A vendor is an individual or entity that sells goods to customers, establishing long term relationships and recurring business. A contractor is an individual who provides specific services in the short term with defined criteria and milestones.
The general rule is that an individual is an independent contractor if the person for whom the services are performed has the right to control or direct only the result of the work and not what will be done and how it will be done. If you are an independent contractor, then you are self-employed.
A vendor contract (otherwise known as a vendor agreement) is a business contract between two parties covering the exchange of goods or services in return for compensation.
An independent contractor agreement is a contract that lays out the terms of the independent contractor's work. It covers the contractual obligations, scope, and deadlines of the work to be performed. It affirms that the client and contractor are not in an employer-employee relationship.
Nature of Relationship: Contractor relationships are project-specific and time-limited, whereas vendor relationships tend to be ongoing, providing a consistent supply of goods or services. Independence vs. Partnership: Contractors operate independently, managing their own resources and working towards project goals.