Body parts sourcing for local bodyshops

Independent bodyshops, mechanics doing collision work, small fleet operators and mobile dent and paint repairers.

You buy at trade price and sell with a markup, or earn a margin or commission from the supplier. Fast turnaround and reliable delivery keep shops ordering from you.

• Reading part numbers and VIN details
• Building trade relationships
• Organised order tracking
• Clear communication under deadline pressure

• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Register for GST/HST (and PST or QST where it applies) once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check how your province treats resale
• Check that parts meet insurer requirements, since many insurers prefer certified aftermarket parts
• Returns, wrong parts and damaged freight can wipe out a thin margin, so agree return terms with suppliers first
• Check insurance for stock in transit and for any vehicle you use to deliver
• In Quebec, check French-language requirements for invoices and marketing

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your setup and how you handle delivery. Check insurance for stock in transit and for any vehicle you use to deliver.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on how many bodyshops you supply. Margins can be thin, and returns, wrong parts and damaged freight can wipe them out, so agree return terms with suppliers first.

Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence, and whether to register for GST/HST (and PST or QST where it applies) once you pass the small supplier threshold. Also check insurer requirements for parts and Quebec French-language rules.