Whether you’re procuring GPUs, air start units, pushbacks, tow tractors or PIT systems, choosing the supplier is as important as choosing the product. This guide compiles a pragmatic verification checklist you can apply during RFQ, technical evaluation, and contract negotiation. Use it to reduce delivery risk, improve support quality, and defend your decision internally.

1) Company profile & credibility

• Years in production, headcount, in-house capabilities (design, software, assembly, testing).
• Installed base by region and segment (airlines, MROs, defense, business aviation).
• Financial stability: audited accounts, credit ratings if available.
• References: 3–5 recent projects similar to your scope, ideally with contactable references.

2) Certifications & standards

3) Engineering & test regime

• Type tests: electrical quality (400 Hz stability, THD), DC ripple, overload behavior.
• Environmental: thermal tests, ingress protection, salt fog for coastal sites, vibration for mobile units.
• Factory Acceptance Test (FAT): witness protocol, record retention, serial-number traceability.
• Customization: connectors, cable lengths, hose reels, dual-output, telemetry options.

4) Service model & SLAs

Ask who will actually support the equipment after handover: the OEM, a local partner, or your own technicians trained by them?

• Response & resolution times by severity (SLA matrix).
• Spare parts: stock location, lead times, critical spares list with minimums.
• Remote support: telemetry/diagnostics, call availability, languages.
• Training: initial + refresher, documentation, e-learning access.
• Warranty: duration, what’s excluded, battery/engine special clauses.

5) Commercial terms that save you later

• Incoterms & risk transfer: EXW vs DAP/DPU; who handles export paperwork, insurance, unloading.
• Liquidated damages for late delivery or performance shortfalls.
• Payment milestones bound to FAT, shipment, SAT/commissioning, training.
• Change order process with fixed rates to avoid surprises.
• IP & software access (logins, configs) post-warranty.

6) Delivery plan & site readiness

Good suppliers help you succeed on day one. Expect a documented plan:

• Pre-delivery checklist: power requirements, cable routes, pad layout, charger placement.
• Commissioning schedule with resource names and travel lead times.
• SAT protocol and acceptance criteria; punch list closure.

7) Quick verification checklist (copy/paste)

8) Red flags

• Certificates expired or mismatched with manufacturing scope.
• Only marketing brochures; no test data or sample reports.
• Service outsourced without named technicians or parts stock.
• Warranty starts at invoice rather than commissioning.
• Unclear Incoterms; buyer unexpectedly handles import risks.