Online used diesel engine reseller

Independent garages, vehicle owners, van and campervan converters, and small fleet operators who want a cheaper alternative to a new engine.

You sell each engine for more than you paid, with the margin covering storage, packaging and carriage. Extras such as a short warranty or a fitting-kit bundle can raise the price.

• Basic engine and vehicle knowledge
• Accurate listings and record keeping
• Dealing with buyers and suppliers
• Careful negotiating

• Check you can show where each engine came from, and keep seller records to avoid handling stolen parts
• Consumer rights and trade warranties: decide your returns policy and what you promise on condition
• Fitting the wrong engine is a common cause of returns, so match engine codes carefully
• Dealing in scrap metal or waste may need a council licence or waste carrier registration, so check with your council and the environment agency
• Engines can leak oil and coolant, so check storage, handling and disposal rules
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus goods-in-transit cover

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how many engines you buy, your storage space, and your listing, shipping and insurance set-up.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on the engines you stock, your prices and how quickly they sell. The estimates assume at least about 10 hours a week.

Check you can show where each engine came from and keep seller records, to avoid handling stolen parts. Also check consumer rights and your returns policy, whether scrap or waste dealing needs a council licence or waste carrier registration, and insurance.