During this time of scarcity and long lead times, you might be scouring the internet for a distributor who has what you need and can get it to you soon. And while that may seem like a great solution, it’s important to choose someone you trust and who is well established in the industry. Do your homework and make sure they measure up. Here are four questions to ask yourself:
- Are they responsive? When calling, emailing or chatting with this potential distributor, are they responsive to your questions and eager to provide you information? Do they follow through? Do they give you the details that you need to make the best decision?
- Are they authorized? We have seen a dramatic increase in the number of gray market products flooding the space. Make sure that whoever you choose to work with is truly an authorized distributor for the manufacturers they are claiming to represent. You are ensuring not only a legitimate product, but you are also getting the technical knowledge and support behind it. Which leads me to:
- Will they support you after the sale? Online shops are sometimes one and done establishments. They do not have the personnel to help you troubleshoot or solve technical problems. They are more interested in an online transaction, not developing a true partnership.
- How wide and deep is their line card? Make sure your distributor has strategic relationships with multiple suppliers. That way they can find the right solution for you from many sources. This ensures you don’t have all your eggs in one basket.
Standard Electric might be new to you, but we have been around for over 100 years. We are a premier partner with the leading electric and industrial automation manufacturers. We have over 17 stocking locations in the Midwest and we have our very own Technical Solutions Team to help provide the support and expertise you need to get the job done.
Don’t take a risk on just any internet source. Call Standard Electric – your trusted advisor since 1919.
Another blog that might help you out was written by my colleague, Jon Herrity: Top 3 Ways to Leverage Your Electrical Distributor Most Effectively. Check it out!
Standard Electric Supply Co. is a family-owned distributor, built on delivering outstanding service. For over 100 years, Standard Electric has been the best at what they do; delivering top-quality products, outstanding service, and providing value-added services to customers across the Midwest. Visit standardelectricsupply.com to see how Standard Electric can become the solution to your needs.
Sharing this post