1) What are the benefits of ordering Chemicals through Sigma Aldrich on the E-Portal?
2) Do I have to use the ePortal to order Chemicals?
No, in many ways it is simply a replacement for phoning or faxing an order. However, it does offer the additional benefits mentioned above.
3) What do I do if an item does not appear in the online catalog?
The online catalog is very comprehensive and you may often see items appear online long before they appear in a paper catalog.
4) Does the Sigma Aldrich web site make a commitment for you?
No. First, check with your Business Manager to see if this is necessary. Should you need a commitment in our financial system, simply use Yale’s Custom Commitments web tool.
5) Who do I call for help?
Contact our Sigma Aldrich Sales Representative, Monika Natola at (800) 396-0803 X1802. For further assistance, you may also contact:
6) What do I do if I need my order by the next day?
Be sure to place your online order by 4pm to ensure next-day delivery. Note: orders including comments may not ship as quickly. Please call our Sales Representative with emergency orders if necessary.
7) What should I do if my department requires internal approval on an order that I place through Sigma Aldrich’s web site?
Leave the PO Number field blank under Step 2: Input your Purchase Order Information and be sure to include the e-mail address of the person approving your order in Step 4: Order Routing Information. Your order will be forwarded to that person and they will be responsible for approving and submitting your order.
6) How do I begin using Sigma Aldrich?
You can start using Sigma Aldrich by going to www.yale.edu/eportal and clicking on the link for Lab Supplies/Chemicals. On the following screen you will see a link for First Time Visitors. Please follow the instructions on that page regarding the self-registration process through START..
7) What is the best way to learn how to use Sigma Aldrich?
Training is not required to use the Sigma Aldrich online ordering web site. However, self-help is available on the E-Portal at www.yale.edu/eportal. Click on the Lab Supplies/Chemicals link and follow the steps outlined below before placing an online order with Sigma Aldrich:
8) Can I use a VIP Number when ordering online with Sigma Aldrich?
Yes, Sigma Aldrich will validate your VIP when you enter it into their system. Should you enter an invalid VIP number, you will be unable to complete your order.
9) How are VIP numbers entered?
Simply enter the seven digits following the letters “VIP”.
10) Can I use a Purchasing Card with Sigma Aldrich?
Yes, you can use your Yale Purchasing Card. As mentioned above, the Purchasing Card will enable you to use SWAP to reallocate funds if necessary. Also, you may prefer the way Purchasing card transactions look when reconciling your financial reports. However, if you elect to use a Purchasing Card as well as VIP numbers, you will need to set up two separate accounts with Sigma Aldrich.
4) Can I store credit card information online with Sigma Aldrich?
No. You must enter your credit card information each time you shop on line with Sigma Aldrich.
12) Can I save an incomplete order in Sigma Aldrich’s web site?
Yes. You can save an incomplete order in the Sigma Aldrich web for up to 90 days.
14) May I combine orders for shipping purposes?
No, you can only ship to one shipping location at a time.
15) Is there a dollar limit to online Sigma Aldrich orders?
Yes, the limit is $5,000 because you are ordering against a University-wide contract.
16) Are there any time-saving features for ordering frequently purchased items?
Yes, you can save ordering time by creating a Product Shelf.
17) Do I need to use a Requisition number with Sigma Aldrich?
No, you do not need to use a Requisition number. Sigma Aldrich will assign a unique order confirmation number that will enable you to track your order.
18) Can I use split-charging in Sigma Aldrich’s web site?
No. If you are using a VIP number as your method of payment, you will need to place individual orders for each set of charging instructions. If you are using a Purchasing Card as your method of payment, you can place one order and later go into the SWAP (Simple Web Allocation Process) Procurement web tool to reassign the charges to the appropriate account(s) quickly and easily.
20) What will my charges look like on my statements for Chemical orders?
P-Card charges for Chemical orders will look exactly like all other P-Card transactions. Orders placed with VIP numbers will be invoiced on a daily basis. These will appear as actuals when the invoice is paid by Accounts Payable. We are currently working on electronic invoicing with Sigma Aldrich and will inform you of any changes in this information in the future.