Choosing a hardwood timber supplier is never as complicated as splitting an atom. However, when your company depends on quality lumber, it can make a difference between satisfying clients and seeing them take their valuable business elsewhere. If you are starting your search for a full-service supplier with experience in manufacturing and distribution, the following are some factors to consider.
Honestly
In the industry that is still based on handshake and value of one’s word, it is vital to do business with suppliers who are honest and stick to what they say. Ensure the supplier you choose does not make promises they cannot fulfill. Honesty, as well as fair treatment of customers, need to be the critical elements of a wood supplier.
Dependability
As a customer, you expect to get a specific grade and quality of hardwood lumber. The supplier you choose must, therefore, be able to deliver the type of lumber you need every time. Your business depends on it. A supplier needs to be dependable enough to plan for contingencies when the demand is high, and supply is tight. Such a supplier can also work with you to find the wood you need at prices that work for you.
Access to Supply
Every business dealing in the timber industry understands that there are peaks and valleys in inventory. However, most of them less commonly understand that some of the suppliers have greater access to supply than others. When it is access to sawmill, logs, existing kiln dried inventories or relationship with providers, access to timber supply is never consistent. When dealing with suppliers with access to potential supply, you will benefit from having more timber inventory and product options from which to choose without concerns of supplies drying up suddenly.
Product Quality
Hardwood timber products are graded depending on the accepted industry standards. For each grade purchased, the client expects to get the right cutting units expected from the grade. When timber is processed off-grade or with other unacceptable defects present, it impacts the quality of the timber the customer receives. This means you can get boards which do not fit your purpose hence your money goes to the drain. Ensure the supplier has experience in sawing, grading, drying, sorting and delivery. This will ensure you get the desired product quality.
Creativity
Suppliers who help clients overcome obstacles or get new ways to grow their businesses are valued partners in the timber industry. Some suppliers design unique solutions for clients. By better understanding the manufacturing process of the clients they can match appropriate characteristics of timber, so they are more effective, efficient and generate better yields. Look for a supplier who offers solutions.
When choosing a hardwood timber supplier, take these factors into account. Besides these factors, ensure you select a supplier who will serve as a trusted source and understands your business objective and strategies.