When shopping, you might see the product you want for a lower price at a different location, or a similar product from a different brand at a lower price. You can take the cheaper option, but will it be worth it?

There’s always a distributor who has the lowest prices in town. But offering these prices can involve a sacrifice of customer service, product knowledge, and support. When you try to save a few dollars on price, you risk costing your business so much more. Is paying the lowest price in town worth the time and energy lost to incorrect and missing orders?

When comparing your distributor choices, don’t stop after just evaluating price; you should also evaluate the service. Ask yourself: Is your supplier a true business partner for you?

A true business partner emphasizes providing the services and solutions you need to make your business succeed. They provide the information you need, whether it’s for a troubleshooting question, or to learn about a new product to add to your business offering.

Does your supplier offer you ways to save money all year long with early order programs, seasonal items, in-store and online product specials?

Upon failing to meet your expectations, does your supplier quickly correct the situation and issue you a $20 service guarantee coupon to be used toward the purchase price of your next order?

Does your supplier’s credit program include benefits such as job tracking information, express will call service, and “Preferred Customer” specials? Does this supplier connect you with companies who provide discounted products and business services designed to protect, enhance and more efficiently operate your business?

A good supplier should help you grow your business by offering a wide variety of reliable services, sharing knowledge with you, and standing behind its products and services.

They bring value to your business, and keep your best interest in mind. The next time you’re evaluating a supplier, don’t forget to ask about the type of support and service they provide.

When something goes awry on a job, you want to be able to rely on a partner to help you solve problems quickly, and that’s worth more.