Demand for bulk, traceable vehicle parts is rising steadily inside and outside the UK, according to figures compiled by FAB Bundle, the first trade site for buying and selling of pre-owned components.
Up to 250 bundles a week are being listed through the site since its first live auction on 9 December, with growing interest from bodyshops, salvage agents, exporters, vehicle dismantlers, and reconditioners from across Europe and as far a field as Russia.
FAB Bundle's professional delivery service has also proved very popular, with a number of positive customer comments. Auctions in January saw almost 250 bundles - typically 12 or 13 dismantled car, LCV or other vehicle parts - weekly on offer. At this start-up pace, FAB Bundle could easily transact the sale of over 50,000 parts during its first year.
With 20m mechanical vehicle repairs being undertaken in the UK since 2007*, the potential market for pre-owned vehicle parts is clear.
Jason Cross, managing director of FAB Bundle, said: "A month ago bundles of parts weren't sold in this way, now demand is growing 100% a week. I knew there was an appetite for bulk parts here in the UK, but am surprised at the interest from Europe and further afield.
"There is significant interest from vehicle dismantlers, that now appreciate the fact they can make a very healthy margin by purchasing bulk recycled parts and not cars - and can buy what they need when they need it, professionally dismantled and then delivered door to door. "
FAB Bundle supplies from vehicles aged 12 years or less, at wholesale prices. To ensure traceability, only approved partner, licensed vehicle dismantlers are allowed to sell bundles, and all listings are personally screened and approved by FAB Bundle's staff before they go to auction.
Each partner (seller) is also checked and approved by FAB Bundle's customer services team to make sure they are adhering to FAB's strict policies on vehicle dismantling processes.