Verify your supplier
Is your supplier a real manufacturer? Check these 7 things.
Use this list with any supplier, including us. A real factory can answer every point.
- 01
Real address with plant photos and signage
What to ask
Ask for the works address and recent photos of the plant with signage visible.
What a trader cannot show
A trader shows an office address and borrowed product photos.
- 02
Machine list with make and model
What to ask
Ask for the list of lines: colouring, extrusion, stranding, armouring, sheathing.
What a trader cannot show
A trader cannot name the machines or their capacity.
- 03
In-house testing lab and equipment
What to ask
Ask what OTDR and test equipment they run, and who operates it.
What a trader cannot show
A trader relies on the supplier's paperwork.
- 04
A test report with every drum
What to ask
Ask for a sample drum test report with OTDR attenuation and length.
What a trader cannot show
A trader sends a generic datasheet, not a drum report.
- 05
Certificates with verifiable numbers
What to ask
Ask for certificate numbers and the issuing body, then check them.
What a trader cannot show
A trader shows logos without numbers.
- 06
Named contacts you can call and meet
What to ask
Ask who runs production and quality, and whether you can speak to them.
What a trader cannot show
A trader offers only a sales contact.
- 07
Open invitation to visit the plant
What to ask
Ask to visit the works and watch your cable being made.
What a trader cannot show
A trader finds reasons to keep you away.