The last thing I want to do to a customer is quote them a price one day, only to tell them the next day that price has changed. The fact that I can’t quote a price right now that’s good for at least 30 days is beyond frustrating.
I know we are all “used to it” at this point, but it really sucks. I’ve had several manufacturers send out emails saying, “Effective immediately, prices are now 8%, 12%, or 68% higher” only to send out another email 30 days later saying, “Oh wait, it’s now only 10% higher.” At this point, I think we’re all wondering how to navigate this new normal. I honestly can tell you — I have no idea.
However, I do have some great ideas for you to present to your customers who are complaining about prices or whose projects have gone over budget because of the price increases.
For the plants that normally just replace their safety valves every year or so, they could instead send in their valves for VR recertification, which depending on the valve will be half the price of a new valve or on the more expensive steel valves, a fraction of a new valve’s price.
Sure, there are plenty of throwaway valves out there, but most valves are economically eligible for recertification. It is worth broaching the subject with your customers to see if they are interested in the option.
Another great way to save money is to buy a remanufactured valve. With steel process valves and boiler valves prices skyrocketing, our remanufactured valves cost 50% or less than new ones. Plus, delivery is weeks to months quicker than getting new valves from the factories.
Most importantly, you can count on our pricing. We’re not going to quote you a price for a remanufactured valve only to raise it on you in a week or two. Our pricing is locked in for 90 days and usually good for much longer than that if the valve is in stock. We want you to feel confident when quoting prices, so you don’t have to worry about any surprises like you might currently experience with new valves.
One of my father’s favorite sayings is “Profit is not a four-letter word.” We all have to make money, but I also don’t believe in screwing people just because I can. If we can help you even a little by giving you some comfort in knowing you can quote a price on a remanufactured valve and not have to worry about it changing, that’s a win for us all.
Hopefully, things will settle down soon, but regardless, know that we are here to support you in any way we can and will be as fair and honest as possible. As always, we truly thank you for your business.
Andrea Tanis
