How to Qualify and Select Product Suppliers

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For your portable sanitation business to be the best it can be, your products need to be as good as your service. You know you can personally deliver the service, but how can you judge the quality of the products you offer?

Most suppliers offer portable sanitation units, sinks, hand sanitizing stands, chemicals and supplies (some offer trailers and trucks), but the levels of quality are not all the same.

The PROs Know

When we asked experts for their opinions on how to select product suppliers, their advice was simple: talk to experienced operators in the industry about product performance. They know how specific brands of units, sinks, chemicals and other supplies work in the field because they’ve used them on a regular basis for years.

In addition to the operators you may meet at events, in local civic groups or business associations, you can network for opinions and insight on suppliers by visiting portable sanitation pages on Facebook and other social media sites.

Getting to know PROs, suppliers and their products is just one reason to attend the WWETT Show. The Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show is the world’s largest annual trade show for wastewater and environmental service professionals. You’ll find more information at https://www.wwettshow.com/en/home.html.

Match Your Needs to Your Suppliers

As you network with other industry professionals, keep these reasons in mind as to why one supplier may meet your needs better than the others:

Price

The price of supplies, from the largest units to the smallest pack of chemicals, can vary widely from one supplier to another. Price is a key factor in deciding on a supplier, but don’t let price alone make or break your decision. Remember, you are selling your services based on quality. Durability, reliability and availability are all critical. When comparing price, make sure you’re comparing “apples to apples” (similar products, styles, amounts, etc.).

Location

Suppliers have regional service centers/warehouses where you can pick up products and supplies instead of having them delivered. For example, PolyJohn has centers in California, Florida, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas and Indiana. You can save a lot of money on shipping costs if there is a service center near you. But also take into account the time and fuel you will spend on a “supply run.”

Product availability

Does the supplier have the products you need readily available? Do they meet deadlines on product shipments? Trust a supplier who consistently delivers.

Ease of ordering

Some suppliers offer online ordering, but in most instances, a customer service representative takes your order by phone. An experienced, knowledgeable rep will make a point of learning your preferences, so get to know the reps. They will take good care of you!

Payment type

Payment is mostly by check or credit card. Some suppliers provide the option of electronic funds transfer (EFT). Look for hassle-free payment.

Value-added services

When buying units, manufacturers may offer additional services such as:

Decal installation
Customized side panels (pressing company logo directly into the plastic)
Load-linking (combining the orders of several operators in one shipment to reduce cost)
Delivery to event venue
On-site assembly (cost-effective only if you have a large order of units)

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