Stock confirmation before payment. A supplier who takes your money and then checks the warehouse will cost you time at the worst moment.
Compliant invoicing. Every order should come with an electronic tax invoice that your accountant can process without a follow-up call.
One contact for stationery and electronics. Splitting toner, paper and devices across suppliers means three deliveries, three invoices and three people to chase.
Clear VAT treatment. Quotes that do not say whether VAT is included are not comparable.
A bulk and contract path. If you run tenders or supply contracts, the supplier should accept your KRA PIN and delivery terms up front.
Delivery you can plan around. Agreed zones, fees and dates, in writing, with every quote.