The auto parts industry in South Africa is a lucrative market due to the high demand for vehicle maintenance, repair, and customization. you can have a professional online store to sell OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts. Before setting up your store, decide on your business model below we have types of model you can choose from.

Types of Auto Parts Business

1. Retail Auto Parts Store
2. Wholesale Auto Parts Supplier
3. Dropshipping Auto Parts Business
4. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts Business
5. Aftermarket Auto Parts Business
6. Performance & Customization Parts Store
7. Recycled & Used Auto Parts Business
8. Auto Accessories Store
9. Mobile Auto Parts Delivery Business
10. Export Auto Parts Business

• Retail Auto Parts Store – Selling auto parts directly to consumers in a physical store or online.

• Wholesale Auto Parts Supplier – Supplying bulk auto parts to retailers, mechanics, and dealerships.

• Dropshipping Auto Parts Business – Partnering with suppliers to sell parts without holding inventory.

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts Business – Selling genuine manufacturer parts for specific vehicle brands.

• Aftermarket Auto Parts Business – Selling third-party parts designed to replace OEM parts, often at a lower cost.

• Performance & Customization Parts Store – Specializing in upgrades like turbochargers, exhaust systems, and body kits.

• Recycled & Used Auto Parts Business – Selling second-hand parts from scrapyards or dismantled vehicles.

• Auto Accessories Store – Focusing on non-essential car items like seat covers, LED lights, and infotainment systems.

• Mobile Auto Parts Delivery Business – Delivering parts directly to repair shops or customers’ locations.

• Export Auto Parts Business – Supplying parts internationally, particularly in high-demand markets.

Before launching your auto parts e-commerce store, ensure compliance with South African laws and regulations:

1. Register Your Business

CIPC Registration – Company Intellectual Property Commission

Register your business as a PTY Ltd, Sole Proprietor, or Close Corporation.

SARS Tax Registration – www.sars.gov.za

Apply for a Tax Clearance Certificate & VAT Registration.

Beneficial Ownership Compliance

Required by all registered businesses to comply with South Africa’s financial regulations.

BBBEE Certification (Optional)

Helps secure government tenders and build trust with corporate clients.

2. Compliance with Automotive Industry Regulations

NRCS Approval – www.nrcs.org.za

The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) ensures auto parts meet quality and safety standards.

RMI Membership (Optional) – www.rmi.org.za

The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) provides credibility for businesses selling vehicle parts.

ICASA Approval (For Electronic Auto Parts) – www.icasa.org.za

If selling electronics like GPS trackers, car audio systems, and alarms, you may need ICASA certification.

3. Central Supplier Database (CSD) Registration (For Tenders)

Register on CSD

Required to supply auto parts to government departments.

4. Setting Up the Auto Parts E-Commerce Store

With the Urna-Auto Theme, you will have a high-performance online store featuring:

• Category-based navigation (Engine Parts, Brakes, Suspension, Electronics, etc.)
• Year-Make-Model search functionality
• Integration with suppliers for automated stock updates
• Secure payment gateways (PayFast, Ozow, Yoco, PayPal, etc.)
• Shipping options (Courier Guy, Aramex, Fastway, etc.)

Key Features to Include in Your Online Store

Product Descriptions & Compatibility Guides

Clearly mention which vehicle makes & models the part is compatible with.

Customer Support & Returns Policy

Provide an easy returns/exchange policy for defective parts.

SEO & Digital Marketing Strategy

Use Google Ads & Social Media Ads to drive traffic.

Optimize for auto repair & spare parts keywords.

Click (here) for a live preview of the theme.

5. Finding Auto Parts Suppliers in South Africa

Local Wholesale & Retail Auto Parts Suppliers

AutoZone – www.autozone.co.za

Offers wholesale pricing for auto parts and accessories.

Goldwagen – www.goldwagen.com

Specializes in European car brands (BMW, VW, Mercedes, etc.).

Midas – www.midas.co.za

Provides a wide range of spare parts, lubricants, and car accessories.

6. Dropshipping Auto Parts Suppliers in South Africa

Dropstore – www.dropstore.co.za

Provides access to local auto parts suppliers for dropshipping.

Takealot Marketplace – www.takealot.com/sell

Allows sellers to list car accessories and auto spare parts.

uAfrica Dropshipping – www.uafrica.com

Integrates with local suppliers for automotive-related dropshipping.

7. Applying for Auto Parts Tenders in South Africa

You can apply for tenders if you want to supply auto parts to government or corporate clients.

Where to Find Auto Parts Tenders?

eTenders South Africa – www.etenders.gov.za

CSD Registration

National Treasury Tender Portal – www.treasury.gov.za

RT46 Government Vehicle Maintenance Tender – www.treasury.gov.za

Documents Required for Auto Parts Tenders

• CSD Registration Proof
• Tax Clearance Certificate from SARS
• BBBEE Certification (Optional but recommended)
• NRCS Approval (For regulated auto parts)
• Business Registration with CIPC
• Financial Statements & Supplier References

What will Online Biz Makers do for you?

• Register your e-commerce Auto parts store with CIPC.
• File Beneficial Ownership & Annual Return.
• CSD.
• Share Certificate.
• Guidance on product supply. 
• We will design your site with Urna-Auto
  theme.

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