Where general contractors buy
General contractors set up accounts with a lumber yard and specialty distributors, and let subs buy their own materials.
| Supplier | Type | What their own site says | Pro program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Builders FirstSource | Distributor | Calls itself the nation's largest supplier of structural building products to pros for new construction and remodeling. | Ask at the counter |
| ABC Supply | Distributor | Roofing, siding, gutters, windows and doors, from steep-slope shingles to rain gutters, guards and downspouts. | Ask at the counter |
| ABC Supply Interiors (formerly L&W Supply) | Distributor | Interior building materials with over 270 branches nationwide. | Ask at the counter |
| The Home Depot | Retailer | Calls itself the world's largest home improvement retailer, with more than 2,300 stores across North America. | Pro Xtra |
| Lowe's | Retailer | Runs MyLowe's Pro Rewards for small and mid-sized pros, with points from the first dollar spent. | MyLowe's Pro Rewards |
From each supplier's own site on the date in the sources; call your branch before you plan around it.
Your counter list
The items general contractors buy every week, from the van stock on our tools list. Ask each supplier for a price on these first; they decide which account saves you the most.
| Item | Why it is on the list |
|---|---|
| Caution tape, cones and signs | Site safety |
| Fasteners and adhesives | Small fixes |
| Floor protection and plastic | Occupied homes |
| Punch list tape and markers | Closeout |
For the first order, price the starter kit too: laser level and tape measures; cordless drill, impact driver and circular saw; multi-position ladder; moisture meter; non-contact voltage tester; job site first aid kit and fire extinguisher; tablet or phone for photos and logs; lockbox and job signs. Bigger purchases to price at a dealer or rental house: job trailer or storage container; dumpster account; temporary power and lighting; fall protection and guardrails.
Opening a trade account
Bring your business name, tax ID and license number, and a credit application if you want terms. The big-box programs are compared row by row on Home Depot Pro vs Lowe's Pro. For the tools themselves, the general contracting tools list has prices read on the makers' own sites (Little Giant, Fluke).
When supplier prices change
Update your general contracting price list the same week a supplier raises prices. In Koira, that price list is what your estimates are built from.
Sources
- Builders FirstSource: About, checked October 9, 2026
- ABC Supply: About and products, checked October 9, 2026
- ABC Supply Interiors: About, checked October 9, 2026
- The Home Depot: About, checked October 9, 2026
- Lowe's: MyLowe's Pro Rewards announcement, checked October 9, 2026
- OSHA: Fall protection, checked October 8, 2026
Last checked October 9, 2026. This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change and differ by state and city, so confirm with the agency named before you act.