There may come a time within your trading life that you should decide to look for a new parts supplier. By keeping your eyes peeled for any red flags regarding your current procurement process, you will be more equipped to see if they are suiting your needs, or if it is time to move on. This could especially be the case if a supplier has recently changed ownership, which may lead to other changes within its company structure and working practices. This doesn't mean you need to jump ship straight away, but instead keep yourself informed about what you expect from a supplier, and what you shall do if those needs are not met.
Increased Prices
While minimal price changes can be completely normal, due to changes in creation costs, as well as supply and demand, severe price hikes may be a sign that a supplier no longer values its customers, and instead simply wants to make as much profit as possible. If this is the case, you may wish to start your search here to find a new supplier who sells parts for reasonable prices. In addition to this, you want to know that your loyalty to a particular company or vendor will be valued, especially when your business requires you to make frequent, sometimes very costly, purchases.
Lack of Quality
If the quality of parts that you are being sold suffers, this can have a detrimental effect on the work you can do for your clients, as well as gaining repeat business. Something as simple as UV damage to the plastics of the parts can greatly deteriorate their lifespan, as well as cause harm to any of the electrics. Cracked and split parts may not function as intended, and even lead to further damage being caused to the system that you are trying to fix. Instead, it could be better to look for a supplier that offers high quality parts that can, in turn, keep your own business operating up to the standards you desire.
Poor Customer Service
A lack of respect from the supplier to your needs and issues can be a sign of poor customer service, and may make you reconsider using them for your business needs. When dealing with problems with orders, as well as making the orders to begin with, you want to be sure that any comments or queries you have will be dealt with professionally, and in a timely manner. You should never need to deal with rudeness, abrasiveness, or even sheer disrespect as a paying customer to these suppliers and, should it occur, need to find another business that will respect and value the business you provide them.
Looking for these, and other warning signs, when using a component part supplier can help you to find the best service possible. Using online customer review sites may also aid you in working out if a business is worthy of your trade, or if you need to consider seeking inventory replenishment elsewhere.
