Online car parts and accessories store

Do-it-yourself drivers and enthusiasts, plus some small garages, across your province or Canada.

You sell parts and accessories at a markup over wholesale cost. Helpful fitment guides and good product pages build repeat custom.

• Comfort with online selling tools
• Attention to detail on part numbers and fitment
• Writing clear product listings
• Customer service by email or chat

• Wrong-fit returns, so double-check part numbers and write a clear returns policy
• Product liability and commercial general liability insurance, especially for safety parts like brakes
• GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and provincial sales tax rules that vary by province
• Shipping costs on heavy or bulky parts, and cross-border duties if you import
• Home-based business rules from your municipality if you store stock at home

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your online store set-up and any small home stock you hold. Shipping costs on heavy or bulky parts are also worth planning for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your niche, product range and how well you list parts. Wrong-fit returns can eat into income, so check part numbers carefully.

Check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and provincial sales tax rules. Also check product liability insurance, especially for safety parts, cross-border duties if you import, and municipal home-based business rules.