[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
Every year, the number of customers who want to shop online increases. After all, it\u2019s easy, convenient, and often less expensive than in-store purchases. Dealership shoppers are no exception! Are you considering an online sales channel for auto parts and accessories?<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re not, you\u2019re leaving money on the table!<\/span><\/p>\n Selling auto parts online is the trend of the future<\/a> and a market opportunity that\u2019s expanding at a ridiculous rate.<\/span><\/p>\n Experts say that the future of automotive eCommerce is bright, and thousands of customers are now buying auto parts digitally. With such an insane potential to increase your dealership\u2019s profits, maybe you\u2019ve considered expanding to reach the online community.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Exciting Statistics About Selling Auto Parts Online:<\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”15px||3px|43px|false|false” border_width_all=”1px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n There are a TON of eCommerce solution providers available. You could sift through eCommerce providers ALL DAY trying to find the right one.<\/span><\/p>\n And guess what? They probably all claim to be the best.<\/span><\/p>\n Spork Marketing put together a complete list of auto parts eCommerce options<\/a>, along with tips for choosing a platform. Check it out!<\/span><\/p>\n The catch? How many are experts in selling auto parts?<\/strong><\/p>\n Selling auto parts online really can\u2019t compare to selling clothes, books, or jewelry. The online automotive industry has very specific needs, so it makes sense that you need a specific automotive-focused eCommerce solution, too.<\/span><\/p>\n Generic platforms just won\u2019t cut it. They can\u2019t offer you a reliable OEM catalog<\/a>, for one, and that\u2019s an absolute must when it comes to running a parts website.<\/span><\/p>\n Each year, the parts eCommerce market grows bigger, and you need to dominate the market while it\u2019s still young. To help you figure out which system is best for you and your dealership\u2019s success, we\u2019ve come up with this practical guide on how to find the right eCommerce solution to sell auto parts online.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve decided that selling auto parts online is a good fit for your dealership, take a moment to set some goals. This will help you choose a solution that can support your plans.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n How you run and operate your online parts business changes depending on whether you want to sell parts on a local or national level.<\/span><\/p>\n The national level may have a higher payout, but it\u2019s also much more competitive. This can also mean more time and effort to invest in staying at the top (but also a larger opportunity to make it big).<\/span><\/p>\n You also have the option of selling parts locally, with the help of an online storefront. If you\u2019re still unsure about all this online business, you might be better off targeting customers in your local area who already visit your website, and then expanding nationally once you get the hang of it.<\/span><\/p>\n Finally, other selling channels like eBay and Amazon have some great benefits<\/a>, too. No matter what you decide to do, find an eCommerce solution that can tailor its service to what you want. They should be able to meet your current goals and scale to meet your future goals, too.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.revolutionparts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/auto-parts-ecommerce-platform.png” alt=”image of parts to sell on ecommerce” title_text=”auto-parts-ecommerce-platform” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n If your website is down, you can\u2019t sell parts. Simple as that.<\/span><\/p>\n Website downtime will cut into your profits AND make your company seem unreliable and unprofessional. You need to have an auto parts website that customers can trust<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n The best parts eCommerce platforms will be completely transparent about your site uptime. In the rare case that something goes wrong, they should let you know when it happened, how long your site was down, and what caused the outage.<\/span><\/p>\n It\u2019s essential that the parts eCommerce solution you choose has a history of reliable service and a reputation for quick fixes on the rare occasion that your website does run into problems.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n If you run into problems while setting up or running your online storefront, you\u2019ll need someone to go to for personalized and effective support\u2014whether it\u2019s tech support, advice, or just a quick question.<\/span><\/p>\n An eCommerce solution with a strong support team can move things along quickly and efficiently compared to one that takes weeks to respond to a simple question.<\/span><\/p>\n Every vendor will claim they have first-rate support, but not all will deliver on the promise.<\/span><\/p>\n When you\u2019re looking at a platform, call other dealerships currently using the service and ask them what the support is really like. Or try calling the support line yourself just to see if they pick up!<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n If the customer has a poor experience on your website, they probably won\u2019t come back.<\/span><\/p>\n While browsing your options, ask the potential eCommerce solution platform for a demo. You can also look at other dealer pages powered by that solution to see their work firsthand.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Customer experience is incredibly important and often the bottom line when it comes to building up your business and selling more parts online. Keep a happy customer in mind while choosing your eCommerce solution.<\/span><\/p>\n Put yourself in the customer\u2019s shoes as you click through a sample website and \u201cmake a purchase.\u201d Remember that the more steps it takes for a customer to find and purchase the part, the more likely they\u2019ll give up on the sale.<\/span><\/p>\n Is the website frustratingly slow? Is it clear and easy to confirm that you\u2019ve found the part you need?<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n In recent months, parts stores have seen a HUGE increase in mobile purchases. Make sure the parts eCommerce provider can provide a great experience to all your buyers, whether they\u2019re on a smartphone, desktop, or tablet. As an added bonus, responsive designs can also boost your online visibility<\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n Not to mention Google\u2019s mobile-first indexing. With a higher priority in high-quality mobile-friendly websites, your parts business could fall behind if you work with the wrong parts eCommerce solution. (RevolutionParts customers don\u2019t have to worry! We build responsive websites that look great on all devices.)