It's like everything else in life....if you don't do your homework and take the easy/lazy way out, it's going to cost you.
Like others, I always look at alternatives if there's going to be more than one warehouse involved. Usually, there is a way to get the good brands with a little selective part management.
Very occasionally, i find O'Reilly to be cost competitive. Bought a trans cable for a few cents more than Rock's price this week
Jegs and Summit are OK, but 3 days from Arlington TX to OKC for an in-stock item? Orders are picked fast and ready for shipment, but seems like their pickups take longer than others