The 12-Point Supplier Audit
1ComplianceCan they provide EU REACH documentation?
Can they provide EU REACH documentation?
Request: REACH declaration, SDS sheets, SVHC declaration, MDF E1 certificate, CLP classification. All should be provided within 48 hours at no cost.
2ComplianceWhat is the MDF formaldehyde emission class?
What is the MDF formaldehyde emission class?
E1 (≤ 0.1 ppm CH₂O) is the EU standard. E0 is required for strict cremation environments. Verify with a certificate, not just a verbal claim.
3PricingWhat are the exact EXW and DDP prices?
What are the exact EXW and DDP prices?
Always compare apples-to-apples. EXW does not include shipping, insurance or import duties. DDP includes everything. Calculate your true landed cost before comparing suppliers.
4PricingWhat are the MOQ and volume discount tiers?
What are the MOQ and volume discount tiers?
Typical wholesale MOQs range from 5–25 units. Volume tiers at 30, 50, 100 units should have clear percentage discounts documented in writing.
5LogisticsIs DDP delivery available to your country?
Is DDP delivery available to your country?
DDP minimises your risk — the supplier handles customs clearance and import duties. Verify the supplier has active logistics partnerships in your country.
6LogisticsWhat is the confirmed production lead time?
What is the confirmed production lead time?
Standard production: 10–15 working days. Verify what 'in stock' means — is it truly ready to ship or queued for production? Ask for a written lead time commitment.
7QualityCan you receive physical samples before bulk order?
Can you receive physical samples before bulk order?
Always request at least one sample unit. Factor in sample cost and lead time. Inspect: finish quality, wood joints, interior lining, handle attachment, hinge quality.
8QualityAre product photos of actual stock (not renders)?
Are product photos of actual stock (not renders)?
Request photos of current batches under warehouse lighting, not marketing renders. Ask to see specific finish options on actual finished units.
9FinanceWhat are the payment terms?
What are the payment terms?
Standard first-order terms: 50% deposit + 50% before shipping. Established buyers may qualify for Net-30 or credit terms. Avoid suppliers requiring 100% upfront with no track record.
10FinanceDo they accept EUR or do they require FX conversion?
Do they accept EUR or do they require FX conversion?
EU manufacturers typically price in EUR. Non-EU suppliers may expose you to currency risk. Confirm invoice currency and whether FX rates are locked at order or at payment.
11ServiceWhat is the 24-hour WhatsApp/email responsiveness?
What is the 24-hour WhatsApp/email responsiveness?
Test before ordering: send a compliance document request and a pricing query. Measure response time. A reliable B2B supplier responds to wholesale enquiries within 4–8 business hours.
12ServiceDo they have verified EU references?
Do they have verified EU references?
Ask for 2–3 verifiable EU distributor references (with country and contact). A supplier with an active B2B footprint across 5+ EU countries is significantly lower risk.
What should I check before ordering coffins wholesale?
EU REACH compliance docs, MOQ and volume pricing, DDP delivery terms, production lead times, payment terms, and sample availability.
How do I verify a coffin supplier is REACH compliant?
Request SDS sheets, SVHC declaration, MDF E1 certificate, and signed REACH compliance declaration. Reliable suppliers provide these within 48 hours.
What is the difference between EXW and DDP?
EXW = you handle all shipping and customs. DDP = supplier delivers to your door with all costs included. DDP is strongly recommended for first-time EU importers.