Before paying a China supplier deposit, buyers should know what evidence has been checked, what remains assumed and which future milestones control the next payment.
Identity and relationship checks
A deposit should not move before the buyer understands who is receiving money and how that party relates to the factory or exporter.
- Business license and bank beneficiary alignment
- Factory or trading company role
- Export experience in the category
Product and sample checks
The supplier should not use vague sample approval to justify production if the specification is still moving.
- Approved specification revision
- Sample differences documented
- Packaging and labeling assumptions confirmed
Milestone language
Payment terms should name the evidence that unlocks the next step.
- Deposit after supplier identity check
- Balance after inspection or agreed exception
- Shipment after document review