Wafers

I haven't used them as much as FedEx, UPS, or USPS, but the few times I have, they were friendly and there were no issues with the shipment.

Strengths: Customer Service, Shipping

Needs to improve: None

I've only received packages from them, but never used them to ship anything. I haven't had any issues receiving packages from them, but I do wish they would be more descriptive about the location of the shipment.

Strengths: Shipping

Needs to improve: Tracking system

Their tracking system does not get updated as quickly as FedEx, but they still get your packages from point A to point B.

Strengths: Worldwide Shipping

Needs to improve: Price

Their tracking system is exceptional compared to all the other major shipping companies, but their prices continue to drop my jaw whenever I request a quote.

Strengths: Worldwide Shipping

Needs to improve: Price

USPS is consistently the cheapest method of shipping anything from one destination to another. I have yet to use their global services, but their domestic prices can't be beat. The tracking system is archaic, but no one is perfect.

Strengths: Price

Needs to improve: Tracking System

Zebra label printers can handle high volume printing while maintaining quality.

Strengths: Label Printers

Needs to improve: None

Most computers I've used have Intel processors and I haven't had any problems to date.

Strengths: Processors

Needs to improve: None

As with all printers, toner is expensive, but the printers themselves work well.

Strengths: Printers

Needs to improve: None

They carry hardware components like fasteners (obviously), washers, nuts, and bolts along with tools, including trucks. Yes, Fastenal will sell you one truck or a fleet of trucks.

Strengths: Hardware Supplies

Needs to improve: None

Loctite is owned by Henkel. They offer a wide range of adhesives that have applications in just about everything. Their sales team is well-versed in their product line and can help you pinpoint which adhesive type will best fit your needs.

Strengths: Adhesives

Needs to improve: None

Most companies issue Dell desktops or laptops to their employees and the companies I've worked at are no exception. They're not the prettiest looking (of course), but they are solid computers without the extra baggage of unwanted software. It also helps that they are reasonably priced.

Strengths: Cost efficient laptops and desktops

Needs to improve: Nothing out of the ordinary

I've worked with CleanCut at one company and they impressed me with their dedication and quick turnaround. Of course they will charge you a nice shiny dime to make the initial die, but afterwards, they will work with you to minimize cost if you end up having to alter it. I felt like the people working there treated me as a team member rather than an annoying customer.

Strengths: Die Cut, Pad Printing

Needs to improve: None

Having used Fluke multimeters along with other brands at various companies, it is clear that Flukes are more robust and sturdy. Maybe it's the housing for the unit, but Fluke units seem to be made to a higher quality, but they do cost more.

Strengths: Multimeter

Needs to improve: Price

I guess we have to say goodbye to 1,100 stores soon, but honestly, I don't think that's a big loss considering that they've fallen from their throne. The stores don't seem to carry that many items and the workers aren't that knowledgeable.

Strengths: Actual stores

Needs to improve: Little inventory

When we become successful, we tend to forget all the people that we there to help us along the way--our mom, our dad, our TI. Yes, Texas Instrument calculators have been an integral part of my job. I trust it and rely on it. My TI is my brain when I've left it at home.

Strengths: Calculators

Needs to improve: None

If you're lucky, they'll have a local store, but if not, it's just as good to order from them over the phone and have the item shipped to you.

Strengths: Huge inventory of general electrical equipment and components

Needs to improve: None

Henkel owns Loctite, which happens to be one of the best lines of adhesives out on the market. Their products are applicable to a wide range of applications, and their reps are helpful in figuring out which line will be best for your application.

Strengths: Adhesives

Needs to improve: None

Purchasing from Fry's can be a great experience until you need to return something. It's great that you can walk into the store and peruse through the aisle for what is needed, even try looking online first and reserving it for store pickup. You'll most likely be happy with most things that you buy there--nothing special, until you have to return something. Then, get your game face on because they're not going to take it back without a fight.

Strengths: Computer electronics

Needs to improve: Return policy

Dewalt power tools are high quality and robust, but their prices reflects that.

Strengths: Power Tools

Needs to improve: Price

I've used a wide range of wireless keyboards and mice from Logitech and for the most part, they get the job done. On occasion though, you can get a dud and in which case, hopefully the store you bought it from is willing to exchange it free of cost (amazon is great for that). They offer a wide range of products that fit most budgets--from $10 to $100+. Some are obviously better than others, just have to find your type.

Strengths: Wireless keyboards and mice

Needs to improve: Inconsistent quality