Step 1: Verify the identity — not just the name
Find the company's registration number on the quote or draft contract and look it up from the Norway front page. Check that the registered name, address and legal form match what the supplier claims — company names can look alike, and a trading name can sit on top of a completely different legal entity than the one you assume.
Unsure which register applies in which country? See the guide The Nordic company registers explained.
Step 2: Status, age and industry
Next, confirm on the profile that the company is active, when it was incorporated, and that the industry code matches what it is selling. A brand-new company with no filing history is not disqualified — but it should not get long credit terms and large prepayments without additional security.
Step 3: Read the latest filings
Open the two or three most recent annual reports on the profile and look for:
- The result — is the operation profitable, and is the trend stable?
- Equity — falling or negative equity is a serious signal.
- Liquidity — can short-term obligations be covered by current assets?
If the ratios are new to you, start with Understand key financial ratios — and walk through the typical red flags in Warning signs in company financials.
Step 4: Ownership and the group
Look at who really stands behind the company: owners, management and the corporate hierarchy. If you contract with a small subsidiary of a large group, only the subsidiary is liable by default — the parent's strength does not help you without a guarantee. Read more in Ownership structures and beneficial owners.
Step 5: Decide, document and follow up
Use what you found in the agreement itself: shorter credit terms or partial deliveries for a supplier with weak numbers, and milestone payments rather than a large prepayment for a newly founded company. Keep a note of what you checked and when — and repeat the check at contract renewal or when news breaks.
Riskpilot shows register data and computed ratios — not a credit rating and not advice. For continuous monitoring and actual credit decisions there is Risika's platform. See the data foundation under data sources & methodology.
Frequently asked questions
Is a register check the same as a credit rating?
No. A register check shows the public facts — status, filings, roles and ownership. A credit rating weighs and interprets that kind of data and much more. Riskpilot gives you the facts, not a score.
How often should I re-check a supplier?
At contract renewal as a minimum — and immediately if you hear about delayed deliveries, management changes or missing filings.
What about a brand-new supplier with no filings?
Ask for other documentation, use shorter credit terms or milestone payments, and check the people behind it — their roles in other companies are on the register.
Can I check suppliers outside the Nordics?
Not on Riskpilot — coverage is Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. Use the official local register in the supplier's home country.