Buyer guide · Verification
How to Verify an Indian Steel Supplier
Step-by-step verification for international buyers — before LC release or wire transfer.
Why verification matters for steel
Steel trade involves high value per shipment. Fraud patterns: fake MTC, ghost warehouses, advance collection without stock. Independent verification costs a fraction of one lost container.
6-step verification checklist
- Confirm legal entity — GST, IEC, address matches visit location
- Physical premises visit — not video call controlled by seller
- Stock inspection — grade, quantity, condition vs your order
- MTC cross-check — heat numbers match visible bundles
- Live photo/video on WhatsApp — timestamped, same day
- Independent risk verdict — proceed, renegotiate, or walk away
Verified alternative
Start with a pre-verified listing: Bhairav Steel on Verified Steel Suppliers India.
FAQ
How to verify an Indian steel supplier before payment?
Share the supplier with Supply Network. We visit premises independently, confirm stock and documentation, send live photos/video on WhatsApp, and deliver a risk summary before you wire advance.
What red flags indicate a fake steel exporter?
Refusal of third-party visit, MTC that doesn't match heat numbers, price far below market, only virtual office address, pressure for urgent advance.
Does a GST number prove a steel supplier is genuine?
GST confirms registration — not current stock, export capability or honesty. Physical verification remains essential.
How much does steel supplier verification cost?
From ₹500 per on-ground visit on Supply Network. Scope confirmed before dispatch — small vs cost of one failed container.