production line — not that they subcontract everything out.
Capability and capacity
Confirm the factory has the machinery and skilled staff for your product, and the capacity to meet your quantity and lead time without cutting corners.
Ask about their main markets and existing clients. A factory already exporting to the UK or EU is more likely to understand your requirements.
Quality systems and compliance
Look for a documented quality process and, where relevant, management-system certification such as ISO 9001. Confirm they can supply the product test reports and certifications your market needs.
Ask how they handle defects and returns — a mature factory has a clear answer.
The on-the-ground advantage
Documents can be faked; a physical visit is much harder to fake. Someone walking the floor, meeting the owner and seeing your product in production removes most of the remaining risk.
This is exactly where a partner with local presence in China adds value you cannot get from a screen.
Frequently asked questions
Can an audit be done remotely?
Partly. Document checks and a live video tour catch a lot, but for a significant order an on-site visit is the gold standard.