Case 001: Supplier Gate Verification
CompletedSummary
Client found a supplier on Alibaba claiming a 5,000 square meter factory in Kunshan. I visited the address. The building existed but the company name on the sign was different from the Alibaba profile. The "factory" was actually a small trading office with no production equipment visible. Client decided not to visit China for this supplier. Saved: flight, hotel, and 3 days of time.
Case 002: Sample Receiving & Inspection
CompletedSummary
Client in Germany ordered a sample from a Guangzhou supplier. The sample was shipped to my Suzhou address. I unboxed it on camera with timestamps. The packaging was damaged. The product had scratches not visible in the supplier's photos. I measured the dimensions and found a 3mm deviation from the spec. Client decided not to proceed with bulk order. Saved: potential quality dispute and return costs.
Case 003: Exhibition Walkthrough
CompletedSummary
Client in the UK could not attend the Shanghai hardware exhibition. I visited 8 booths they had pre-selected. I took videos of product displays, collected catalogs and price sheets, and made notes on booth size and professionalism. One "supplier" turned out to be a reseller with no manufacturing capability. Another had a much smaller booth than their website suggested. Client narrowed their list from 8 to 3 serious candidates before booking a China trip.
Case 004: Phone Verification
CompletedSummary
Client in the US wanted to verify a supplier's phone number before placing a 5,000 USD sample order. I called the number. A person answered and confirmed the company name. However, when asked about their registered address, they gave a different city than what was on their website. The person also refused to answer basic questions about their business license. Red flags were documented. Client placed a smaller test order instead. Saved: potential 5,000 USD loss.