Question 1

How do I check a supplier's GSTIN online?

Accepted Answer

Visit the official GST portal at services.gst.gov.in and use the 'Search Taxpayer' tool. Enter the supplier's 15-digit GSTIN to see their legal name, registration status, business type, and the date of registration. This is free and publicly available. However, this only confirms registration. It does not tell you whether the supplier is actively filing returns, which is the more important check.

Question 2

Why do GST return filings matter more than just GST registration?

Accepted Answer

A supplier can hold a valid GSTIN but stop filing returns. This is a red flag for two reasons. First, if a supplier is not filing returns, the buyer may lose the ability to claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on purchases from that supplier. Second, non-filing often signals that the business is dormant, financially stressed, or operating irregularly. Always ask for recent GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B filing confirmations, or use a service like Sauda that checks this before presenting you with a quote.

Question 3

What other steps should I take to verify an Indian supplier beyond GST?

Accepted Answer

Request trade references from at least two or three of the supplier's existing buyers and actually call them. Ask for product samples before committing to a bulk order. Check the supplier's Udyam (MSME) registration if they claim to be an MSME. Look up their company on the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal to verify incorporation details and director information. If possible, visit the factory or arrange a video call walkthrough of their production facility.

Question 4

How does Sauda verify suppliers before sending me a quote?

Accepted Answer

Sauda checks each supplier's GST filings and returns to confirm the business is active and compliant. Beyond GST, Sauda contacts the supplier directly, confirms pricing, MOQs, and lead times through phone calls, and negotiates on your behalf. Only suppliers that pass verification are included in the quotes you receive. This process is completed within 24 hours.

Question 5

Is Sauda free for buyers? How does it make money?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Sauda is completely free for buyers. There are no fees, commissions, or hidden charges on the buyer side. Sauda earns from the supplier side. You simply send your sourcing requirement on WhatsApp at https://wa.me/9987549010 and receive verified, negotiated quotes within 24 hours at no cost.

Question 6

Can I use IndiaMART or TradeIndia to verify suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Platforms like IndiaMART, TradeIndia, and JustDial are useful for discovering suppliers and reviewing their listed profiles, product catalogs, and buyer ratings. Some offer trust badges or verification tiers. However, these platforms generally do not check whether a supplier is actively filing GST returns, and listings can sometimes be outdated. They are a good starting point for discovery, but you should still independently verify GST compliance, request references, and confirm pricing. Alternatively, Sauda handles all of this verification, outreach, and negotiation for you in one step.

How to Verify a Supplier in India Before You Order: GST Checks, References, and More

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