What's your time worth?

[Super_Dave]

Today, after 20 minutes on hold, I found out that a part I need (Passenger Inner Fender) in order to move forward, had the delivery date from Summit changed from 5/16 (already late) to 6/15...

So, I spent two hours looking for an 'affordable' alternative. Now, this part is not among the more costly sheetmetal parts. As everyone knows, it's the shipping that kicks you in the arse.

I called five places to confirm availability.

Vendor (1) - 20 minute wait. Hung up. Called back and hour later. 10 minute wait. Part is available.
Shipping: $230 from East Coast!

Vendor (2) - 18 minute wait. Part is available.
Shipping: $141 for a 100 mile trip!

Vendor (3) - No answer for availability.
Shipping: $45 online calculator from Mid-West.

Vendor (4) - No answer. Straight to voice mail. No returned call. No business.

Vendor (5) - No wait. Immediate answer. Product available.
Shipping: $30 - leaves tomorrow from Kansas.

They all sold Goodmark or Key Parts sheetmetal and the unit cost spread was a low of $29 to a high of $60... and the high was a Goodmark vendor, surprisingly.

So, was it worth 2 hours of frustration? Debatable. You try to support certain vendors but choke on shipping. You want quality parts, but most vendors don't advertise who they buy from. In the end, you pretty much don't have a choice... you have to spend the time to stretch your dollars.

Lesson learned: There is a reason why Summit is the #1 automotive vendor for price (most of the time) and timely, fair, shipping. LMC is a good alternative.