8 Best Ball Bearing Brands for Reliable Performance in 2025

Here are the best 8 ball bearings brands for 2025:

1. SKF Group
2. Schaeffler Group (FAG & INA)
3. NSK Ltd.
4. NTN Corporation
5. Timken Company
6. KOYO
7. Nachi
8. TFL Bearing

Each ball bearing brand brings something special to the table. SKF and Schaeffler lead in smart wheel bearings designed specifically for electric vehicles. NSK and NTN focus on high-precision ball bearings for robotics applications. Timken stands out in heavy machinery with its durable ball bearings. TFL Bearing are also well-known for cost and supply chain advantages. These manufacturers offer quality, innovation, and strong reputations in the ball bearings market. Check out the table and chart below for a quick overview of their strengths.

Brand	Key Innovation & Quality Features	Reputation & Market Focus
SKF Group	Investments in predictive maintenance, digitally integrated ball bearings systems, focus on renewable energy and EVs	Global leader with strong presence in Europe, North America, Asia; technical edge in offshore wind and smart factories
Schaeffler Group	Wind turbine-specific ball bearings, automation solutions, strong R&D pipeline	Leading in Europe, strong ties with German OEMs, expanding aerospace and industrial automation verticals
NSK Ltd.	AI-enabled monitoring, miniaturized ball bearings technologies, high-precision components for robotics and medical equipment	Dominant in Japan, expanding in Southeast Asia, known for high-precision and long lifecycle ball bearings
Timken Company	Focus on mining, heavy machinery, defense; expanding renewable powertrain ball bearings applications	Strong North American footprint, relevant in infrastructure sectors
NTN Corporation	Strong aftermarket network in Asia-Pacific, automotive and railway demand, entry into hybrid mobility ball bearings	Growing presence in Asia-Pacific, aiming for higher-margin sector expansion
TFL Bearing	Provide complete range of bearing models, offering more suitable options at lower prices — making procurement more accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises.	Leveraging inventory and supply chain advantages to promptly respond to customer needs from around the world.

Key Takeaways

• Top ball bearing brands like SKF, Schaeffler, NSK, NTN, Timken, KOYO, Nachi, and TFL lead the market with unique strengths and innovations.
• Choose bearings based on your machine’s needs such as load capacity, speed, environment, and precision to ensure safety and performance.
• High-quality brands offer durable, long-lasting bearings that reduce downtime and improve machine reliability.
• Innovative features like sensors, smart coatings, and digital monitoring help prevent failures and extend bearing life.
• Consider brand reputation, warranty, and local support to get fast delivery and reliable customer service.

Selection Criteria

When you look for the best ball bearing brands, you want to know what makes one stand out from another. Here are the main things you should check before you choose.

Quality Factors

You want high quality and high-performance bearings that last a long time. The best brands test their products for durability, so you can trust them in tough jobs. Here are some important things to look for:

Factor	What It Means	Example
Load Capacity	How much weight the bearing can handle	2500 lbs
Speed Rating	How fast the bearing can spin	5000 RPM
Temperature Tolerance	The range of temperatures it can work in	-20°F to 250°F
Material Composition	What the bearing is made of	Stainless steel
Sealing Type	How well it keeps out dirt and water	Rubber seals
Warranty Period	How long the brand promises to fix or replace it	5 years

You should also think about the bearing’s life cycle and how it performs in rotating equipment. These factors help you get the most out of your investment.00

Innovation

Brands that lead in innovation give you more than just basic bearings. They offer high-performance bearings with smart features like sensors or special coatings. Some brands use new designs that make installation faster or extend the warranty. You might see bearings that work better in extreme environments or use software to track performance. This means you get better safety and less downtime.

• Look for:
  • Sensors and software for monitoring
  • New materials for extra durability
  • Faster installation and longer warranties

Reputation

You want a brand you can trust. Good reputation means happy customers and strong support. Top brands offer great customer service, fast delivery, and clear safety standards. They also have a history of meeting technical specs and following rules. When you pick a brand with a strong reputation, you know you’re getting high quality and durability.

Tip: Always match the brand’s strengths to your needs—like load, speed, or environment. This helps you get the right bearing for your job and keeps your equipment safe.

