Alternator and starter delivery supplier

Independent garages, mobile mechanics, fleet maintenance shops and small repair businesses that want parts the same day.

You sell each unit at a markup over your wholesale cost. Many units also carry a core charge, which is refunded when the garage returns the old part. Regular garage accounts bring repeat orders.

• Knowing vehicle electrical parts and how to match them to makes and models
• Building relationships with garage owners and service managers
• Organised stock control and record keeping

• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, plus cover for carrying stock in your vehicle
• Core charges and warranty returns can tie up cash, so check supplier terms before you order stock
• Registering for GST/HST (and PST or QST where it applies) and keeping to your province's rules
• Check whether your municipality requires a business licence or allows stock storage at home
• Large garage chains and parts distributors compete on price, so aim for speed and service

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how much stock you hold and your vehicle setup. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many garages you supply.

Check commercial general liability and product liability insurance, plus cover for carrying stock in your vehicle. Also check whether your municipality requires a business licence or allows stock storage at home, and GST/HST registration (and PST or QST where it applies).

Estimates point to knowing vehicle electrical parts and how to match them to makes and models, building relationships with garage owners, and organised stock control. Check supplier terms on core charges and warranty returns, which can tie up cash.