Hey all, Just getting into this as a career rather than a hobby and was wondering if anyone had any info on distributors...any help...horror stories?

Thanks

You should probably be more specific about exactly what you want to do. There are many facets to this business from central vac to home theater to security and all points in between and around. I see you are in Boston. I am sure Mass. requires some form of contractors liscence depending on what you want to do. Many states require a certain number of years experience to even sit for the exam. If you do not have this I would look into working for someone like Tweeter or a local systems contractor for a few years. Learn while you get paid! Good Luck!

Personally, I DO NOT think we should post a list of distributors on an open forum.

Most of mine are already deluged with applications from end users which take up too much of their time that they could be spending helping me find my order. Ultimately, the largest majority of applications without trade references find their way into the trash.

If you have some specific lines you are interested in, call those manufacturers and get the info on their reps and distribution policies. Some lines are harder to buy than others, and don't expect to set up shop next to the largest integrator in the area and get the same lines they sell.

For basic necessities like specialty tools and wire, a Home Depot card and a local electrical distributor account are great places to start.

Once you start calling around and understanding who the players are in your area, you can see who can offer you certain categories.

Agree 100%, my stomach knotted up just at reading the title of the post. Please follow the advice you have been given, take the correct steps to ensure you do not make unnecessary mistakes (business, as well as install related) and force the unpleasant label of trunkslammer upon yourself.

2nd Rick speaks eloquently for me.

I also agree. Even a good factory line can have poor distribution in certain areas of the country.

We should never get into this topic of lists at this web site.

Mike

Here ya go Chris,
www.bestbuy.com
www.circuitcity.com
wwwcrazyeddies.con

Youre welcome

Chris, sorry to be skeptical but I find it suspicious that someone just getting into the business is bypassing some on the job training and needs to resell equipment from the start. Do you have like 50 dens and living rooms you practice in?

distributors?

Well, i kinda like the Mallory magneto i had on my old mopar 20 years ago... It fired every time, and the spark got stronger the more the old 440 revved...

Now, i run an electronic Marelli on y Fiat... Marelli did a lot of development for GM, so if i ever need a part, I can get an inferior GM unit and it'll still work


oh.... wait.... wrong type of distributors...

try best buy (that's an oxymoron, eh), radio shack, and tweeter

You forgot

sears.com
costco.com
ebay.com

Ward, don't you think you were a little hard on the Beaver?
I wholeheartedly agree that we should not post distributors here but if this guy is enthusiastic and energetic he should start by working for someone else before slamming his trunk. Don't you agree?

Intensional???

UDOIT, just off Rt 128 or is it 95?

If he really wanted in the business bad enough he could do a little research on the net and find all the distributors he wanted and more.



Robbie S

When I am interested in a new brand I usually call the manufacturer and see what it takes to buy direct. Then they usually want an opening order of anywhere between 5-10k. And they won't just give you a line. You have to be reputable, unless of course you want to sell Norcent, Olevia, DAEWOOOOOO, or funai. If so try Walmart.

If you really are interested in starting your business, call the brands you want to carry. Have a business plan ready, and a bunch of initial investemnt money ready.

Mike