Automate Your Counter Calls with an AI Parts Specialist
Stop losing 3+ hours a day to routine availability checks. Our AI integrates with Epicor and WHI Solutions to handle price quotes and stock inquiries 24/7.
Auto parts stores are currently facing a critical labor shortage where experienced counter staff are bogged down by 100+ routine calls per day. Instead of focusing on high-margin commercial account growth or complex technical troubleshooting, staff spend the majority of their time repeating price quotes and checking local warehouse availability for common SKUs. This friction results in 'phone tag' with repair shops and lost retail sales during peak afternoon rushes.
Furthermore, the complexity of modern inventory management—handling core returns, EPA compliance for hazmat shipping, and cross-referencing OEM part numbers—creates a high margin for error. Read Laboratories deploys AI agents that understand the difference between a remanufactured alternator and a new one, can decode VINs via voice, and verify compatibility across PartsTech and WorldPac catalogs in real-time.
Problems We Solve
The Stock Inquiry Bottleneck
Eliminate the constant interruptions of 'Do you have this in stock?' by allowing the AI to query your Epicor or PartsLogic database instantly and provide real-time shelf counts.
Commercial Account Neglect
Ensure your high-volume shop accounts never hit a busy signal. The AI identifies commercial CID numbers and prioritizes their orders or routes them to dedicated account managers.
Core Return Compliance
Automate the tracking and reminders for core returns. The AI can notify customers of pending credits and explain EPA core return regulations to ensure environmental compliance.
Inaccurate VIN Transcription
Avoid the 'wrong part' returns caused by human error. Our AI uses advanced speech-to-text to accurately capture 17-digit VINs and cross-reference them with WHI Solutions for perfect fitment.
What You Get
Real-Time Catalog Integration
Direct API hooks into WHI Solutions, Epicor, and PartsTech to provide instant pricing and availability without manual lookup.
Automated Core Tracking
Proactively calls or texts customers about unreturned cores to help your store maintain EPA compliance and recover credits faster.
Multi-Location Routing
If Part A isn't in Stock at Store 1, the AI checks Store 2 and Store 3, offering the customer a transfer or a different pickup location.
Commercial Order Placement
Allows verified commercial accounts to place orders via voice, which are then pushed directly into your POS for picking and delivery coordination.
Hazmat & Shipping Guidance
Instantly answers questions regarding hazmat shipping fees or state-specific environmental regulations for batteries and fluids.
What It Costs
Setup
$2,500 - $3,500
Monthly
$400 - $800
ROI Example
By automating 80 stock-check calls per day at an average of 3 minutes per call, you save 4 hours of labor daily. At $25/hr, that's $2,200 in monthly labor savings alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it integrate with our existing Epicor or WHI system?
Yes. We use secure API connectors or RPA (Robotic Process Automation) to interface with Epicor Eagle, WHI Solutions, and PartsLogic to pull real-time inventory and pricing data.
How does the AI handle complex part fitment questions?
The AI uses VIN decoding and Year/Make/Model lookup logic. If a query is too technical or requires a visual inspection, it seamlessly transfers the call to your lead counter person with a summary of the conversation.
Can it distinguish between retail and commercial pricing?
Absolutely. By recognizing the incoming phone number or asking for a commercial account ID, the AI applies the correct discount tier according to your pre-set pricing matrix.
Will this help with core returns?
Yes, it can be programmed to check your 'outstanding cores' report and call customers to remind them of their credit deadlines, ensuring you stay compliant with EPA regulations.
What happens if a part is out of stock?
The AI can be configured to check your other branch locations, suggest a 'special order' from a warehouse like WorldPac, or offer a comparable alternative brand that is currently on the shelf.
Is it available 24/7 for after-hours inquiries?
Yes. Even when your store is closed, the AI can take orders, quote prices, and inform customers of your opening hours, ensuring you don't lose business to online competitors.
Reclaim Your Counter Staff's Time
Book a free consultation to see how our AI Agent integrates with your specific inventory software.
Serving Auto Parts Stores businesses nationwide. Based in Westlake Village, CA.