Which supplier accounts does an HVAC company need to keep running after a sale?
List every supplier the crews use weekly, such as equipment distributors, parts counters and refrigerant sources, and confirm each account’s terms and whether it transfers. Prioritize the ones with credit terms or special pricing. Arrange for the supplier to approve or reopen the account before closing so trucks are not stuck without parts.
Start with the accounts payable list and sort suppliers by how often the company orders. The key ones are those that supply equipment, common parts and refrigerants, along with anyone who offers credit or contractor pricing. Ask the dispatcher or office manager too, since they know which suppliers are called every single day.
For each, ask what happens when ownership changes. Some will keep the account, others will require a new application and credit review. Ask the seller to make introductions, and note any supplier that refuses to continue. Include the less obvious accounts, such as fuel cards, vehicle service, uniforms and software subscriptions. They are easy to overlook until a truck cannot refuel or a dispatcher cannot log in on the first morning.
Check balances. Open invoices and credit limits matter, because a new owner may start with no credit history. Your accountant can help you see how much you will need in cash to cover purchases at first. Ask about rebates or volume pricing that might not carry over. Finally, think about backup. If one supplier is dominant, find an alternative before you need it. Make sure that crews know who to call and that purchase approvals are clear on day one. Your lawyer can help write supplier conditions into the purchase agreement.
Key takeaways
- Rank suppliers by how often crews depend on them.
- Ask each one what the account needs after ownership changes.
- Have a backup supplier ready before closing.
Related reading
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Sources
This answer is checked against primary sources. Links were last confirmed on the dates shown.
- 01Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentWhat are accounts payable?
- 02Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentHow to conduct due diligence when buying a business
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