1. Order documents
Obtain the purchase order, specification, approved artwork and sample records.
2. Contacts and authority
Confirm supplier identity, authorized contacts and permission to coordinate.
3. Payments
Reconcile deposits, balances, invoices and agreed milestones.
4. Production status
Establish the current stage with dated evidence.
5. Open decisions
List changes, delays, quality issues and unresolved decisions.
6. Tooling and subcontracting
Confirm ownership, access and subcontracting arrangements.
7. Inspection and release
Agree inspection scope, release authority and the escalation contact.
8. Shipment
Review packing, shipping terms, destination, documents and booking status.
9. Coordination scope
Set reporting frequency, service fees and the exact handover scope.
Before you move forward
Do not assume an existing price, delivery promise or sample approval remains valid after a change. Confirm the position in writing with buyer and supplier.
Use this checklist to prepare a conversation. The actual work, tests and responsibilities are agreed for each project.