China's machine tool output accounts for roughly 35% of world production, and mechanical and electrical products made up about 59% of the country's exports in 2024. The pipeline of Chinese machinery is deep and export-driven, which means more options - but also more room for error without careful vetting.
Verify the seller first. Check the business license, import/export qualification, credit history through services such as Qichacha or Tianyancha, years in business and export references. Confirm the real factory address with site photos, and beware cloned brand sites and look-alike companies that imitate well-known builders.
Lock down the specification in writing: spindle power and speed, axis travel and accuracy classes per ISO 230, controller brand (Fanuc, Siemens, Mitsubishi or GSK), electrical standard for your market (CE for the EU, UL for the US), and painting and documentation requirements. Vague specs are the most common source of disputes.
Use third-party control. An independent pre-shipment inspection and testing by SGS, Bureau Veritas, TUV or QIMA, plus an ISO 9001 audit of the factory, protects against surprises. Ask for test data such as laser interferometer and ballbar reports, and request a run-in report in the shipping documents.
Contract essentials: Incoterms 2020, payment milestones, delivery date with a penalty clause, a 12-24 month warranty, a spare parts list with prices, and installation and training supervision terms. Red flags include quotes 30% or more below market, refusal of factory inspection, generic certificates and demands for 100% advance payment - walk away or require a letter of credit.