How to buy industrial machinery from China without losing the brief.

1. Define the duty

Write down the material, capacity, feed and output requirements before collecting quotations. Add site utilities, destination and target date. If an item is unknown, label it as unknown rather than letting each supplier assume a different basis.

2. Compare like with like

Check included equipment, auxiliaries, controls, wear parts, installation support, packaging, documents and exclusions. A lower headline price may omit items required for a working line.

3. Review the supplier conversation

Ask for company identity, relevant production evidence, drawings or process notes, lead-time basis and after-sales scope. Keep supplier claims separate from documents you have independently verified.

4. Put payment and inspection in writing

For a new relationship, use a payment structure and bank instrument appropriate to the buyer, project and risk. Agree inspection points and measurable acceptance criteria before production begins. Do not treat a pro forma invoice or a catalogue as proof of capability.

5. Plan export handover

Confirm Incoterms, packing, shipping marks, documents, port details, insurance responsibilities and who resolves discrepancies. Country-specific customs and import requirements should be checked with the buyer’s broker and relevant authorities.