Anyone who owns or operates heavy machinery knows the importance of a dependable parts supplier. Downtime in the industry is costly, so knowing where to turn when a part is needed is essential. Many people rely on OEM parts in this situation, but aftermarket parts are typically the better choice. Why is this the case?
Branding
The biggest difference between OEM and aftermarket parts lies in their branding. OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer who made the heavy equipment, so they come with immediate name recognition. While these parts are guaranteed to work with the equipment needing repair, they come with a high price tag. A person can save a large sum of money by purchasing aftermarket parts. The aftermarket manufacturers aren’t paying for branding and advertising, so they can pass these savings on to their customers.
Performance Considerations
Aftermarket parts offer the same performance as their corresponding OEM parts. For example, a person can purchase an aftermarket switch group and know it will do the same job as its OEM counterpart. Purchase from a reputable supplier and know the part will offer the performance and functionality seen with the OEM component. The same holds for any aftermarket part.
Availability of the Parts
Aftermarket parts are readily available. Several manufacturers make these parts. If one supplier lacks the part needed to fix the heavy equipment, another supplier might have it in stock. A person can check multiple suppliers to quickly find the part they need, allowing them to get the heavy machinery operational again.
Only one company makes OEM parts, and that’s the original manufacturer of the machinery. If they don’t have the part in stock, receiving it may take some time. The owner of the heavy machinery will experience downtime over which they have no control. This is not only frustrating, but it may also lead to a loss of customers. No business owner wants that.
Equipment Age
Manufacturers have limitations when it comes to what they can produce. Thanks to technological advances, OEM part manufacturers typically focus on parts for the latest vehicles. This can make it hard for owners of older machines to find what they need. Aftermarket suppliers play a vital role in filling the gap. When the original manufacturer discontinues making parts for older machines, the aftermarket part supplier can step in and help customers find what they need. There is no need to upgrade older equipment when it breaks. The aftermarket part supplier helps customers keep their equipment running longer, saving companies time and money.
Quality
The quality of an aftermarket part is always a concern. Work with a reputable supplier to obtain this part and put any fears to rest. Often, parts sold by the aftermarket manufacturer are of higher quality than the original. Manufacturers in this sector realize they have competition, and their parts must meet and exceed customer expectations. If they don’t, the supplier won’t be in business long. They learn from mistakes made by the manufacturer and improve on the parts before putting them on the market.
Look to an aftermarket supplier when you need parts for heavy machinery. Doing so will save you time and money and allow you to feel confident the machine will perform as expected. When choosing this supplier, consider their reputation, customer service, pricing, and inventory. The right supplier becomes a partner to the business, so this is one choice you want to make wisely.
