Vendor Rant Options

[Bulldog9]

I've spent a lot of $$ the last 3 years..... I try to use P car specific vendors, and like most of you have had good and bad experiences, most, especially 914 have been outstanding. I will say though that some need to get their crap in gear. This Monday I ordered 2 parts. 1 from Summit, 1 from Pelican. Standard shipping, nothing special. I receive the part from Summit on Tuesday afternoon and as of 6 pm nothing from Pelican.

This has happened many times from Pelican and though I value their contribution, 50% of the time I order and PAY only to find there is a delay, and it always takes 5-8 days to get the part. Frankly, that's why I dont/wont use them for parts unless necessary. It is unfortunate because they provide such a valuable resource for us.

Why do I only find out the part is delayed until after I pay? Many websites let you know when you order it it is not in stock. BLUF, this is the last time I will order from Pelican unless it is my only option. I understand that suppliers like CFR, Rebel, Original Customs, 914 Rubber etc. are builders and enthusiasts first and suppliers second, but their customer service turn around and response are outstanding..... Companies like Pelican and Summit present themselves as parts suppliers and IMO SUmit is rocking it..... FWIW, I wont order from Rock Auto anymore for the same reason.

rant over............

[914Sixer]

You must remember that this the digital age. Most sellers DO NOT own any inventory. Inventory has MANY costs built into it. There was a time that people only sold what they had. Now you have to wait until the item is shipped to the seller so they can send it to you.

Have you been to FLAPS lately? They are fast approaching this way of doing business too!

[somd914]

You must remember that this the digital age. Most sellers DO NOT own any inventory. Inventory has MANY cost built into it. There was a time that people only sold what they had. Now you have to wait until the item is shipped to the seller so they can send it to you.

Have you been to FLAPS lately? They are fast approaching this way of doing business too!

I agree, but on the flip side for our DDs I use FLAPS more now than I did 5-10 years ago when I relied on internet sites as FLAPS seems to be able to get parts faster than buying from Rock Auto, Parts Geek, etc. And FLAPS don't charge shipping. Case in point, stuck caliper on my son's Miata, started calling around yesterday afternoon, none in stock anywhere in town, but we have one being transferred from another store w/o a charge and w/o us having to drive a few hours to get it.

I also can't think of another vendor who I deal with who holds an order due to a back ordered item or will charge additional shipping to break up an order that contains a back ordered item.