Quick answer
Check a supplier by confirming business name, CAC record where relevant, bank account name, office or pickup address, product evidence, customer reviews, invoice details and refund terms before paying.
This guide is written for Nigerians who need a practical next step. It gives the direct answer first, then shows what to verify, what to prepare, what mistakes to avoid and which related Explainer.NG pages can help.
What to verify
Compare the supplier's claimed business name with invoice, bank account name, website and public records. A mismatch does not always mean fraud, but it needs explanation.
For large orders, request sample, video call, references or staged payment.
- Business name
- Bank account name
- CAC record
- Office address
- Product photos or sample
- Customer references
- Refund policy
Payment risk control
Avoid paying full amount to an unverified supplier. Use milestones, escrow where available, pickup payment or smaller test orders.
Keep invoice, chat history, delivery terms and payment receipt.
Red flags
Pressure to pay urgently, refusal to show product, personal accounts for corporate orders and copied product photos are warning signs.
If the supplier cannot explain delivery timeline or refund terms, pause.
Checklist
- Compare business names
- Check account name
- Ask for invoice
- Confirm delivery terms
- Start with small order
- Keep evidence
People also ask
Does CAC search prove supplier is safe?
No. It is only one verification step.
Should I pay full upfront?
Avoid full upfront payment for unverified suppliers.
What if account name differs?
Ask for explanation before paying.
Can reviews be fake?
Yes, look for patterns and independent evidence.
What if supplier delays delivery?
Use your written terms and payment evidence.