Frequently asked questions

We're a sourcing platform — not a store. You submit your requirement. We route it to our network of vetted suppliers. They respond with quotes. You compare and decide. A single entry point to multiple suppliers — no need to contact each one individually.

Yes. Submitting a requirement costs nothing and there's no obligation to purchase. You only engage when you see a quote you like.

Most major industrial automation brands — Siemens, Allen-Bradley, ABB, Schneider, Mitsubishi, Omron, Emerson, Honeywell, Yokogawa, Danfoss, Yaskawa, HIMA, Triconex, and more. If yours isn't listed, submit anyway — our supplier network may still have it.

It depends on the part. Common in-production models may get several offers. Rare or discontinued parts may get one or two. Either way, if nothing fits, you walk away — no commitment.

Yes. Every supplier goes through a credentials review before joining. We maintain records of their business information, operating history, and transaction data. Considering a supplier for the first time? Reach out to us and we'll share what we know.

That's exactly what the platform is built for. The parts listed online are a fraction of what our network can source. Send us the part number, brand, and quantity — we'll activate the network.

It depends on what the supplier has available. When you submit a request, you can specify your preference — new only, or open to used. Suppliers will indicate the condition in their quote. You choose based on your budget and requirements.

We require suppliers to be transparent about product sourcing. New Original items are authentic OEM products. For used or refurbished items, suppliers should explain the source and any reconditioning performed. If you have concerns about authenticity after receiving an order, contact us and we'll step in to mediate.

Yes. Most suppliers provide actual product photos. If a quote doesn't include images, ask the supplier directly — they'll typically provide them.

Click Get Quote in the top navigation bar, or visit the Contact page and fill out the form. Include the manufacturer, full part number, and quantity. The more detail you provide, the faster and more accurate the quotes will be.

Most requests receive a first response within 24 hours. If your need is urgent, mention it in your message and we'll prioritize.

Typically 30 days. Items with limited availability may have a shorter window. If a quote expires, contact us — we can often re-issue at the same terms if the part is still available.

No. You can request a single component or a volume order. Pricing reflects market availability at the time of quotation, not order size.

Once you accept a quote, payment terms are confirmed directly with the supplier. Common methods include wire transfer and Trade Assurance. Review the terms before remitting payment.

Yes. Your requirement is only shared with suppliers who can potentially fulfill it. It won't be posted publicly or shared with third parties. Your competitors won't know what you're sourcing.

Our supplier network spans multiple regions — primarily China, with some in Europe and North America. The shipping origin depends on which supplier has your part. Each quote includes the estimated transit time from the supplier's location.

Typical express shipping timeframes from supplier locations: Asia Pacific 2–4 working days, Europe 3–5 working days, North America 4–6 working days. These are estimates — customs clearance can add delay.

The buyer is responsible for all import duties, taxes, and customs fees. These are not included in the quoted price. Check with your local customs authority before ordering.

Yes. Once your order ships, the supplier provides tracking information. Most shipments go via DHL Express or UPS.

Note the damage when signing for the package and take photos. Then contact the supplier. Shipping damage claims are typically filed by the shipper (the supplier), who will arrange a replacement or refund. If the supplier is unresponsive, contact us.

Yes. We require all suppliers to provide a 12-month warranty on every order. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship present at the time of shipment. It does not cover damage from improper installation, misuse, or unauthorized repair.

Contact the supplier directly — you'll have their details from the quote and order confirmation. Most issues are resolved directly between buyer and supplier.

Contact us. We have the supplier's full information on file and will reach out on your behalf to help both parties connect.

Return policies are set by each supplier — confirm the terms when you receive a quote. As a general rule: if the supplier made an error (wrong item, defective), they cover return shipping. If you changed your mind (unused, within 30 days), you cover return shipping. Always contact the supplier for an RMA before sending anything back. Unauthorized returns may be rejected.

No. KY Automation is not an authorized distributor for Siemens, ABB, Allen-Bradley, or any other brand mentioned on this website. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. We operate as an independent sourcing platform — connecting buyers with a vetted network of qualified suppliers. This independence is what allows us to source both current-production and long-discontinued parts without the constraints of a single authorized channel.

We earn a commission from suppliers on completed orders. There is no markup added to your quote, no subscription fee, and no charge for submitting requests.

Supplier onboarding is not yet open to the public. If you're a qualified industrial automation supplier and would like to be considered, reach out — we'll keep your details on file and notify you when the program launches.