A reliable factory has a real production line you can verify, clear licenses, a track record with international clients, and answers questions about quality, lead time, and cost openly. An on-site check is the surest way to confirm all of this.
Signs of a Reliable Factory
A real factory, not a middleman: It owns a genuine production line that can be visited or verified, rather than being just a front for selling other factories' products.
Clear licenses and certificates: Official documents that match your product type (especially for cosmetics).
A track record with international clients: Prior export experience means the factory is better equipped to handle quality, packaging, and shipping requirements.
Transparent communication: It answers questions about cost, lead time, and specifications clearly and without evasion.
Questions to Ask Before You Sign
Are you the actual factory or a middleman?
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for this specific product?
Can you send a sample before I confirm the order?
What is the expected production time after order confirmation?
Do you allow a site visit or a third-party inspection?
Warning Signs (Red Flags)
Why an On-Site Visit or Direct Verification Matters
Photos and websites don't show the full picture. A real visit, or an on-site check by a trusted party based in China, reveals the true scale of the production line and how well the factory keeps to quality standards. For more examples, read about the most common mistakes when working with Chinese factories.
A Faster Way: A Directory of Verified Factories
If you would rather skip this step, browse our directory of verified factories — factories we have already checked on site.
Want to be sure about your factory?
We verify the factory on site on your behalf, before you commit to anything.