When repairs are needed for your heavy-duty machinery and tractors, it is important to have a reliable aftermarket parts supplier lined up. Equipment downtime cuts into profits and efficiency. According to market research from Industry ARC, industry statistics show that the global market for aftermarket parts in the construction industry is forecast to reach $1,126 million by 2025. This is a compound annual growth rate of 8.37% from 2020-2025, which means there will be more demand for the parts you need to keep your machinery running.
That being said, you’ll need a reputable supplier for quick access to high-quality parts, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service. But how do you know which supplier rises to that challenge? In this blog, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a supplier for your heavy-duty machinery so you know who you can rely on.
1. Look for Quality and Compatibility
Initially, compatibility should be considered when selecting an aftermarket parts supplier. The supplier should offer parts specific to the brand of heavy-duty machinery you use or have parts that are compatible with your brand. Next, look for suppliers who source parts from reputable manufacturers known for producing durable components. High-quality parts improve your equipment’s performance and contribute to its longevity.
At ACTParts, we are proud to supply equipment operators across the country with quality rebuilt parts that we manufacture in our Kansas City-based rebuild shop. Learn more about our rebuilt parts here.
2. Check for Reliability
To go deeper, research the supplier’s background and read customer reviews or testimonials. This sheds light on what you can expect when you work with them. If reviews or testimonials consistently reveal similar patterns, decide if those patterns are positive and indicate a good working-relationship or if they are signs that you should keep searching for a parts supplier. Other things to consider include how long they have been in business and the tenure of the sales representative or staff, which can indicate the business’s stability and expertise.
You could also look up the aftermarket parts supplier on social platforms like LinkedIn, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to learn more about what their current customers are saying.
Next, consider their reputation for on-time deliveries and accurate product information. What is the supplier’s return policy or customer guarantee? Several parts may look the same but have minor differences that render it incompatible with your machine. If you make an ordering mistake, how does their customer service handle returns, refunds, or exchanges?
3. Product Range and Availability
Evaluate the supplier’s product range. You want a supplier that offers a comprehensive selection of heavy-duty equipment parts. This will save you time and effort in sourcing various components from different suppliers. A diverse product range indicates that the supplier is well-established and capable of catering to a wide range of heavy equipment makes and models. Furthermore, inquire about their stock availability and turnaround time to guarantee timely delivery of parts when you need them.
You should also know and understand the difference between aftermarket parts and OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are replacement parts that are designed to match the original part but are not made by the manufacturer of your specific equipment. OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer, refers to replacement parts made by the actual manufacturer of the machinery. Make sure you know what type of replacement part you are buying.
There are many benefits to buying aftermarket parts, including:
1. They are considerably cheaper in price.
2. You have a great deal of choice and the ability to shop around.
3. Most come with a warranty.
4. In some cases, the quality could be superior to the original part.
4. Competitive Pricing
Compare prices among different aftermarket parts suppliers to find the one that offers the best value for your money. While affordability is essential, it is equally important to prioritize quality and not just price alone. Be cautious of extremely low-priced parts, as they may be of inferior quality and can result in additional expenses in the long run. Money initially saved on cheaper parts will be spent in the future when the machine needs repair yet again, not to mention the decreased profits from productivity lost when machines are inoperable. Look for suppliers who offer reasonable prices without compromising on the quality of their products.
5. Customer Support Services
Good customer support can make your purchasing experience smooth and hassle-free. Evaluate the supplier’s customer service by considering factors such as responsiveness to inquiries, availability of knowledgeable staff, and after-sales support. A supplier who can provide expert guidance, assist with part identification, and resolve any issues that arise will greatly enhance your overall satisfaction as a customer. A supplier with product expertise can make all the difference in finding the solution you need.
At ACTParts, our product knowledge is unmatched. Between our experienced sales force and access to technical data, we can supply you with not only the part(s) you need but also guide you on selecting additional parts that may need to accompany it.
6. Warranty and Return Policy
You will want a parts supplier who offers a warranty that ensures you can replace or return a defective part without incurring additional costs. Carefully review the supplier’s return policy to understand the terms and conditions associated with returning or exchanging parts if needed. A supplier with a flexible and customer-friendly return policy provides added peace of mind.
The ACTParts Advantage
Selecting the right aftermarket parts supplier for your heavy-duty equipment requires thorough research and consideration. At ACTParts, we are proud to be a well-respected, tenured aftermarket parts supplier for heavy-duty equipment. We have five distribution centers strategically placed across the United States so we can meet your aftermarket parts needs no matter your location. Once your order is placed in our system, we ship immediately to ensure speedy delivery.
When it comes to the quality of our products, ACTParts is home to the best rebuild shop in the industry. The quality of the parts we rebuild is such that our own experienced mechanics use our parts in the shop too. This allows us to strictly inspect and maintain the highest quality of the parts we rebuild, and it’s why we offer a six-month warranty on all of our parts.
By prioritizing factors such as quality, compatibility, reputation, pricing, customer support, and online presence, you can ensure a reliable supply of high-quality tractor parts. Investing time in finding the right supplier will not only save you money but also contribute to the smooth operation and longevity of your tractor. Contact ACTParts to learn more or find the part you need today.
