A new service aimed at simplifying the parts order process for body repairers is being rolled out by SEL-Imperial next month.

The Doncaster-based crash repair parts distributor has introduced software which enables bodyshops to automatically receive details of any quality parts suitable for a particular repair.

Kevin Shipton, SEL-Imperial’s managing director, says: “We wanted to cut out a lot of wasted phone time. This takes out all the effort at the repairers’ end and makes it easier at our end too.”

Once a bodyshop has signed up for the free service, its estimating system is programmed to automatically email SEL-Imperial when it submits an estimate to an insurer. The company’s computer searches its database and automatically sends a fax back to the bodyshop with details and prices of parts suited to the repair.

Shipton says the investment has amounted to “thousands and thousands”, but with SEL-Imperial receiving more than 2,500 orders a month, he is confident it will bring benefits once launched.

SEL-Imperial is a Thatcham Accredited Parts distributor and imports aftermarket vehicle panels and lights direct from manufacturers in Europe and the Far East. It distributes with a 60-strong delivery fleet.