Secure Sourcing & Transaction Tips

Best practices for safe B2B transactions, avoiding scams, and managing risk when importing from China.

Indexfox is dedicated to connecting global buyers with authentic source factories. However, Indexfox is purely an information and discovery directory. We do not process payments, hold escrow funds, or manage logistics.

To ensure a secure and successful sourcing experience, please follow these industry best practices:

1. Always Request a Proforma Invoice (PI)

Before making any payment, ensure you have a formal Proforma Invoice (PI) or a legally binding contract stamped with the company’s official red chop (for Mainland companies). The document should clearly state the product specifications, MOQ, lead time, and trade terms (e.g., FOB, EXW, CIF).

2. Verify the Bank Account Details

Never send money to a personal bank account.

  • Legitimate B2B transactions should always be routed to a corporate bank account.
  • The beneficiary name on the bank account must match the company name listed on the PI and their official Business Registration.
  • Be cautious if a supplier asks you to send funds to a different company name or an offshore account not associated with their business structure.

3. Always Order Samples First

Never place a bulk order without first evaluating a physical prototype or pre-production sample. This ensures the factory’s quality standards align with your expectations and verifies their engineering capabilities.

4. Consider Third-Party Inspections

For high-value or large-volume orders, we highly recommend hiring a reputable third-party inspection agency (e.g., SGS, TÜV, or local QA services) to perform a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) before the final balance is paid.