Top Bearing Manufacturers Overview

Industry Leaders

When you look at the world of bearings, a few names always stand out. The top bearing manufacturers—SKF, FAG/Schaeffler, NSK, NTN, Timken, KOYO, Nachi, and TFL—lead the way. These companies set the standard for quality and reliability. You see their products everywhere, from car wheel bearings to wind turbines and even aerospace engines.

What makes these bearing manufacturers special? They hold strict certifications like ISO 9001 and AS9100. These show you that their ball bearings and wheel bearings meet tough safety and quality rules. Many of these brands also focus on making their products lighter, stronger, and better for the environment. For example, Schaeffler and SKF design recyclable wheel bearings that help reduce waste. NSK works hard to protect the planet by using new motion and control technologies.

You can find these top bearing manufacturers in almost every country. They have factories and sales teams all over the world. This means you get fast delivery and local support, no matter where your business is.

Did you know? Global bearing suppliers like these invest a lot in research and staff training. That’s how they keep bringing you new and better products.

Market Trends

The world of bearing manufacturers keeps changing. Right now, you see a big push for smarter, greener solutions. Top bearing manufacturers invest in digital tools, like sensors for predictive maintenance. These tools help you spot problems in wheel bearings before they cause trouble.

Here’s a quick look at what these companies focus on:

Manufacturer	Focus Area	Growth Opportunity
NSK	Electric vehicles, smart factories	Expanding in mobility and automation
Timken	Wind power, rail, software	New factories in Latin America
Nachi	Machine tools, high-speed spindles	Smart factory alignment in Japan

You also notice more demand for ball bearings that last longer and use less energy. Many bearing manufacturers now work with startups to create new materials and digital tech. They want to meet strict rules for safety and the environment. As industries like automotive and aerospace grow, these top bearing manufacturers keep leading with innovation and strong support.

1. SKF

Overview

SKF stands out as one of the most trusted names in the world of bearings. You see their products everywhere, from cars to wind turbines. SKF designs and manufactures high-performance bearings for many industries. Their engineers focus on solving real problems, like misalignment and poor lubrication. With over 10,000 different lubrication and sealing options, you can always find the right fit for your needs. SKF’s solutions help you avoid early failures and keep your machines running longer.

Strengths

You get a lot of benefits when you choose SKF. Here are some reasons why many people pick SKF for their wheel bearings and other needs:

• SKF Explorer bearings give you a 15% boost in dynamic load rating, so they last longer and handle more weight.
• Tests show SKF bearings have a longer service life, lower friction, and less noise and vibration than most competitors.
• These bearings run cooler, with up to 11.5°C lower temperatures at top speeds compared to other brands.
• Customers say SKF bearings are reliable, help increase productivity, and reduce the risk of sudden breakdowns.
• You can often use smaller bearings because of their strength, which saves space and money.
• SKF’s advanced materials and smart designs make them a top choice for high-speed and demanding jobs.

Note: Experts and users often praise SKF for their innovation in materials science and their ability to deliver efficient, durable wheel bearings even in tough conditions.

Applications

You can use SKF bearings in many places. Here are some common uses:

• Automotive: You find SKF wheel bearings in cars, trucks, and electric vehicles.
• Industrial: Factories use SKF for conveyor belts, motors, and pumps.
• Renewable Energy: Wind turbines rely on SKF for smooth, reliable rotation.
• Robotics: When you need precision bearings for robots or medical devices, SKF delivers.
• Railways and Aerospace: SKF supports trains and planes with high-quality, long-lasting bearings.

No matter where you need strong, reliable ball bearings, SKF has a solution that fits.

2. FAG & INA (Schaeffler)

Overview

You might know Schaeffler for its two famous brands: FAG and INA. These brands have a long history in the bearing world. FAG started in Germany and became known for strong, reliable ball bearings. INA joined the group later and brought new ideas for needle and roller bearings. Today, Schaeffler combines both brands to give you a huge range of products. You can find their bearings in cars, trains, wind turbines, and even robots. Schaeffler keeps growing by making smart, energy-saving solutions for modern machines.

Strengths

When you pick FAG & INA, you get some big advantages:

• Wide Product Range: You can choose from thousands of bearing types and sizes.
• German Engineering: You get top-notch quality and tight tolerances.
• Smart Technology: Schaeffler uses sensors and digital tools to help you track bearing health.
• Eco-Friendly Focus: Their products help you save energy and reduce waste.
• Trusted by Big Brands: Many car makers and machine builders use FAG & INA bearings.

