Not starting an RC company. But have some interesting questions.

[Candyman]

OK, so I'm not starting an RC company. Maybe. I have tossed around the idea of being a mail order only RC distributor. I understand that this is a huge task to get off the ground. And I highly doubt I have the means or energy to do it. But it does bring up a simple question.

What would you guys like to see in a "one-stop" RC distributor? What do you think is lacking from the places we order now? What things do you like about the places you order from?

And for those of you who do have an LHS that you give you business to (which is the best thing for this hobby) what do you like and what don't you like?

Just trying to get a feel for what things could be improved.

 

[lykan]

Hrmm for me things that are lackign in other mail order shops.

Quick shipping. (it's hit or misss with most).
Order status and tracking online.
Easy to navigate.
Complete selection, a one stop.

Support. A lot of people buy online because it's cheaper. They don't realize you often miss out on is the support.

Easy to search with complete descriptions, and multiple pictures. If I am going to buy something without seeing it, I Want the next best thing.

A lot of people are willing to buy things at almost 1/2 again what they pay online to have it right now. I've had free spur gears coming in the mail. I still went out looking for a spur gear local. A free spur is worth less than one that cost $5 if I can have it now.

Another thing, impulse buys are more likely when you can hold something in your hand. I don't know how many times I have heard "it was just so damned cool looking i had to get it". Do your best to emulate that with pictures, and you will do well.

Those are just some random ideas I have been tossing around.

 

[mcvickj]

I have done a lot of business with Tower in the past and I have found each purchase to be hassle free. The usual part arrival time (for me) is 2 days. Their site lacks something. I am not exactly sure what. I do know the navagation could be improved. I have never had a problem with them updating order status or the tracking online. If there is a problem with tracking its the methods fault not the shipper.

Pictures pictures pictures. Did I mention pictures? I would like to have at least 4 or 5 pictures of what I would be buying. I know that seems like a lot and it would be a lot of time involved for the company but I think it would cut down on questions in the long run.

Maybe some type of comment section for each part so buyers can post about the part to let others know that it could work for a different RC. I know there could be issues with this but I think it would be a neat idea.

Maybe you could also add a FAQ section for each part. So if someone asks a question you can add it to the page of the part.

If the buyer still wants to ask a question every possible effort must be made to answer the question within 24 hours. This doesn't seem to be a problem with Tower. However this is a problem with Horizon. It takes them almost a full week before I can get an answer to a question about a product.

 

[El Pirata]

Tower has treated me great in everything I have purchased with the exception of site navigation/ When looking for parts I have to First go completely thrwough the duratrash stuff, then HPI, then a few others before I get to Kyosho. I would be easier to navigate at least by manufacturer.

 

[HumboldtBlazer]

these two companies have it right imo. They rock period. I have tried MANY online hobby shops and NONE had service and speed like this.

www.teamspeedster.com

www.rlhobbies.com