Batteries

Find the best battery suppliers for industrial batteries, replacement batteries and rechargeable batteries
By Patricia Cole, Independent Business Writer There are two main industrial battery types: primary and secondary. Primary batteries are not rechargeable and secondary batteries are either recharged or regenerated. There are also lead acid industrial batteries, reserve industrial batteries and lithium batteries. Lithium batteries are either primary or secondary and are most often used as back-up power for electronic equipment. Non-standard industrial battery examples are prismatic cells, coin or button cells, and sachet cells (a newer packaging design where the hard casing has been replaced by flexible foil packaging). Battery makers generally specialize in a category of batteries.

Finding information about batteries and battery manufacturers or battery suppliers has never been easier. Here are some ways to purchase batteries:

1. Shop online with battery makers.

2. Buy batteries through auctions.

3. Work with local distributors who represent specific makers of batteries or categories of batteries.

Save time and money by shopping online battery suppliers

There are websites devoted to every battery type and source. Some battery makers require that you sign up on their website before they provide information about their products, but if that doesn't suit you, there are many websites where you can buy batteries without registering.
Try:  Battery Mart has an easy-to-use chart that lists batteries by battery manufacturers, type or function. Powerstride Battery has been in business since 1926 and distributes batteries and battery-related products for automotive, commercial, industrial, golf, RV, motorcycle, ATV, marine, telecommunications, and high technology markets worldwide. Global Spec, an engineering search firm, offers a complete a listing of battery suppliers for nearly all industrial battery types listed by their specifications. They are also a good source for detailed product information and definitions. However, they do require registering before using their website.

Buy batteries through auctions online

If you are looking for batteries for a specific application, for example, laptops, cell phones, and battery chargers, find a good deal at specific product online auctions. Some auction websites require that you sign in or join before you can view the products from the battery makers they represent.
Try:  Overstock.com lets you review products without signing in unless you want to purchase. They can save you 20-75% on more commonly used smaller batteries. Save money by buying specific batteries this way, but be prepared to move quickly because items sell fast.

Find local distributors for battery manufacturers

Nationwide companies offer a complete range of batteries from small to large industrial batteries, including non-standard industrial batteries and a local contact to work with. Because the Internet has become so adaptable for online purchasing,there is only one large industrial battery distributor that meets a wide range of battery requirements and can refer you to one of their distributors.
Try:  Thomas.net is a national supplier for industrial batteries. Their website can connect you with a distributor or supplier nearest you based on your industrial specifications.

• Have the right specifications for the batteries you need.
• Plan ahead for your battery purchases. This allows you to shop competitively between several makers of batteries and find the batteries that are best for your company.