Tip: If you want bearings that last a long time and work well in tough jobs, you should check out Schaeffler’s options.

Applications

You can use FAG & INA bearings in many places. Here are some common uses:

1. Automotive: You see their wheel bearings in cars, trucks, and electric vehicles.
2. Industrial Machines: Factories use them in motors, pumps, and gearboxes.
3. Wind Energy: Wind turbines rely on these bearings for smooth, steady rotation.
4. Railways: Trains need strong bearings for safety and speed.
5. Robotics: Robots use small, precise bearings from INA for fast, accurate moves.

Application Area	Why Choose FAG & INA?
Automotive	Long life, low noise
Wind Energy	Handles heavy loads, resists wear
Robotics	High precision, compact design

You can trust FAG & INA to deliver reliable performance in almost any industry.

3. NSK

Overview

You probably see NSK bearings in many places. This brand comes from Japan and has a long history of making high-quality ball bearings. NSK focuses on precision and reliability. You find their products in cars, robots, and even medical equipment. NSK always looks for new ways to make their bearings last longer and work better. They use smart technology and strict quality checks. You can trust NSK if you want smooth and quiet operation.

Strengths

NSK stands out because of its science-backed approach. The company worked with Kyushu University to create a new way to predict how long a bearing will last. This method checks the size of the bearing and tiny impurities in the steel. NSK uses special tools to scan for these impurities. With this, they can double the lifespan of many types of bearings, like angular contact ball bearings and deep groove ball bearings. You get more value and less downtime. NSK also leads the market in corrosion-resistant deep groove ball bearings. Their products handle tough jobs and harsh environments. You get bearings that last longer and keep your machines running.

Tip: If you need bearings for high-speed or high-precision jobs, NSK gives you peace of mind. Their focus on durability and reliability means fewer breakdowns.

Applications

You can use NSK bearings in many industries. Here are some common uses:

• Automotive: NSK makes wheel bearings that help cars run smoothly and safely.
• Robotics: Robots need precise movement. NSK bearings help robots move fast and accurately.
• Medical Devices: Hospitals use NSK bearings in equipment that needs to be quiet and reliable.
• Industrial Machines: Factories use NSK for conveyor belts, pumps, and motors.
• Aerospace: Planes need strong and lightweight bearings. NSK delivers both.

Industry	Why Choose NSK?
Automotive	Smooth, quiet, and durable
Robotics	High precision, fast response
Medical Devices	Low noise, long life

You get a wide range of options with NSK. Their products fit many needs, from heavy-duty machines to delicate medical tools.

4. NTN

Overview

You might know NTN as one of the world’s top bearing makers. This company started in Japan and now sells products all over the globe. NTN focuses on making ball bearings that work well in many industries. You can find their bearings in cars, trains, and even wind turbines. NTN always looks for ways to make their products stronger and last longer. They use advanced materials and smart designs to help you get the best results.

Did you know? NTN has over 100 years of experience in the bearing industry. That means you get products built on a long history of quality and trust.

Strengths

When you choose NTN, you get some great benefits:

• Wide Product Range: You can pick from thousands of bearing types and sizes.
• Strong in Asia-Pacific: NTN has a big network in Asia, so you get fast delivery and local support.
• Advanced Technology: NTN uses special coatings and heat treatments to make bearings last longer.
• Great for High-Speed Jobs: Their bearings work well in machines that spin fast.
• Reliable Wheel Bearings: Many car makers trust NTN for their wheel bearings because they are tough and quiet.

Here’s a quick look at what makes NTN stand out:

Feature	Benefit to You
Special Coatings	Less wear and longer life
Fast Delivery	Less waiting time
High-Speed Performance	Smooth, quiet machines

Applications

You can use NTN bearings in many places. Here are some common uses:

1. Automotive: Cars and trucks need strong bearings for wheels and engines.
2. Railways: Trains use NTN bearings for safe and smooth rides.
3. Industrial Machines: Factories use them in motors, pumps, and gearboxes.
4. Wind Energy: Wind turbines need reliable bearings to keep spinning.
5. Agriculture: Farm equipment uses NTN for tough, dirty jobs.

