I had no idea that a parts house would match Rock Auto! Dude, great tip!
I really prefer to support local businesses whenever possible even at a slightly higher cost. If we don't, our local stores will disappear and our only choice will be the mega big giant stores who don't care so much about us.
I consider myself very fortunate to have a
regional auto parts solution center (I call them a solution center because they are so much more than just a parts store) that was founded right in my local area. They are family owned and operated by customer focused people just like it should be. Just like (if you are older) you remember the world used to be. Their main warehouse is just a few minutes away from me so they always have exactly what I need right there. They also have a couple of machine shops that can do all kinds of work for you. It's a DIY guy's best friend
So, the thought process from their side when a guy like me walks in with a $500 list from Rock Auto and says "hey, I'd rather buy from you. Can you be competitive?" is pretty simple. Yeah, their advertised prices would be higher but they can sell that list to me at that price and STILL make money. Not as much but still make a profit and the sale doesn't walk out the door and buy from a competitor.
I have a friend that owns a roofing company and he put it like this ... Sure, I love to dine on a seven course meal, it's wonderful but seven small sammiches fill me up just the same.
I enjoy negotiating for all kinds of things. It's good practice. You'd be surprised at even just simple things like a hamburger can be negotiated. Worst that can happen is someone says no. That's okay too. If I say "breakfast hut across the street has 2 for $3 on their muffin sammich's, can you do that?" and lot's of times the answer is "sure, we'll do that for you" taking me 8 seconds to secure a 66% savings on my breakfast. That makes me smile lol.
