Company Background & Legitimacy
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| Business License |
Verify legal registration name, address, and validity period |
Check against SAMR database (国家企业信用信息公示系gsxt.gov.cn) |
| Export License |
Needed for direct exports |
If missing, they might use a trading company |
| Ownership Type |
Manufacturer, trading company, or hybrid |
Ask for their factory vs. office locations |
| Years in Operation |
Prefer ≥5 years for stability |
Confirm via registration date |
| Clients & Markets |
Reference clients (especially foreign ones) |
Check for NDAs but ask for samples of export packaging |
Facilities & Equipment
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| Factory Layout |
Clean, well-organized, with proper material flow |
Avoid “chaotic” shops mixing materials |
| Injection Machines |
Brand, tonnage range, quantity, machine age |
Check if they use Haitian, Yizumi, ENGEL, etc. |
| Mold Workshop |
In-house mold making or outsourced |
In-house = faster DFM and maintenance |
| Automation |
Presence of robotic arms, conveyors, drying systems |
Indicates modern production capability |
| QC Equipment |
Calipers, CMM, projector, tensile tester, etc. |
For dimensional accuracy checks |
| Power Backup |
Generator or UPS |
Useful for large batch continuity |
Process Capability
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| Mold Design & DFM |
Capability to provide DFM reports and flow analysis |
Ask for sample report |
| Material Handling |
Separate storage for virgin vs. recycled material |
Inspect labeling and drying stations |
| Process Control |
Documented setup sheets, parameter recording |
Look for consistency across shifts |
| Assembly & Secondary Ops |
Painting, ultrasonic welding, printing, etc. |
Good for integrated supply |
| Production Records |
Traceability of lots, parameters, rejects |
Review sample production log |
Quality Management
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| ISO Certification |
ISO 9001, IATF16949 (auto), ISO14001 |
Ask for current certificate |
| Incoming Inspection |
Raw material check & supplier records |
Request inspection template |
| In-Process QC |
Sampling frequency, SPC charts |
Ask how they control shrinkage, flash, etc. |
| Final Inspection |
Visual + dimensional inspection before shipment |
Look for outgoing QC reports |
| Staff Training |
QC and machine operator training frequency |
Ask for records or certificates |
Supply Chain & Materials
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| Raw Material Brands |
e.g. SABIC, BASF, LG Chem |
Ensure authenticity |
| Material Storage |
Temperature/humidity control |
Prevent moisture contamination |
| Regrind Policy |
% of regrind allowed in production |
Some industries forbid regrind use |
| Subcontracting |
Any processes outsourced (molding, plating, etc.) |
Verify subcontractor quality controls |
Environmental & Social Compliance
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| Waste Management |
Plastic scrap recycling, wastewater handling |
Check local compliance |
| Noise & Safety |
PPE usage, ventilation, signage |
Inspect safety protocols |
| Labor Conditions |
Working hours, dormitories, contracts |
Ensure compliance with local law |
| Fire Safety |
Extinguishers, exits, drills, electrical safety |
Physically verify on site |
Engineering & Communication
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| English Capability |
For project engineers and account managers |
Crucial for overseas projects |
| CAD/CAM Software |
Moldflow, UG, SolidWorks, AutoCAD |
A sign of engineering maturity |
| Sampling & Modifications |
Sample lead time and feedback speed |
Track record of iteration response |
| Documentation |
2D drawings, BOM, mold maintenance logs |
Should be traceable and professional |
Commercial & Project Management
| Checkpoint |
Details |
Notes |
| Quotation Transparency |
Clear cost breakdown (mold + part) |
Avoid hidden tooling costs |
| Lead Time |
Mold build & mass production time |
Benchmark vs. industry average |
| Packaging |
Anti-static, moisture barrier, labeling |
For export safety |
| Shipping Experience |
Familiarity with export process, Incoterms |
Check for FOB/CIF experience |
| After-Sales Service |
Mold repair, spare parts, engineering support |
Good sign of reliability |
Bonus: Red Flags to Watch For
-
Factory refuses video call or on-site audit.
-
Mold department appears inactive or dusty (outsourcing risk).
-
No English-speaking engineer.
-
Certificates look suspicious (wrong font, watermark, or expired).
-
Regrind material mixed without labeling.
Excel audit checklist ready for use: CN_EN Version
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