Why the heck do all online part stores use same search engine? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 03-14-2003, 10:58 PM

When I started searching for parts for my car, I found about 50 sites that are all identical. I think there should be a limit on how many sites are put up like that because it is impossible to find the RIGHT part seller if there is one company monopolising it.

Anyone know where to get benz parts used/new for the lowest possible price?

Thanks in advance.

maheath · #2 03-15-2003, 01:16 AM

It's not one company, it's one distributor. A lot of the independent sellers have access to more parts, but their arrangement with this one distributor is that the distributor supplies the web interface and all web sales use their parts.

If you can't find the part you're looking for, try calling, you may be surprised at how helpful and friendly they can be. The sponsers of this forum sell parts at a reasonable price. Are they the cheapest? No, but they're not much more than the cheapest out there and they sponser an outstanding forum for the exchange of information.

#3 03-15-2003, 04:37 AM

I noticed that too. You type in E500 and the top searches are ALL from the same sites and when I click there nothing is in stock! it just says:

E500 500E 400E M104 etc etc

talk about spamming!

DieselHead · #4 03-15-2003, 10:27 AM

It's the WorldPAC system. A lot of different merchants seem to be middle men for the same system. You'll notice that if you order the same part from several different places with the same web interface, you'll get them all with the same part indentification sticker on it.

You'll have to find a place like Performance Products to get a unique selection.

Correct me if I'm wrong.

Alex

EVERYBENZ · #5 03-15-2003, 07:14 PM

what part do you need i may have it used or i can locate it used for you ,email me at everybenz@aol.com

jcantor · #6 03-20-2003, 08:44 AM

DieselHead is correct - it is WorldPac. They are by far the largest distributor of European car parts in the US (probably as large or larger than each of the manufacturers that they carry).

WorldPac provides the web interface and software and ships the parts directly to the customer for online orders. The various middle men (partsline, buymbparts etc) are able to choose their markup over what WorldPac charges. This is why you'll find slightly different prices on each of these identically looking sites.

One thing I have learned, though, is that calling these places sometimes get's you better pricing. I know that is true with *************** - as good as their online (WorldPac based) prices are, they are usually a bit cheaper on the phone through their own warehouse. The only disadvantage is slightly longer shipping times.

jlc