Supplier guides

Supplier guides

How to use the supplier guides

Each guide lists types of vendors, verified vendor websites checked live in October 2026, and the questions to ask before you buy or open an account. We list no prices because they change and depend on your account, location and volume. Get written quotes and compare them line by line with the same items, quantities and terms.

Questions to ask any supplier

• What are the minimum order and delivery fees?
• Which delivery days serve my address?
• What payment terms and account requirements apply?
• How are returns, credits and substitutions handled?
• Who do I contact when something goes wrong?
• Are products certified for my use, where required?

Avoiding fake supplier sites

Check that the company's address and phone can be verified independently, be cautious of prices far below market and wire-transfer-only payments, and confirm the website domain matches the company name. When in doubt, call the manufacturer and ask for an authorized dealer.

Track quotes and orders

Use the supplier quote comparison worksheet and the equipment purchase checklist in our free tools to keep decisions organized.

Building a supplier list

Most small businesses do best with one main supplier for regular orders and one or two backups for emergencies and specialty items. Keep a simple list with each supplier's contact, account number, delivery days, minimums and payment terms, and review it every few months for price changes, missed deliveries or better options. Good relationships with sales reps often bring early notice of price increases, substitutions and new products.

When to buy new, used or rented

Buy new when reliability, warranty and certification matter most, such as refrigeration or safety equipment. Consider used for durable items you can inspect and test. Rent when a need is occasional or uncertain. Compare the total cost over the period you'll use the item, including delivery, installation, maintenance and energy.

Industries covered

Restaurants, food trucks, cleaning businesses, salons and barbers, and contractors who need estimate and field service software. Industry playbooks include more supplier tips for each trade, such as distributor relationships, van stock lists and equipment checklists.

Why we list no prices

Supplier prices change often and depend on your account, location, order size and delivery schedule, so any number we printed would be wrong for many readers. Instead, ask each vendor for a written quote with the same items and terms, then compare totals including delivery, minimums and payment terms. Recheck prices every few months, because distributor pricing can shift with markets and seasons, and keep at least one backup source for your most important items.