Knowing how scarce or rare an aircraft part is can really help drive up the value. Try and identify how many quotes are out there monthly and what availability (quantity) is available. A good example would be for older legacy aircraft parts that are Serviceable (SV), Repaired (RP), Overhauled (OH) and As Removed (AR). Industry websites like https://www.ilsmart.com and https://www.partsbase.com/ sell data that can help identify supply and demand for specific aircraft parts based on their own traffic. However, speaking to other vendors, getting quotes from multiple sources can be invaluable in identifying the best price.
Generally speaking, an Overhauled (OH) part is more expensive than a Repaired (RP) or Serviceable (SV) unit. Primarily because it comes with an FAA Certificate 8130 that states the aircraft part is in good enough condition to operate safely in the USA. Overhauled parts also come with the knowledge of when the next OH is needed, so no surprises unlike an SV unit that may need unexpected repairs after purchase.
It goes without saying that trace paperwork is now a prerequisite to any sale. All end users wants to ensure that the parts were not from an sanctioned aircraft and or involved in a crash. Both of these situations can have very serious implications, resulting in fines, suspensions or damage to your business reputation. Without the correct paperwork the value of the parts can be considerably reduced.
Ensuring you double check the location of parts prior to purchasing ensures you have an accurate lead time and a better knowledge of any additional freight costs. Sometimes plane parts can be located in countries with duty free zones making it difficult to ship locally with traditional carriers. This can result in increased costs the need for special pick-ups or freight forward specialist operating it that market.
Buying from reputable sources gives you peace of mind. Knowing that your supplier or parts distributor will ship on time with the correct paperwork means a lot. Quite often the reputation of distributors is based on consistency, right part, right place and right time. But also behind the scenes doing their due diligence, ensuring the organization buy parts from high quality sources consistently, with the correct documenation.
Sometimes it’s worth paying that little extra for a 12-month or two-year warranty. Knowing that if the part fails not only are you covered but also you don’t have to find another vendor, increasing costs and aircraft downtime. Getting a 24-month warranty (for example) on SV and RP parts, is nice coverage to have.
Occasionally you may order the wrong part or find out you had the part in stock after making a purchase. In many cases you want to return the parts to the distributor. Ensure that you understand these costs before hand and whether you feel that these costs are fair and reasonable.
It can be very frustrating when we need to talk to a customer service rep and they are not available. Quite often the best companies to buy from are the ones that have a passion for customer service and are available to answer your questions.
Aircraft Parts Distribution started in August 2023, by Troy Palmer former owner of Global Parts. Troy has immense knowledge and credibility in Business Jet aftermarket growing Global Parts from a small start-up into a multi mission dollar business before selling to VSE Corp in 2021. Aircraft Parts Distribution is based out of Augusta. KS and focused on the business jet market selling leading high-quality parts from both Textron and Bombardier as well as other leading brands. www.aircraftparts.net