Tip: If you want bearings that handle high speeds and heavy loads, NTN gives you a solid choice. Their products help your machines run longer with less trouble.

5. Timken

Overview

You probably know Timken if you work with heavy equipment or big machines. Timken started in the United States over 120 years ago. Today, you see Timken bearings in many industries around the world. The company focuses on making strong, reliable ball bearings. Timken engineers design products that handle tough jobs. You can count on Timken for quality and performance, especially when you need bearings for heavy loads or harsh conditions.

Did you know? Timken invented the tapered roller bearing. This changed how machines work and made them last longer.

Strengths

Timken stands out for several reasons. Here are some key strengths you get when you choose Timken:

• Durability: Timken bearings last a long time, even in rough environments.
• High Load Capacity: You can use Timken bearings for heavy-duty jobs. They handle big weights and strong forces.
• Advanced Materials: Timken uses special steel and coatings. This helps prevent rust and wear.
• Great Support: You get technical help and fast answers from Timken’s team.
• Innovation: Timken invests in new technology. You see smart bearings with sensors and digital monitoring.

Here’s a quick table to show what makes Timken special:

Feature	What It Means for You
Tough Materials	Less downtime, more work
High Precision	Smooth, quiet machines
Smart Technology	Easier maintenance

Applications

You find Timken bearings in many places. Here are some common uses:

1. Mining Equipment: Timken bearings help big machines dig and move heavy rocks.
2. Railways: Trains use Timken for safe and smooth rides.
3. Wind Turbines: Timken supports clean energy with strong, reliable bearings.
4. Construction: Cranes and bulldozers need Timken for heavy lifting.
5. Agriculture: Tractors and harvesters run better with Timken bearings.

Tip: If you need bearings for tough jobs or harsh weather, Timken gives you peace of mind. You get strength, support, and long-lasting performance.

6. KOYO

Overview

You might have seen KOYO bearings in many machines around you. KOYO comes from Japan and has been making ball bearings for almost a century. This brand is part of JTEKT Corporation, which is a big name in the world of industrial parts. KOYO focuses on making high-quality bearings that work well in many industries. You can find their products in cars, motorcycles, and even in big factory machines. KOYO keeps improving its technology, so you always get reliable and modern solutions.

Did you know? KOYO is known for its strong research and development. They often bring new ideas to the market before other brands.

Strengths

When you pick KOYO, you get some great benefits. Here are a few reasons why many people trust this brand:

• Wide Selection: KOYO offers many types of ball bearings. You can find the right size and type for almost any job.
• High Precision: Their bearings help your machines run smoothly and quietly.
• Durability: KOYO uses strong materials. Their bearings last a long time, even in tough conditions.
• Global Support: You can get KOYO products and help in many countries.
• Affordable Quality: KOYO gives you good value for your money.

Here’s a quick table to show what makes KOYO stand out:

Feature	Benefit to You
High Precision	Smooth, quiet running
Strong Materials	Long-lasting use
Good Value	Saves you money

Applications

You can use KOYO bearings in many places. Here are some common uses:

1. Automotive: Cars and motorcycles use KOYO for wheel bearings and engines.
2. Industrial Machines: Factories trust KOYO for conveyor belts, pumps, and motors.
3. Agriculture: Tractors and harvesters need strong bearings for rough work.
4. Electric Motors: KOYO bearings help motors run with less noise and heat.
5. Railways: Trains use KOYO for safe and smooth rides.

Tip: If you want a reliable bearing that fits your budget, KOYO is a smart choice. You get quality and support wherever you are.

7. Nachi

Overview

You might not hear about Nachi as much as some other brands, but it’s a real powerhouse in the bearing world. Nachi-Fujikoshi started in Japan and has been making ball bearings for over 90 years. You see Nachi products in many industries because they focus on quality and new technology. Nachi makes everything from the steel to the finished bearing, so you get full control over quality. This brand is known for its strong research and development. You get bearings that work well in tough jobs and last a long time.

Did you know? Nachi also makes robots and cutting tools, so they really understand how machines work.

Strengths

When you pick Nachi, you get some big advantages. Here’s what stands out:

• High-Quality Steel: Nachi uses its own steel, which means you get bearings that are strong and resist wear.
• Precision Engineering: You get smooth, quiet operation, even at high speeds.
• Great for Extreme Conditions: Nachi bearings handle heat, dust, and heavy loads.
• Innovation: Nachi invests in new designs, like special seals and coatings that keep dirt out and oil in.
• Global Support: You can find Nachi products and help in many countries.

