What will a Thai factory ask before agreeing to meet you?
Expect questions about your estimated order quantity, your product specifications or drawings, your target market and who you are. Factories use these answers to decide whether a visit is worth their time, so having them ready gets you more meetings and better answers.
Why do factories ask questions first?
A visit takes their staff time. Factories, especially larger ones focused on volume production, want to know whether your order fits their production before they commit. If you cannot answer basic questions, some will simply not reply.
What will they ask?
- Quantities: how many units per item, for the first order and per year
- Specifications: drawings, measurements, materials and finishes
- Samples: whether you need samples or prototypes first
- Market: which country the goods are going to, and any standards they must meet
- Timing: when you need samples and the first shipment
- Who you are: company name, website or a short company profile
Why do quantities matter so much?
Quantity decides whether a factory can work with you at all. A volume manufacturer may only accept a low MOQ if it can see larger orders later. Giving a range lets the factory tell you honestly whether you are a fit.
What should you prepare before your trip?
- A one-page summary of what you want to buy
- Drawings or a clear specification for each item
- A quantity range for each item
- Your target delivery date and destination
- A short company introduction
How can SiamPartner help?
SiamPartner turns your requirements into a clear brief in Thai and English before we contact any factory. We pass on the questions factories ask, so you know where you stand before you travel, and we tell you plainly when a factory is unlikely to fit your quantities.
Common questions
What if I do not know my quantities yet?
Give a realistic range for the first order and a yearly estimate. A range is far better than no number at all.
Why does a factory want my company profile?
To check that you are a genuine buyer. Larger manufacturers in particular may ask for it before arranging a meeting.
General information only, based on what we commonly see in our work. It is not legal, tax or customs advice, and every situation differs.DISCLAIMER →
Related reading
- How can you tell if a Thai supplier is a factory or a trading company? →
- How do you check a Thai company's registration? →
- Do you need an interpreter for factory visits in Thailand? →