As a product manager or procurement manager, getting a top supplier for all components for manufacturing, fabrication or construction jobs is important. This is true for everything from fasteners and equipment supplier to buying the best quality of aluminum round rod.
Unfortunately, many people that are in charge of purchases don’t take the time to do their homework on their suppliers. Just a bit of research on the supplier for your aluminum round rod can help to avoid the potentially costly mistakes listed below.
Buying from Online Auctions
There are some terrific deals that can be found online through reputable aluminum suppliers. This is particularly important to follow up with if you are placing a volume order or if the order will be an ongoing repeat order. Most suppliers will work with companies to give the best possible prices based on the volume of the order.
Buying online through auctions may look like a good option, but it can be a nightmare. The aluminum round rod can be in bad condition or it can be very low quality and it can even be completely different sizes. Typically these are buyer beware types of purchases, which only adds to the cost of the project if it isn’t right.
Buying from General Metal Suppliers
While it is possible to buy aluminum round rod from general metal suppliers, it is always recommended that these purchases be made through an aluminum specialist company.
These companies work with the top mills in the country, and they end to handle a larger volume, passing on the lower prices to their customers. Additionally, for special orders or custom extrusions they can do everything at one time, ensuring you get all the aluminum you need with one order.
Not Checking Lead Time for Large Orders
Not all aluminum suppliers are designed to handle large or ongoing orders, even for standard types of products such as aluminum round rod. Before placing the order it is essential to contact the company and verify the lead time needed to place the order required and have it shipped and delivered.
Even a great price isn’t a deal if the lead time required doesn’t work with your needs for the aluminum or if the company can’t arrange for shipping and delivery on your schedule.
Keep in mind that shipping costs can also vary between suppliers and this is another question to ask before placing your order for aluminum round rod and other aluminum components from any supplier.
