October 26, 2026

How to Buy PPE in Bulk: A 7-Step Checklist for Businesses

Buying PPE in bulk saves money, but only if what arrives is genuine, consistent and delivered on time. Use this checklist before you place a large order for gloves, masks, sanitizer or gowns.

1. Confirm the certification for each product

N95 respirators: look for a NIOSH approval number (starting with "TC-84A") and check it on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List.
Exam gloves: confirm they are FDA-compliant for medical use.
Isolation gowns: check the AAMI level (1 to 4) on the label or spec sheet.

2. Ask for spec sheets and test reports

A reliable supplier can share product specifications and third-party test results. For gloves, ask about thickness (mil) and pinhole quality (AQL). For masks, ask for filtration data.

3. Compare price per unit, not price per case

Case sizes vary. A case of 1,000 gloves at $70 costs $0.07 per glove. Divide the case price by the unit count to compare suppliers fairly.

4. Check minimum order quantities

Many products have a minimum order of 1 case, but some require more. Know the minimum before you budget.

5. Know where the inventory ships from

Inventory held in domestic warehouses ships faster and avoids surprise customs delays. Ask whether the product is in stock and when it will ship.

6. Plan usage and storage

Estimate how many units each employee uses per shift, then multiply by headcount and days.
Store gloves and masks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Rotate stock so older cases are used first.

7. Watch for red flags

Prices far below the market
No product documentation
Pressure to pay up front with no clear delivery date
N95s with ear loops or KN95s claiming NIOSH approval

How Wabii PPE vets suppliers

Every Wabii PPE vendor goes through a 6-step screening process to make sure products meet or exceed FDA compliance and testing standards. We use third-party testing labs and quality control inspectors, follow track-and-trace procedures, and hold inventory in warehouses across the U.S. and Canada. Learn more about Wabii PPE.