Identifying fake and original power tools 

Based on our experience of running Nigeria’s foremost online power tools, hand tools, measuring tools and accessories distribution from Bosch, Makita, karcher in Nigeria in the past four years. Let me suggest and explain ways individuals and companies can spot and avoid purchase of fake tools in Nigeria. With almost no industry left untouched by the presence of counterfeits, consumers can be duped into buying poor quality imitations and left disappointed whether they are looking for Nike trainers, mobile phone accessories, a luxury watch or cosmetic products. In addition to being left out of pocket, some consumers are then stuck with goods which are made with potentially dangerous materials and carry real health and safety concerns.

Before we proceed to discuss how to avoid fake tools, let’s explore reasons and dangers of buying counterfeit tools. Typically prices of fake tools are really cheap compare to the genuine ones. This is because the entire process of manufacturing such tools did not pass through test and certification. And because they are not properly tested and approved for industry standard, some components of the machine like the motor is not as powerful, very short life span compared to the proper thing. Also the battery life is bad, or more described as tiny due to quality not being part of the making process. Safety is also not factored in the process of making fake tools.

The level of detail which goes into some counterfeit goods – the fake logo, labelling and packaging for example – can make it extremely difficult for consumers to distinguish between a convincing imitation and the real deal.

To quickly spot fake tools, do the following;

• Ask the seller for product part number or model number – with the product part number or model number you will be able to confirm approved specifications for machine through manufacturer’s website. With that in hand, you can easily check for possible discrepancy from what has been approved and what is being offered. for example Bosch GKF 550 0601 6A0 OPO
• Carefully Check the Label – fake tools comes with somewhat of hurriedly affixed logos or labels, if checked properly, logos or label might be turned upside down or poorly designed. If you notice some poorly designed logos or labels, just know that possibility for fake tools is high.
• Prices – if prices are too good to be true, be very careful. Some of tools manufacturers also have suggested retail prices for tools, and in Nigeria you can utilize our website  www,gibadi.com to check for prices for tools.
• Ask for Dealer Certificate – most tools manufacturers issue or list their dealers on own website. Before making your next purchase, ask the seller for his or her dealer or distributor certificate 
• Ask for Warranty – check the manuals or instruction about tools warranty, most tools brand in Nigeria offers between 1- 3 years warranty depending.
• Use your camera to scan the QR code - QR code is a type of barcode that can be read easily by a digital device and which stores information as a series of pixels in a square-shaped grid. QR codes are frequently used to track information about products in a supply chain and – because many smartphones have built-in QR readers – they are often used in marketing and advertising campaigns. It also helps in checking the originality of a product.

According to some counterfeit tools investigators, fake tools are more prevalent in the standard models like cordless combo kits, rotary hammers, hammer drills, grinders, polishers, jig saws, and drills.

And these counterfeit tools will not operate safely and when they malfunction, might not be serviceable.

Get your original power tools from Nigeria number one Bosch distributor gibadi.com