When you hear the word “bearings” you probably think of SKF, Timken and/or INA. Believe it or not, we’re actually okay with the fact that you probably don’t think of Ritbearing right away, because, quite honestly, we don’t want to be like those guys anyway.
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why we’d say something like that:
Order Fulfillment:
The truth about the big 3 manufacturers is that timely order fulfillment is not a top priority. Why else would it take, in some cases, as long as 2 years to get your bearings? And when you got your order, were you prepared to pay the “time of shipment” cost, which was probably higher than what you were quoted originally? And come to think of it, did you even have any bearings on the shelf at that point?
Customized Solutions:
It’s true that the big 3 manufacturers have a wide, wide selection of bearings. But sometimes, you need a custom-engineered bearing to get the job done. Unfortunately, unless you’re ordering 18 billion bearings, you’re not going hear a whisper about anything customized from those guys.
Scare Tactics:
Speaking of their wide selection, have you ever found yourself bullied into buying product from one of the big 3? A lot of times, you’ll be told that companies like Ritbearing don’t have the scope of product, technical support, or the same quality that a Timken, INA, or SKF can provide. That’s a flat-out lie. Ritbearing, through our manufacturer network, can provide the same scope of product. And in terms of quality…some of the companies in our manufacturer network also make bearings for the big 3!
Minimum Order Quantity:
Last but not least, the truth about the big 3 manufacturers is that you have to order a lot…and we mean A LOT of bearings for them to consider working with you.
All of this boils down to one thing: they have all the power in the business relationship, you have none. And that puts you at greater risk.
YOU HAVE OTHER OPTIONS
Regardless of whether you ever choose to do business with us, we want you to know that you don’t have to limit yourself – whether you’re an OEM or distributor – to working with the big 3. There are wholesalers like us who want to supply custom-engineered bearings, who have lower order quantity requirements, who fulfill orders in months, not years, and of course, who provide the same scope and quality of bearings as the big 3.
So make sure you’re taking the time and effort to explore your other options, because the truth about the big 3 is this: You don’t have to put up with their games anymore.