Independent Tool Dealers

[richfinn]

Are there any members trawling round Garages selling quality tools out of a van that do not have a franchise with one of the big manufacturers?

Is it profitable?

Where do you buy wholesale?

How much margin can you add?

Do you offer warranty?

Is it possible to sell finance on big ticket items? or do you just let them pay a little every week?

Do you supply diagnostic equipment/training?

I have loads more questions if anyone has any answers, I like tools and I think I could sell quality stuff to the trade. Where would I start?

 

[fatfillup]

I sell a lot of used tools out of my store. I have dealt with a few Indy tool dealers and it is like any other business. Work it hard, treat your customers well and you will do fine.

Most I know of get their tools from local wholesale warehouses. I think there are 3 in Baltimore. Yes the good ones will warranty tools. As far as margins, I would guess 30 to 40% meaning if you sell it for $100, it cost you $70 to $60. Low dollar items probably double your money. Some will finance.

Service is key as well as dependability. As far as big ticket items, you could hook up with a local leasing company or take credit cards. You had better have enough money to stock the truck and live a couple of months with little to no income.

A great market is those shops the big brands overlook. I have several customers that come to my store on a regular basis because no truck shows up at their shop. Think large farms, folks that are off the beaten path, welding shops. The car dealers and larger indy shops will be well covered.

You could make it but it will take some upfront money and a lot of hard work and long hours.

 

[truckwrench1]

wher i work we have an sts tool man it is a franchise kind of you might look into that he sells every thing from heepo cheepo to proto, sk, gearwrench, k tool, channellock, and extreme tool boxes and international tool boxes... he used to drive a van. he is our only tool man that shows up every week. works 4 days a week, long days and has upgraded his truck to the size of a shuttle bus. he making money but he works it also check phoenix tools i think they are the same way

 

[FergusonTO35]

Lexington has an S-K guy named Big Mike. He's been around for at least 20 years. S-K is his main brand but he can get you just about anything that doesn't require a franchise. I don't know if he makes a huge amount but he does ok, lives in a smaller house and drives vehicles that are long since paid for.

 

[Fedwrench]

http://www.vehicleservicepros.com/magazine/cpd

Here's a magazine aimed at mobile tool dealers that give you some insight.
ISN is a large supplier of online and independent mobile dealers.

 

[richfinn]

Thanks Guys, Snap On is so expensive in the UK there has to be a niche market selling German/French (and even some USA brands I never knew existed) tools to mechanics/electricians.

 

[FergusonTO35]

Rich, doesn't Mac have dealers in the UK also? One time I ran across the Mac Tools UK website, showed a dealer driving a tool truck that looked like a huge minivan.

 

[richfinn]

Rich, doesn't Mac have dealers in the UK also? One time I ran across the Mac Tools UK website, showed a dealer driving a tool truck that looked like a huge minivan.

Not seen one in a long time, maybe 5 years ago ???

 

[ccasey109]

I am also looking to reach out to a few independent tool distributors. I work with a major tool company that would like to be able to sell through this type of distribution channel. If you are out there please drop me a note.

 

[jfcasey]

We have a guy around here who stay busy. He was an sk guy but these days he's the goto guy for any thing non tool truck brand.