<\/span><\/p>\n \u2b50 RELATED: 10 Things the Best Mobile-Friendly Parts Websites Have in Common<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can check if your website is mobile-friendly using Google\u2019s Mobile-Friendly test<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.revolutionparts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/pageauto-screenshot_resized.png” alt=”Page Auto Group store powered by RevolutionParts” title_text=”Page Auto Group store powered by RevolutionParts” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Since the design and layout of the web page is the first thing a customer will notice, it\u2019s important to take this part into consideration. Customers should associate the site\u2019s appearance with your brand and the type of service you can provide them.<\/span><\/p>\n So you need to make a good impression.<\/span><\/p>\n A clean, modern, user-friendly, and professional design will make your website the preferred choice over others. Familiarize yourself with what the best auto part website designs have in common<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n At the same time, a lot of solution providers use the same template over and over for all the parts sites they power, without even bothering to change the colors or personalize it for you. You don\u2019t want your website to look like a carbon copy of someone else\u2019s, because that\u2019s just awkward.<\/span><\/p>\n The freedom to make adjustments by yourself can be a powerful thing, too. Some eCommerce providers make you manually request each change, and then you have to wait days or weeks for the adjustment to go through. It\u2019s much faster and easier if you can simply make the tweaks yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Some items need to be marked up more or less than others\u2014that\u2019s just common sense. When you sell auto parts online, you have a few options for setting prices on your online store. You can base it on an added percentage over the cost, or price it a little bit under.<\/span><\/p>\n Unfortunately, most eCommerce platforms force you to pick one pricing system over the other. A lack of pricing customization can cost you sales as some pricing methods make more sense<\/a> than others for certain categories of parts or accessories. If your eCommerce platform forces you to price every part using the same method, it can result in some serious losses.<\/span><\/p>\n Creating the right pricing table (pricing matrix)<\/a> is an extremely powerful way to make sure your prices are balanced. Otherwise, expensive parts skyrocket out of control, and cheaper parts sell too low to be profitable.<\/span><\/p>\n Here\u2019s what a pricing matrix might look like:<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.revolutionparts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/rp-pricing-matrix.png” title_text=”rp-pricing-matrix” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n If the eCommerce provider you\u2019re looking at only provides the basics and nothing else, you\u2019ll be hard-pressed to sell car parts online.<\/span><\/p>\n Even though the market is still fairly new and not many parts departments are online yet, it can still be a competitive world. Having a few nifty tools and techniques in your back pocket can be incredibly helpful when it comes to beating out the competition.<\/span><\/p>\n This can mean built-in marketing tools like XML sitemaps or drift marketing campaigns, or time-saving tools like email templates and label printers.<\/span><\/p>\n These may seem like the \u201cbells and whistles\u201d of selling parts online<\/a>, but they can give your parts website the edge it needs to stand out.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.revolutionparts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/8-keys-download-banner-2.png” title_text=”8-keys-download-banner-2″ url=”https:\/\/www.revolutionparts.com\/ebook\/the-8-keys-to-successfully-selling-oem-parts-online\/?utm_medium=revparts&utm_source=mkt:%20blog&utm_campaign=selling-online-20220106&utm_content=how-to-choose-the-best-automotive-ecommerce-platform&utm_term=pm” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” header_4_font_size=”28px” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||43px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”34px” header_3_font_size=”32px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n If you\u2019re currently using some online tools to reach your customers, picking an eCommerce solution that integrates well with what you already have is definitely a bonus. Some service providers may charge more if you want to integrate those tools, so watch out for added costs.<\/span><\/p>\n There are tools out there that can make selling auto parts online a million times faster, easier, and more successful. This can include shipping management software<\/a> which can automate most of the shipping process, like order fulfillment and customer notifications.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
Table of Contents<\/span><\/u><\/h4>\n
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Which eCommerce platform is best to sell auto parts online?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1. What are your goals for selling parts online?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Local vs National vs Both<\/span><\/h3>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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2. Is the parts website reliable?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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3. Are you getting enough support?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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4. What is the customer experience like to buy parts?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Customer Experience is Key<\/span><\/h3>\n
Think Mobile-Friendly<\/span><\/h3>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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5. Can you make the parts website YOURS?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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6. Can you set custom prices for the auto parts you sell?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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7. What tools are built into the software?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Questions to consider:<\/b><\/h4>\n
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8. Does the software easily integrate with tools you already use?<\/strong><\/h2>\n