What locks to stock

[KeyworksLSS]

Hi im a newbie,

Ive been working for other people for a year or so, now i want to set up for myself, ive got the tools and the van, but what stock is the best to start with, im on a limited budget, and im in a different area than i have previously worked in, and sombody else used to stock the van, any suggestions!

[bonez]

check the diy stores in the area you will be working ask them
what sells well or whats most common.
basically though you need a stock of all types of pvc/ali cylinders
thumb turns etc. all types of lever locks bs and non bs,window handles
lock strips the list go's on.
maybe you should have stocked the old van at some point!

hope this helps.

but you'll always need something you have'nt got.
good luck

[haribo]

Most of the major locks suppliers will set you up with a 'starter pack' Try SKS 01442 291400 they are good for your everyday stock. You say how much you want to spend and they make it up for you. Good to get as said an idea of your local sheds eg B&Q and what they sell. My area ERA mortice locks are popular. and everywhere seems to be UPVc so a good stock of euro and oval cylinders of each size and split are essential both brass and satin finishes.

[Chris B]

[toomush2drink]

It may be worth asking sks to put together a pack for you.They did this for me when i started and it gave me a good selection of stuff to cover most situations.Once you start using it up then you know what you need and what you dont

[KeyworksLSS]

So now i have an idea of what to stock, what do you think my minimum and maximum spends should be ?

[toomush2drink]

There really isnt any maximum, you will always need to order something. As chris has listed above will get you started but you may need several of each lock, for instance just had a call from a guy who wants 4 locks fitted tomo, i can say yes as i have the stock but what if i didnt ? I would have lost the job as he wanted them in the morning.Its not too much of a problem if your near a wholesaler like duffels or aldridge (i see your in london) if you can get to them but i takes up your time.remember you dont just need 2 or 3 of each lock but also you need different finishes ie brass and satin and different sizes. I think my first order with sks was for over £600 for a mixed lot but it only got me started and i was soon ordering stacks more.

[KeyworksLSS]

Thanks very much toomush. My current job is in crystal palace, so i will check Duffells out. I had no idea they were there, ive been dealing with citysafe and Aldridges( Aldridges gave me an account but wont send me a catalogue ???).
Will it be ok to just turn up at Duffells, or should i contact them first. I can wave my MLI card at them if it will help.

[toomush2drink]

If your near duffells then your in business, speak to them at the trade counter and they will help, gary is very helpful and knowledgable (hes their locksmith).You could probably open a trade cash account quickly but will have to wait a bit for the credit account as they have to check your references. Aldridge are always late with catalogues etc as its a seperate department from sales, you will get it if you keep asking.Also their assec range is a good starting point cost wise as they give you 50% on that whereas most other stuff is about 40%.

[jdeacon]

I'm just starting up as well. What area of London do you cover? I cover Clapham and surrounds.

I can't afford a huge stock; plus I prefer to use my motorbike which, although it has big panniers is limited as to what it can carry.

However with Duffells so convenient (and such nice people) I haven't had a stock problem yet. I've just received my Alldridge trade card but also not had a catalogue. Mind you I've not actually had anything from them yet; Duffells and SKS have been entirely adequate so far.

I read somewhere that the Alldridge trade card doesn't get you trade price, which seems a bit rum. Wonder if that's true.

[KeyworksLSS]

thanks guys
how can i get in touch with SKS ?

[KeyworksLSS]

John, its gotta be real cold on that bike !!!

[Keyring]

how can i get in touch with SKS ?

01442 291400

(Hope it's ok this time DB!)