How to Get a Trade Account for Interior Design
Trade accounts are a must-have for interior designers who want discounted access to exclusive designs, along with financial benefits from selling the designs to their customers. If this sounds tempting to you, you should start by learning how to get a trade account for interior design.
Spoiler alert: it is not as hard as you might think. With adequate preparation and our tips and tricks, you can have your own trade account in three easy steps. Without further ado, let’s get you closer to enjoying the benefits of having a trade account as an interior designer.
How to Get a Trade Account for Interior Design in Three Easy Steps
Getting a trade account for interior design is quite easy and offers a wide range of advantages. You can get a trade account in just three steps. You need to:
- Gather the necessary documentation
- Find a vendor and fill out an application
- Wait for application approval and set up your account
Let’s explore in detail how do you apply for a trade account for interior design and get access to exclusive “to the trade” offers for designers.
Gather the necessary documentation
Having all the required documentation on hand when you apply for a trade account will speed up the entire process.
What you will need depends on the vendor’s requirements. Generally, all vendors require proof of business. This can often be a VAT number, resale number, IRS number, or a business bank account.
Optionally, some vendors may require a commercial shipping address during the application process. Others will need you to fill out your business address, where they should ship the goods, when you set up your account.
Find a vendor and fill out an application
The next step on how to get a trade account for interior design is to look for a trustworthy vendor. In today’s digitally-led world, it is quite easy to find one that checks all of your boxes.
Perform an online search and find online platforms and directories dedicated only to trade-only vendors for interior designers. It’s important to be selective about which vendor you’ll go with. Every brand has different levels of product quality and business models.
When you find a vendor, go to their website and look for an application form to create a trade account. Most vendors have an online application form you can fill out directly on their website, while others might require you to contact them. This way they may ask for further information, so they can send you additional instructions.
Key components of a trade account application
Each trade account application can be different, but they all contain the following key components:
- Business information and description
- Business License or State Tax form
- Business website
- Place to upload the necessary attachments
- Legal and compliance information
Wait for application approval and set up your account
The approval process varies from vendor to vendor. Some might be able to check your application within a few days and provide you with a timely response. However, there are trade only sellers that might need one to two weeks to process your application before letting you open a trade account.
When you get approved, you get access to your trade account. From here on out, you can start setting it up. Additional information may be required from you, and you should answer any requests in full promptly. Finally, in most cases, the trade only vendor will contact you and share the terms and conditions of using their services.
What if your application is denied?
The majority of interior designers wonder what happens if the vendor doesn’t accept your application for opening a trade account. It rarely happens, but if you find yourself in such a situation, it is not the end of the world. You have various options at your disposal.
The most obvious one is to look for other vendors that will accept you. However, if you want to sell furniture or other goods from one particular manufacturer, you can contact their sales team and ask whether they have an affiliate program you can join. Once you prove yourself and your capabilities, there is a high chance you will eventually be accepted for a trade account the next time you apply.
Can I Get a Trade Account if I am A Beginner Interior Designer?
If you are new to the industry, don’t be discouraged. It is possible even for beginner interior designers to apply and get approved for a trade account. We advise you to demonstrate professionalism and commitment to your business, while showcasing your work and its quality. Besides preparing a solid application, you can also consider getting recommendations and references.
How to Apply for a Trade Account for Interior Design At PERRY Luxe
At PERRY Luxe, we offer our interior designers the highest quality furniture and window coverings. To gain access to our “to the trade” offers, you should simply fill out our online trade registration form. All you need to do is prepare a copy of your current resale licenses, fill out your information and answer a few simple questions regarding your intentions for selling our products.
Benefits of Having a Trade Account as an Interior Designer
Having a trade account is something every interior designer should consider because it offers a vast array of benefits. If you get a trade account, you will be able to enjoy the following advantages:
- Exclusive access to unique interior designer goods
- Discounted prices
- Ability to determine your profit margin
- Increased number of clients
- Competitive advantage and much more
Conclusion
Securing a trade account as an interior designer is a crucial step for accessing exclusive products, discounts and industry resources. If you want to enhance your business operations and build a compelling portfolio, follow the three simple steps on how to get a trade account for interior design.
Start by gathering the necessary documentation, then perform thorough research and file an application, so you can finally be approved to set up your trade account as an interior designer. At PERRY Luxe, we are happy to work with you and can’t wait for your application.
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