contractor discount vs big box costs

[Piper]

I'm in the process of planning the wiring (on paper) for an attached garage with living space above (both areas are 32 x 24).

I have access to a local Ideal supply Napa Parts place with a "contractor discount" account. I have been told by an electrician that I'm friends with that the prices are pretty good. He buys all his stuff at this place for the jobs he does. He calls/faxes in his order and they get it ready. I'm wondering if there are any general accepted discounts from a place like this? I suppose I could compile my list and ask them for a quote to see.

I just can't see how a place like home depot that sells a fluorescent light fixture for say $15.99 will be beat by a place that sells to electricians even with the discount.

Any ideas?

Piper

 

[Jerm]

I would say don't take the local supplier out of the loop until you check with them cause you might be surprised. I was quoted a dollar less a foot for my 3/0 copper from the local than the big box had it.

 

[Dawgfan]

I got wire and a breaker panel with breakers cheaper from a local supplier than the big boxes also.

 

[hidollartoys]

Wire will be less expensive at supply house. Most items will be less expensive. Best to get a comprehensive list of materials and ask for a quote. Be prepared to purchase all items at one time. Have your electrician friend also ask for a quote for the same items. Sometimes supply houses offer different discount levels for different volume of business or if using charge account or cash.

 

[tfi racing]

Its hard to say which will be cheaper in Canada.The electrical supply companies have been putting it to the contractors for a long time now,don't give a rat's *** about you unless you spend 10K a month and usually bone the walk in public at retail+ because you are "inconveniencing" them with your business.Unless you are buying enough product for 5 houses,the big box stores are hard to beat for residential electrical supplies.Sometimes you can get better pricing on wire at the supply house because they "spot" price it daily based on copper prices.
Get a quote,then bring it to Home Depot or Rona and tell them to beat it by 20% as advertised,then use their buy now,pay later 0% plan!Also don't forget if you order the wrong parts or buy too many,you won't be able to return or exchange it at the supply house.