Use a local source Manufacturers are often large, remote and can be difficult to talk to. With a local distributor you can talk to known people quickly, easily and inexpensively.
When service is key Use a customer-focussed distributor who is in the business of stocking and getting products to customers.
Consider your total purchase cost To know what your total purchase really costs, you must include: purchase price; time spent purchasing; paperwork costs for purchase orders, receiving, writing cheques, delivery time and time spent correcting mistakes. Consolidating the purchases from different manufacturer's products with a single distributor can lower all of these costs.
Lower your inventory cost A service orientated local distributor is your best source for just-in-time delivery of your precision parts supply needs. Let the distributor carry the cost of handling, inspecting and storing your inventory needs.
Maximise your influence You will get the best service from a distributor who values your business. Your business will matter more to a local distributor than to a large manufacturer because it reflects a larger percentage of their total sales.
Minimise your freight charges Distributors receive shipments in bulk from the manufacturers. You will pay only the cost of local shipping from your distributor.
Buy where you have an account Distributors will often extend credit to accounts that do substantial business, where a manufacturer doesn’t normally extend this service.
