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Wholesale Inflatables

Buying fun at wholesale prices! What could be better than that? Well, getting large, well-made wholesale inflatables such as slides, moonwalks and other play places at wholesale prices might be the next level.

Over the past couple of decades, several companies have established themselves in this every-expanding field. Many of these suppliers of wholesale inflatables manufacture their products, as well as acting as their own warehouse/distribution experts. Others are manufacturer's representatives, working with both the producer and the customer to put colorful, safe wholesale inflatables where they can be enjoyed the most.

A couple of tips before getting into further details: There are dozens of merchants who offer wholesale inflatables, selling to retail stores, businesses, and individuals around the globe. With some of these suppliers you will enjoy purchasing without "wholesale" membership fees or minimum orders.

A portion of the companies under the wholesale inflatables umbrella rent larger items such as moon walks and slides for picnics, fairs, reunions and so on. If the cost of buying and storing a large inflatable play site is too much for the pocket book at this time, consider renting from one of the professional representatives at the buy/rent companies. With prices that range from a few hundred dollars to $3,000 or more (depending on complexity and size), renting can be a good option.

Some suppliers have major factories overseas (primarily in China) while maintaining sales offices in various cities around the globe. These horizontally organized wholesale firms often stock units by the hundreds, preferring to have in-house sales as well as in-house repair and installation professionals. For direct purchases, drop-shipping is a standard service. Shipping costs on these large items can run about $8 to $10 for orders up to $100, while purchases over that amount will usually have a shipping charge figured when the order is place.

Other companies narrow their focus to rental/start-up, providing inventory and experience to help entrepreneurs succeed in their own business of renting wholesale inflatables. Many companies no longer provide a printed catalog, preferring not to get involved in the cost of such an item because the product list changes so quickly in the wholesale industry. As one major supplier emphasized, the printed catalog would probably be outdated before it arrived at the customer's mailbox.

Another tip: Some of the broker's or distributors in the wholesale inflatables business cannot guarantee availability of a popular item because these companies do not have their own inventory. Others are closeout/liquidation companies who buy unsold or unwanted items when they become available from large retailers or rental companies that go out of business. Be sure to check availability of a product before promising friends, family or employees that their favorite moonwalk or slide will be available.

Pay particular attention to the manufacturer's suggested retail price, so that you can compare what your wholesale or discount cost with that figure. In some cases, the margin (difference) will be significant and allow resellers or rental companies to realize an excellent profit. It would be good to ask at the start if the wholesale inflatables supplier you are working with is a "wholesale only" company or if individuals can benefit from discounted prices. Make sure your inflatable includes blower, tarp, stakes and repair kit. If you are getting started in the inflatable rental business, or already have an established company – wholesale inflatables suppliers provide everything you need to make your business a success.

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