There are two types of oil dealers, Full Service Dealers and C.O.D (Cash On Delivery) or Discount Dealers. The differences between dealer types are quite significant and a decision to choose one over the other needs careful consideration. Here’s some information to help you compare.
FULL SERVICE ADVANTAGES:
- Premium Heating Oil & Tank Insurance
- Automatic Oil Delivery with credit terms
- 24 Hour Emergency Service
- Guaranteed Oil Supply
- Budget Programs & Credit Card Payments
- Maintenace / Service Agreements
- Sales, Service & Installation of all heating, cooling, hot water & air purification systems
- Extensive stock of parts and equipment
- Fleet with several oil delivery, service & installation vehicles
- On site sheet metal shop & fabricators
- Active Compliance & Safety Programs
- Fully licensed & insured
- No subcontractors
FULL SERVICE DISADVANTAGES:
- Oil may be a few cents higher than discounters
C.O.D ADVANTAGES:
- Cheap Oil
- No contractual obligation by either party
C.O.D DISADVANTAGES:
- Just oil. No additives added
- Cash on delivery. You have to be home at the time of delivery to pay driver
- Limited Operations and delivery vehicles
- Often consist of 1-2 employees
- No service or limited service often not by them but subcontract service out
- No technical or live operator to speak to
- Inadequate insurance coverage
