At first glance, it might seem like all metric fastener suppliers offer the same thing. This leads some customers to shop around for the best pricing, not realizing that they’re comparing apples to oranges.
That's because the quality of the fastener and compliance with all standards matter. Customers need an expert who understands the different use cases of fasteners and can recommend the best equipment for the job.
The material you need will be dependent on use. But you also don’t want a supplier who will sell you the most expensive fastener for less important use cases where the fasteners experience less stress.
We explain the important factors in choosing a metric fastener supplier so you can make an informed decision, while still getting the best price.
The metric fasteners you use to assemble an aircraft will be different from those you use in plumbing fixtures. Fasteners used on aircraft will undergo the most stress and scrutiny of just about any use case.
On the other hand, plumbing fasteners are not as serious. While you still want them to work and perform, they are holding back water instead of holding together tons of material that is a life-or-death situation for its passengers.
You want a supplier who will ask for details about how you're using the fastener. Some suppliers rush off the call to serve another customer and move on with their day. Those aren't the ones you want to work with. Instead, your supplier should know the importance of a quality fastener and stay on the line until they've found the best solution for your needs.
As you consider your metric fastener suppliers, evaluate the quality of the materials they sell. While it might seem like all fasteners are equal, that isn’t the case.
Some fasteners do not have standards or requirements. The markings on these fasteners will tell you that is the case. And as a consumer, you need to be careful how you order.
Some suppliers take customer orders very literally. So if you say you want 18-8 bolts, you might get ASTM fasteners that follow no standard or requirements. The risk in this is that these non-standard fasteners might have different chemistry, which can affect their strength and performance.
As you evaluate suppliers, be sure to read up on the Industrial Fastener Institute guidelines for quality fasteners and suppliers. And if you want stainless steel, always be sure to specify to make sure your supplier understands what you're looking for.
Ordering fasteners can be frustrating because they often come from overseas. Sometimes you can anticipate your needs and order well in advance to take advantage of slower, cheaper shipping options.
In other situations, you need fasteners here now to avoid project delays or having equipment down and unavailable for use. Choose a supplier who has various freight options and is willing to get the fasteners to you when you need them.
You might need a one-time, quick order. Or you might have standing, recurring orders where you want your supplier to manage the timelines and choose the best freight option for you.
Eurolink Fastener Supply Service provides freight options to meet your needs and the ability to get in hard-to-find metric fasteners within a week when you really need them.
Some metric fasteners suppliers carry only common sizes, materials and styles. Those are the easiest to sell. Yet, each customer needs something different.
Choose a supplier who has an extensive inventory of hard-to-find fasteners while still providing outstanding customer service. That way, you can order all your fasteners in one place to take advantage of bulk pricing and simplify your ordering process by working with one supplier.
At Eurolink Fastener Supply Service, if we don’t have the fastener in stock, we’ll do our best to find it for you. Request a hassle-free quote today to learn more about how we can serve you.