Use these points to control the next decision.
- Verify the legal and commercial counterparty before relying on production claims.
- Match every certificate, test or material declaration to its scope and the proposed packaging.
- Record what the supplier performs, coordinates, subcontracts, inspects, and packs.
Identity and transaction controls
Confirm the contracting entity, quotation issuer, invoice beneficiary, payment account name, communication domain, and responsible project contact. Differences may have legitimate explanations, but they should be documented before payment.
Use independent channels when verifying a changed bank account or unusual payment instruction. A familiar email thread is not sufficient evidence that payment details remain valid.
- Legal entity matches commercial documents
- Bank beneficiary changes verified independently
- Business email and project contact recorded
- Quotation version and validity visible
- Incoterm and delivery point stated
Process ownership and subcontracting
Ask where structure design, printing, foil or embossing, lamination, rigid-box assembly, insert conversion, inspection, packing, and export coordination occur. Subcontracting is not automatically a problem; unmanaged handoffs and unclear accountability are.
For critical processes, request a current workflow explanation or relevant evidence tied to the proposed project. Avoid treating one facility image as proof for every listed capability.
| Area | Confirm | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Who develops and approves the dieline | Revision owner and approval file |
| Print/finish | Where critical surface work is performed | Color/finish reference and tolerance discussion |
| Assembly | Who controls fit and presentation | Approved sample and inspection points |
| Packing | Who sets carton and protection method | Packing specification and count |
Document relevance, not document volume
A document is useful only when its issuer, subject, scope, test method, result, issue date, validity, and connection to the proposed material can be understood. A certificate image with no scope should not be treated as project evidence.
Create an evidence register showing the claim, requested document, received file, relevant material or process, expiry or review date, and open questions. This makes gaps visible before production.
Sample, production and change control
Write down whether the sample is structural, digitally printed, production-method printed, hand-finished, or made using temporary materials. Record acceptable deviations and what will change in production.
Require written approval for artwork, color direction, finish position, materials, dimensions, insert fit, accessories, packing and labeling. Any post-approval change should identify its effect on price, schedule and previously approved attributes.