Direct from the manufacturer - Obviously this would be every purchaser’s ideal choice. But in reality, even with the internet, most manufacturers have already established supply chains in place such as agents and distributors assigned to the various geographic regions or countries. Many of the lesser know ‘budget’ brand manufacturers already have agents appointed for the majority of countries. Even if it was possible to contract direct with a smaller manufacturer, the chances are the MOQ (minimum order quantity) they would require may be too large for you to commit to initially. So in conclusion, the chances of you purchasing directly from a tyre manufacturer are quite slim.
Trade Portals - There has been a massive increase in these sites which allow manufacturers and suppliers to advertise (in most cases free of charge) - they appear to be every buyers answer - one simple search and all your supply options will be solved. In reality the majority of the suppliers advertising will be ‘trading companies’.
Don’t misinterpret our comments here, we are not criticising trading houses or companies - there are some very reputable and professional companies in the marketplace - we are just clarifying the current marketplace.
We have had personal experience of dealing with a company advertising as a ‘Gold member’ on one of the major trade portals. The ‘Gold’ status implied that they were a ‘verified’ and ‘trusted’ company. They took our deposit, never supplied the stock and refused to return our deposit. We complained to the trade portal site, provided plenty of evidence of what was no more than a ‘con’ - and even to this day the company in question is still advertising on this site - with all the ‘credibility’ this trading portal offers for a measly sum of less than $500 - so be warned!
Trading Companies - Ultimately, this is where your final choice will be. The hardest thing here, is identifying the reputable companies. A word of caution - many companies call themselves Xyz Tyre Co. Ltd. - they imply they are tyre manufacturers in their correspondence and in the majority of cases are no more than ‘trading houses’ for the countless manufacturers.
Many of the trading companies deal in several product lines, one such company only the other day offered us a range of products as diverse as car tyres, cement and shoes. One has to question the quality of industry and product knowledge these companies possess.
The most important point to consider is that your contract will be with the ‘trading company’ - not the manufacturer. What happens in the event of problem with the shipment i.e. delivery error or shortage, or worse still, a warranty claim? - Will the trading company assist you? Will the warranty be valid?
There are some excellent trading companies out there - with first class reputations - we are not directing our observations at all trading companies - we are just highlighting the potential pitfalls any buyer should be aware of.
As a tyre buyer, what are your options?
