OfficerImpersonator
Seattle-area Rounder
I used to order from A&S all the time. I figured lost, missing, or long-forgotten orders were part of the BMW motorcycle universe. Then I discovered Max BMW, and found out that an online BMW parts fiche could be connected to exemplary customer service. Randy and Drew in the online parts department at Max let me know when something I've ordered needs to come in from Deutchland or will be delayed for some other reason.
Sure, it's a longer distance to ship stuff, and thus it takes a bit longer for parts to arrive, but I value customer service, the ability to get an answer from either Randy or Drew via email or the telephone within 24 hours, and the perception that Max has more stuff in stock more often than A&S over a couple thousand miles less distance.
I've continued to buy a few unique items from A&S, but I've shifted the lion's share of my business to Max as they know how to provide customer service.
Sure, it's a longer distance to ship stuff, and thus it takes a bit longer for parts to arrive, but I value customer service, the ability to get an answer from either Randy or Drew via email or the telephone within 24 hours, and the perception that Max has more stuff in stock more often than A&S over a couple thousand miles less distance.
I've continued to buy a few unique items from A&S, but I've shifted the lion's share of my business to Max as they know how to provide customer service.