Before a first order, a buyer can check a supplier's records, test a sample and agree terms in writing. This checklist covers what to check and where, using public registries and the official import guides.
At a glance
- Start with records you can look up yourself: company registration, GST registration and the Importer-Exporter Code.
- The IEC is a business identification number issued by India's DGFT, and it is mandatory for export from India.
- Match any GI claim against the register, using the application number.
- Order a sample before you commit to a bulk order.
- Agree shipping terms, documents and payment terms in writing.
What should you check before a first order?
Check the supplier's records, check any craft claim against its registry, order a sample, then agree the shipping terms, documents and payment terms in writing. The eight steps below follow that order.
- Check the business record. Registration records for Indian companies and LLPs are held by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The GST portal runs a public taxpayer search. Ask for the registered name so you can match it.
- Check the export registration. The Importer-Exporter Code is a key business identification number issued by the DGFT, and it is mandatory for export from India. Ask the supplier for its IEC.
- Check any GI claim against the register. A registered name with an application number can be looked up. Our GI guide shows how.
- Order a sample first. A sample shows you finish, size and packing in hand. See what a paid sample tells you.
- Check that the minimum order fits. Ask how the minimum is counted and whether it can be mixed across products. Our mixed-collection guide shows one example.
- Agree the shipping terms in writing. Put the supplier contract in writing with an Incoterms rule, and name the port or place precisely. See FOB vs DDP.
- Agree payment terms separately. Incoterms do not deal with the time, place, method or currency of payment, so settle those in the contract.
- Confirm the goods can reach your country. The UK government advises confirming that the exporting business can legally ship to the UK, and the EU guide tells importers to check product, packaging and labelling requirements. Our import guide lists the documents.
What can WHIMS show you?
WHIMS is a brand of Manisha Global Exim LLP. On request we can share the LLP's Importer-Exporter Code, GST registration and LLP registration so you can check them yourself. The registry numbers behind each WHIMS craft are in our GI guide.
Common questions
What records can I check on an Indian supplier?
You can look up the business's registration with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, its GST registration on the GST portal, and its Importer-Exporter Code with the DGFT. If the supplier claims a GI, you can match the registration number against the IP India register.
Is a sample enough to judge a supplier?
A sample shows you the quality of the pieces you receive. It does not replace checking records, agreeing terms in writing and, for a bulk order, adding checks of your own before shipping.
Where can I find suppliers in the first place?
The European Commission's import guide suggests trade fairs, chambers of commerce and the Enterprise Europe Network as places to identify business partners abroad.
What can WHIMS show on request?
WHIMS is a brand of Manisha Global Exim LLP. On request we can share the LLP's Importer-Exporter Code, GST registration and LLP registration so you can check them yourself.
Sources
Checked on 7 October 2026. Registry look-up tools and requirements change, so use the official sites for the current steps. WHIMS details are those stated on this website.
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