What you need to know before choosing where to buy lab equipment

When it comes to buying lab equipment, there are many options available on the market. Usually, you can find dozens of websites that offer you what you’re looking for so that you can conveniently shop, choose what you need, make the payment online and voilà… your purchase is being processed and will be delivered to you soon.

But as simple as it looks, you may want to carefully consider the pros and cons of the different options available when purchasing lab equipment. Would it be better to shop on a manufacturer’s website and buy directly from them? Would it be the same to buy from a distributor?

The benefits of each option depends on your unique needs and preferences. In order to have a better idea of how these options will meet your expectations, here’s what you need to know about them.

Buying from the manufacturer

Lower prices
In general, purchasing directly from manufacturers is less expensive since it eliminates the price markups added by the middleman.

No one knows better
If you’re planning to buy a specific piece of equipment, there’s absolutely no one that knows it better than the manufacturer. Talking directly to an application specialist will help you understand its pros and cons. Will it fulfill your purposes? Are upgrades available? They can even tell you about their users and how the products have worked for them.

Special offers
Buyers may have access to special deals that are only available through contact with the manufacturer. You may get deep discounts, package deals, special payment options, and services.

Customization
Customizing a product or service to your exact specifications can be a lot easier when dealing directly with the manufacturer. This can eliminate misunderstandings that may arise between you and a third party.

Buying from distributors

Eases the job of buying
Purchasing equipment generally means a lot of time investment and responsibilities. Choosing to rely on distributors means handing the responsibility to a third party and making better use of your time. This is especially important when purchasing involves importations. In this case, distributors might assume costs and/or figure out all the logistics of importing the equipment, which can make your life much easier.

Service factor included (or negotiable)
Distributors know that they have to add value to the transaction. In order to accomplish that, they may offer local service and support. This is especially important to avoid spending time looking for external help, which may be far away and cost significant amounts of time.

All in all, before choosing where to buy your lab equipment from, determine your needs and wants, and carefully address what manufacturers and distributors can offer. The idea is to not focus just on the price, but also the benefits that each offer. And last but not least, regardless of what you choose, remember to take the time to research the companies you choose to work with.