| Current authorization | Check the manufacturer’s official distributor locator or contact the manufacturer’s local sales office to confirm the distributor’s status. | “Are you currently authorized to sell products in my country or region?” | Authorization can vary by location and may change over time; confirm it directly rather than relying only on a directory listing. |
| Product-family coverage | Ask which product families the distributor supplies, such as terminal blocks, connectors, industrial automation equipment, power supplies, marking products, or installation tools. | “Can you source the specific product family and part numbers on my bill of materials?” | A distributor may cover only some product families or may need to source certain items through another channel. |
| Local service area | Confirm that the distributor serves your delivery location and can support orders placed from your country or region. | “Do you deliver to my location, and are there regional sales or service restrictions?” | Sales territories, delivery options, taxes, and import requirements depend on the destination. |
| Stock and lead time | Request a current stock check and an estimated delivery date for each required part number. | “Which items are in stock, and what are the estimated lead times for the remaining items?” | Availability and lead times vary by item, quantity, and location; they should be confirmed at the time of quotation. |
| Technical support | Ask whether the distributor provides product selection assistance, documentation, and help identifying compatible parts. | “Can your team help review my application and verify the required specifications?” | Support capability differs among distributors; complex design or compliance questions may require manufacturer assistance. |
| Quotation and order terms | Compare written quotations for part numbers, quantities, currency, shipping, taxes, payment terms, and quotation validity. | “Does the quotation include shipping and applicable taxes, and how long is it valid?” | Written terms make it easier to compare offers and confirm the final landed cost. |
| Returns and warranty handling | Review the distributor’s written return, replacement, and warranty-claim procedures before ordering. | “How are damaged, incorrect, or warranty-related items handled?” | Policies and claim processes may differ by seller and region, so confirm the applicable terms in advance. |