Parts & Vendors
How long do you keep defective parts for RMA?
As a shop owner, I've been grappling with how long to keep defective parts for RMA. Initially, I used to hold onto them for a few months, but I found that the clutter was getting overwhelming. I usually deal with various vendors, and their RMA policies can differ significantly. Some require you to return parts within 30 days, while others might give you up to six months. It's hard to keep track! Recently, I started using a simple inventory management software that helps me tag defective parts and set reminders for when they need to be returned. However, I’m curious to hear how long other shop owners keep defective parts before sending them back. Is there a standard practice I should be aware of?
2 Answers
I totally understand your dilemma! In my shop, I keep defective parts for RMA for about 30 to 45 days. This timeframe works well for most of my suppliers, and it allows me to stay organized. I label each part with the purchase date and the vendor's return policy, which makes it easier to manage. If I haven't returned a part within that timeframe, I usually document the reason and decide whether to keep it for potential repairs or simply discard it. Having a clear workflow like this has really helped reduce clutter in my workspace.
I have a different approach. I keep defective parts for up to 60 days, but I make sure to check each vendor's specific return policy. I also take advantage of the 'defective' tag in my inventory management system to flag parts that need to be returned. I find that keeping them a bit longer gives me peace of mind in case I need to reference them for warranty claims or if a customer has questions. Just make sure you have enough space to store them without it becoming a mess!