"Buy local" is the mantra of businesses large and small, but it's hard to avoid the reality that electronics importers and exporters offer large numbers of cheap products. That's a temptation that is hard to avoid, and sometimes it's a good business decision to give in.

Whether price is your bottom line or your regular supply channels are dealing with a months-long backorder period, there comes a point where even the most doggedly local buyers must go looking for a consumer electronics distributor abroad. If you think that time has come for you, run through a quick mental checklist before you start shopping:

1. Can what you need be purchased locally? Keep in mind that buying locally eliminates waits and shipping costs.

2. If not, does a USA electronics importer have what you need? Domestic prices may sometimes be higher, but you can and should always negotiate.

3. If the answers to #1 and #2 are no, then it's time to start shopping electronics exporters in other countries.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy from your local wholesale consumer electronics distributor

Buying local may come with a slightly higher price tag, but that's usually compensated in other ways: immediate delivery, direct support and maintenance, generous return policies and a personal acquaintance with your seller that may help you negotiate better deals.

I recommend: Before you send your business and your dollars abroad, check to see if you can get your consumer electronics, wholesale or retail, from domestic vendors. Companies like Jameco manufacture and distribute consumer electronics right here in the United States. Tripp Lite offers a variety of products as an importer of consumer electronics.

Keep your consumer electronics wholesale purchases in this country

Even if you can't buy locally, try to keep it within the country as much as possible so that you're contributing directly to the economy. This way you can also avoid the hassle of currency conversions and long waits and hassles as your merchandise clears customs--someone else takes care of that. When you deal with USA based importers you are getting a product that was produced in another country but the company that is selling it is based and conducts business in the USA.

I recommend: Electroline Electronics is one of the many importers of electronics located in the USA. Exocov Purchasing specializes in linking up USA importers and exporters.

Find a USA electronics importer to meet your needs

If you've run out of local options, shopping with global electronics importers and exporters may be your last best option. The good news is that a number of them are based in the United States, so you can still keep a portion of your business close to home.

I recommend: Taxan is one of the companies that specializes as consumer electronics importers & exporters by material traded and country of origin. Impulse USA offers a solid choice amongst the various wholesale electronics exporters and suppliers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before making any large electronics purchases, check to see whether your current electronics are capable of performing the task you were about to buy for. Whether it's a matter of a few office machines or a large order you were planning to resell, multifunctionality and using your equipment to the fullest are critical points for both buyers and sellers.