How to Verify a Supplier’s Legitimacy on the Spot

At the Canton Fair, everyone claims to be "the biggest factory in China."

Here is how to spot the fakes (Trading Companies) from the real deal (Direct Manufacturers) in 5 minutes.

1. The "Business Card Audit"

Check their address.

• Factory: Often in industrial zones (e.g., "Minying Industrial Park", "Xintang Town").
• Trading Company: Often in downtown skyscrapers (e.g., "Rm 1204, Tianhe Finance Center"). Factories are noisy and dirty; they aren't in finance centers.

2. The "Product Mix Test"

Look at their shelves.

• Factory: Focuses on ONE material or process. (e.g., Only injection molded plastic).
• Trading Company: Has everything. A "kitchenware" company selling ceramic knives, plastic mats, AND stainless steel forks is likely a trader. These require 3 different factories.

3. The "Technical Question"

Ask: "What machine do you use to make this edge?" or "What is your daily output capacity for this specific mold?"

• Factory: Sales rep (or the boss next to them) knows immediately.
• Trading Company: "I need to check with my engineer."

4. Ask for the Business License (On your phone)

Ask them to WeChat you their business license (Yezz).

• Scan the QR code or use an app like Tianyancha.
• Look for "Scope of Business" (经营范围). It should say "Manufacturing" (生产/制造). If it only says "Sales" (销售) or "Import/Export" (进出口), they are a trader.

Why does it matter?

Traders aren't evil. They offer service and low MOQs. But you shouldn't pay a Factory price for a Trader service. Know who you are dealing with.