Here’s a quick table to show what makes Nachi special:

Feature	Why It Matters to You
Own Steel Production	Better quality control
Advanced Seals	Longer bearing life
High Precision	Less noise and vibration

Applications

You can use Nachi bearings in lots of places. Here are some common uses:

1. Automotive: Nachi wheel bearings help cars and trucks run smoothly.
2. Industrial Machines: Factories use Nachi for motors, pumps, and gearboxes.
3. Robotics: Nachi bearings support fast, precise robot movement.
4. Agriculture: Tractors and harvesters need tough bearings for rough fields.
5. Aerospace: Planes use Nachi for lightweight, reliable performance.

Tip: If you want a bearing that can handle tough jobs and keep going, Nachi is a smart choice. You get strength, precision, and support wherever you need it.

8. TFL

Overview

TFL Bearing was established in January 2000 in Jinan, Shandong Province. Depending on the experience of its predecessors, TFL Bearing quickly emerged as a rising star in the bearing industry. Particularly in the market for electrically insulated bearings, TFL Bearing has leveraged its strong R&D capabilities to provide reliable alternatives for international customers. In addition to insulated bearings, TFL Bearing’s deep groove ball bearings and tapered roller bearings have also earned recognition from users around the world.

While maintaining a price advantage, TFL Bearing also ensures high product quality, making it especially popular among small and medium-sized enterprises.

Strengths

Customized Solutions: Tailor bearing solutions to unique needs. Services include design advice & custom specifications for your specific application.

• Lower MOQ: Minimum order quantity (MOQ) is lower, making your purchasing plan more flexible and reducing the pressure on inventory and budget.

• One-Stop Procurement: TFL Bearing has a rich product line of bearings. You can source a wide range of bearing models through our one-stop procurement service, eliminating the need to manage multiple suppliers.

• Cost Effectiveness: Competitive prices. Quality bearings meet international standards; interchangeable. Reliable, economical alternative. Lower costs, keep performance & value.

Applications

You can use TFL Bearings in many industries, including:

• Agricultural Machinery: TFL bearings endure harsh environments filled with dust, moisture, chemical fertilizers, and abrasive soil.

• Industrial Machinery: Industeial machinery demand exceptional accuracy and rigidity, TFL reliable bearings can ensure operates smoothly.

• Marine Industry: Marine shaft bearings must offer exceptional durability, the stainless steel and ceramic bearings of TFL can resist the corrosion of seawater.

• Robotics & Automation: The miniature bearing and super precision bearing offer high accuracy and compactness, ensuring precise positioning.

From miniature devices to heavy-duty applications, TFL bearing is the ideal bearing choice for various applications.

Ball Bearings Brand Comparison

Key Features

When you compare top bearing manufacturers, you notice each brand brings something special. Some focus on high quality and long life. Others offer high-performance bearings for tough jobs. You want to pick the right one for your needs. Here’s a quick look at what sets each brand apart:

Brand	Country of Origin	Key Features	Ideal Applications
SKF	Sweden	Innovative technology, high durability, precision manufacturing	Heavy industrial and automotive use
FAG	Germany	Exceptional resistance to dynamic loads	Industrial machinery, agricultural equipment
NSK	Japan	Precision engineering, vibration resistance	High-tech industrial applications
NTN	Japan	Enhanced wear resistance, modern sealing technologies	Agricultural and construction machinery
KOYO	Japan	Versatile, high resistance to variable loads, competitive pricing	Various industrial applications
INA	Germany	Technologically advanced, precision bearings, high resistance to varying conditions	Precision industrial equipment
Nachi	Japan	High-quality steel, advanced seals, great for extreme conditions	Automotive, robotics, aerospace

Tip: If you need high-quality bearings for heavy loads or high speeds, look at brands like SKF, FAG, and Nachi. For compact or precise devices, INA and NSK are great picks.

Advantages

You get different benefits from each bearing manufacturer. Here are some things to consider:

• Quality: SKF, FAG, and Nachi lead with high quality and long-lasting ball bearings. NSK and INA also deliver high-performance bearings for special jobs.
• Price: KOYO and NTN offer good value. You save money but still get reliable, high-quality bearings.
• Delivery: NTN and KOYO have strong networks in Asia. You get fast delivery and local support.
• Support: Timken and SKF stand out for technical help and after-sales service. You get answers when you need them.

