It is common for many automotive aftermarket companies to work with one or more distributors to access the parts and fitment data they need for their customers.  But it tends to be more the exception than the rule that they have built integrations with their distributors to allow them to automate business processes. Most of them didn’t feel the need to start because the volume of business wasn’t there.  So they did tasks with their distributors manually. They download CSV files to update product and fitment data from their distributor and upload the data to the store.  Orders are sent to the distributor via email or via the distributor’s partner portal for fulfillment.  But as the business grows, this process doesn’t scale. Automotive aftermarket companies need real-time access to their distributor's data and systems to stay competitive. 

The great thing is that distributors want their partners to succeed.  Most if not all have published API that allows their partners to create a direct integration into their order processing and catalog data systems. The idea here is to allow the partner to benefit by having access to real-time data.  Having this data bridge in place allows the aftermarket retailer and the distributor to create data flows to drive efficiencies for both businesses. A short list of benefits includes:

• Updated product catalogs
• Up-to-date fitment data
• Remove discontinued products from your store
• Accurate inventory availability information
• Fulfillment to the customer direct from the distributor
• Integration with 3rd party logistics providers
• Order tracking information
• Fewer errors and product returns
• 

So how do you bridge the gap? The easiest and fastest way is by leveraging a middleware layer to build the data bridge between the eCommerce store and the distributor's ERP system.  The middleware acts as a data broker between the two systems, facilitating the sharing of data both upstream and downstream. The data is formatted in a way that both systems can process and utilize the data. Once you have the right rules in place, the process is completely automated. Product updates, fitment data, pricing changes, and inventory availability are sent directly to the store in real-time. When an order is placed, the order details are automatically sent directly to the distributor for fulfillment.  The distributor in return updates the retailer on fulfillment details that can be shared with the customer on when they can expect their package to arrive.

Now that your business has that first distributor integration in place, what’s the next step? Start implementing integrations with your other primary distributors!  Your customers will benefit by having a wider range of products to choose from for their vehicles.  But it gets better.  Once these integrations are in place, create an algorithm to compare pricing and product availability from your different suppliers.  The algorithm will continually analyze your distributor’s data and do updates automatically.  New products and brands are added directly to your store.  See which distributor has inventory available and ensure accurate inventory numbers in your store.  Keep your prices and margins accurate.  Present the most up-to-date product and fitment data.  All this automation will make your store more competitive and ensure that your customers enjoy the ultimate shopping experience!