It does not matter what industry you work in. Almost everyone has had a message on LinkedIn from a factory in China wanting to sell direct. Sometimes it is a cold email, or even a WhatsApp message out of the blue. The offer always sounds appealing - cut out the middleman and make a big saving.
On the surface, it looks like a simple way to get what you need for less. The images are impressive, prices are low, and the factory claims to ship worldwide. But if you have been in the ground protection business for any length of time, you know there is a lot more to consider than clicking ‘order’ and waiting for your delivery.
Price Is Only Part of the Story
Cost always matters, but it is never the whole picture. When you buy from a reputable company like GroundGuards, you are not just buying a mat. You are buying years of research, real-world knowledge, and experience built up on live sites. Our products are tested, refined, and proven in tough UK conditions.
When you buy direct from a factory, there is no guarantee you will get the same quality. The material could be different, the finish could be poor, or the product might not be up to the job. Many factories can promise you the earth, but unless you know exactly what you are buying, you are taking a risk with every order.
What Happens When Things Go Wrong
It is easy to imagine everything going right, but the real question is what happens when it does not. If your shipment is late, arrives damaged, or the quality is not as described, you may find yourself with no support and no solution. Sorting problems across time zones, with language barriers and shipping complications, can be a headache. You could end up with unusable mats, missed deadlines, and jobs on hold.
With GroundGuards, help is always available. If there is ever a problem, we sort it quickly. Our reputation depends on making sure you are happy, and you can speak to a real person who understands your project.
Experience That Matters
We have spent years finding out what works and what does not. From testing plastics to understanding how mats behave under heavy plant and in bad weather, we know our products inside out. We can tell you which mats will last, which are best for different jobs, and which ones to avoid. This knowledge does not come from a catalogue or a sales pitch. It comes from real sites and real customer feedback.
Reliable Support and Stock
Working with GroundGuards means next-day delivery from UK stock, help with project planning, and advice on installation. There are no language hurdles, no overseas paperwork, and no waiting weeks for a replacement if something is wrong. You know exactly where your mats are coming from and who to speak to if you need help.
Protecting Your Reputation
Choosing a reputable supplier protects your own reputation as well as your site. You know the mats will do the job, and you have back-up if needed. You cannot put a price on peace of mind.
The Real Value of a Trusted Partner
Buying direct from a factory in China might seem like a shortcut, but the risks and hidden costs soon add up. When you work with a trusted supplier like GroundGuards, you get quality, support, and experience that simply cannot be matched by a cold LinkedIn message.
If you want honest advice on ground protection, or you want to see why our mats are chosen by professionals across the UK, get in touch. We are always here to help, and we stand by everything we supply.
