So back in the day when I first started, I would buy my supplies from companies like Rochford supply or Sailrite. Then I finally got an account at Trivantage, and couldn't believe how much better the prices were, especially for fabrics.
Well, they've revamped their website recently, and apparently their prices too? Oh, and don't get me started on the shipping charges.
Last night I was shopping for YKK release buckles for 1" webbing, for example. Trivantage wants $1.31 each. I checked Sailrite, and they have them for .55 each, and they charge about half of what Trivantage does for shipping.
I will still shop at Trivantage for fabrics, but I'll take the time to check elsewhere for other items.
Does anyone else comparison shop, or do you rely on your trade wholesalers to give you the best price?
I would compare prices but make sure your comparing apples to apples. Some will sell better quality and some from over seas.
I've found TriVantage to be WAAAAAY overpriced lately. But regardless of supplier, I frequently do comparison shopping. Oh and those side-release YKK buckles can be had for about 28 cents. $14 for 50 ain't so bad.
http://www.countrybrookdesign.com/webbing-and-hardware/buckles/plastic/1-inch
or
http://www.countrybrookdesign.com/webbing-and-hardware/buckles/plastic/1-inch/25-1-ykk-flat-side-release-plastic-buckles.html
I haven't purchased from them so don't know what shipping ends up being, but I always look around when I anticipate buying more than 2 or 3 of something.
June
I sole source nearly everything through MiamiMike. The main reason why is not only prices but service. I had an issue with some fabric two weeks ago and when I called him I had replacement fabric the next day.
I have found Miami's prices very competitive and on the fabric I use ( recacril and sattler ) they are the cheapest. There are a few things I buy elsewhere - velcro, stainless studs, stainless staples, etc.
Fabric wise 100 % of my stock comes from Miami Corp. if they don't have it they get it for me. The customer service is just phenomenal. MiamiMike is a rockstar when it comes to bending over backwards and doing whatever it takes to make my job cheaper and easier.
One other reason why I use Miami is the shipping arrangement. I pay $ 10 per order regardless if I am buying 10 yards or a full roll. I am within their courier district and the courier company delivers to my doorstep. I can order today and the next morning it is here.
Chris
Mojo shipping seems to keep going up, $10 sounds like a bargain from there to here in the St.Louis, area.
Inflation in everything is an issue, fabrics, shipping, utilities, and you name it. Makes us shop owners work harder to get ahead.
Doyle
Jojo, you really need to get wholesale accounts at SailRite and MiamiCorp. I believe both will set you up without a large first order. Their wholesale discounts are significant (depending on the item, of course). And Chris is right with Miami's service. They're great. I get vinyl from them and while I'm not in their courier area, the shipping isn't bad at all.
June
JoJo:
Miami ships out of several warehouses so depending on where your at they can ship out of the closest warehouse ( as long as what you need is in stock ).
I know Mike will gladly set you up with a wholesale account if you contact him. His number is 919-518-1441.
His e-mail address is: MWeunski@miamicorp.com
Chris
His number is 919-518-1441
Not my number? 513 298 5519 is my direct work number.
If i can't set you up we have others that can.
Mike
I have never had the chance to speak with Miami mike, but I deal with Ray Edwards and I try to keep all my business with them, customer service is outstanding, I am not a big company, I spend probably on average 1500 a month, so by focusing on one vendor it helps with keeping them happy and you happy...I do order things elsewhere when I cant get it from Miami, but only when they do not carry it...also they can give you better deals if you call your order in as opposed to ordering online
I wish I could get that blue streak $10 delivery from Miami.
We are working on it. Also I am in town tonight. Can we get together tomorrow? I have some new samples with me. You got my number let me know.
Yesterday eould have boon good but today il be patterning