If you want high-performance bearings for tough environments, SKF and Nachi are top choices. For affordable, high-quality bearings, KOYO and NTN work well. Each bearing manufacturer has its own strengths, so match them to your needs for the best results.

Choosing the Right Ball Bearings

Application Needs

When you pick ball bearings, you want to match the product to your job. Start by thinking about what your machine needs. Does it run fast? Does it carry heavy loads? Will it face water, chemicals, or dirt? Each answer points you to a different choice.

Here are some common needs and how they affect your decision:

• Heavy Loads: Look for bearings made from 52100 steel or tool steel. These materials have high hardness and strength.
• Corrosive Environments: Stainless steel or ceramic bearings work best. They resist rust and last longer in wet or chemical-heavy places.
• Precision: Robotics or medical devices need bearings with tight tolerances. Custom options may cost more but give you better accuracy.
• Budget: Standard bearings fit most jobs and cost less. Custom bearings cost more and take longer to make.

Check out this table to compare material choices:

Material Type	Hardness (HRC)	Corrosion Resistance	Cost Ranking (1=Low, 5=High)
52100 Steel	58-65	Low	2
440C Stainless	56-60	Moderate to High	3
Ceramic (Si3N4)	78-80	Very High	5
Polymer Housing	N/A	High	1-2

Tip: About 80% of jobs use off-the-shelf bearings. Only 20% need custom solutions.

Practical Tips

You can follow a simple checklist to make your choice easier:

1. Write down your main needs: load, speed, environment, and precision.
2. Check if a standard bearing meets at least 90% of your needs. If yes, go with it.
3. If you need special features, like exotic materials or unique shapes, consider custom bearings.
4. Think about your budget and delivery time. Standard bearings arrive faster and cost less.
5. Ask bearing manufacturers about warranty and support. Good support helps with safety and long-term use.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Factor	Off-the-Shelf Bearing	Custom Bearing
Cost	$10 – $1,000+	$300 – $2,000+
Lead Time	In stock to 2 weeks	3-8+ weeks
Precision	ABEC-1 to ABEC-7	Very high (custom grinding)
Warranty/Support	Manufacturer warranty	Shop or self-guarantee
Best For	Most standard jobs	Extreme specs or rare sizes

• Sometimes, you can mix standard and custom parts. For example, use a standard bearing insert with a custom housing. This saves money and still fits your machine.

Remember: Always match the bearing to your application. This keeps your equipment running smoothly and improves safety.

You’ve seen how top brands like SKF, FAG, NSK, NTN, Timken, KOYO, and Nachi lead the way in ball bearing innovation. Each brand brings unique strengths for industries like automotive, aerospace, and robotics. The market keeps growing, with East Asia and Europe as key hubs and new tech making bearings stronger and more precise. Think about your needs—load, speed, or environment—before you choose.

Looking for a cost-effective alternative without compromising on quality? TFL Bearings offers reliable, high-performance bearing solutions that can serve as direct replacements for all major brands—at more competitive prices and with faster delivery times. Contact us today for more details or to request a quote!

FAQ

What is the main difference between ball bearings and roller bearings?

Ball bearings use small balls to reduce friction. Roller bearings use cylinders instead of balls. You get smoother movement with ball bearings in high-speed jobs. Roller bearings work better for heavy loads.

How do I know when to replace my ball bearings?

You should listen for noise or feel for vibration. If your machine shakes or makes grinding sounds, check the bearings. You might also see heat or wear. Replace them right away to avoid damage.

Can I use any ball bearing for any machine?

No, you need to match the bearing to your machine’s needs. Check the load, speed, and environment. Use the brand’s catalog or ask for help if you are not sure.

Do I need to lubricate my ball bearings?

Yes, you do. Lubrication helps your bearings last longer and run smoother. Use the right grease or oil for your machine. Some bearings come pre-lubricated, but you still need to check them.

Which brand should I pick if I want fast delivery?

If you want fast delivery, look at TFL or KOYO. These brands have strong networks in Asia and often ship quickly. You can also ask your supplier about stock and shipping times.