One of the most important things on any type of large or small scale project is to have the materials and supplies needed to get the job done correctly. Unfortunately, when suppliers do not deliver on time or when distributors do not have the inventory or the parts required, it can slow down the job and potentially cost contractors money.
In any industry, from water systems for municipal waterworks to manufacturing and processing systems for breweries, distilleries or food, and beverage production, valves are an important part of the materials. Specialized valves for boilers, chemical processing, and oil and gas production are also significant and essential components of any system.
Evaluating the various valve distributors in your area or providing materials and components to your industry can provide your business with advantages. A distributor is not the same as a general supplier, and there are differences to consider.
Supplier Vs. Distributor
When looking at the difference between suppliers and valve distributors, think about the types of projects your company bids and wins. If you do the same types of projects over and over, a supplier may be all that is needed. The supplier simply fills the orders from the customer, and as long as there is never a need for customer support, technical information or assistance with specialized valves, they are most likely a good match.
On the other hand, valve distributors are essential for companies that work with a variety of different contracts and jobs. In these situations, the expertise and the ability of the distributor to provide information on the various valves can be instrumental in overcoming challenges and choosing the right parts for the job.
Distributors are also directly linked to the manufacturer. For specialized types of valves or for modifications of valves for specific projects, the distributor can work as the liaison between the contractor and the manufacturer, resulting in shorter delivery time even on custom orders.
