Launch a Used Motor Vehicle Parts Wholesaler in Burnaby
This page helps you start a Used Motor Vehicle Parts (NAICS 423140) Merchant Wholesaler in Burnaby. Expect a practical, step-by-step plan to register your business, obtain the right permits, and set up inventory and supplier relationships. You’ll get a clear overview of the seven regulatory requirements you’ll need to meet, plus the licenses, admin costs, and a realistic timeline to get up and running.
You’ll learn exactly what to do: confirm your business name and registration, apply for a Burnaby business license, obtain GST/PST handling where applicable, secure a wholesale supplier agreement, arrange proper insurance, and meet waste or environmental rules for used parts. We break down costs (licensing fees, initial inventory, insurance, workspace setup) and expected timelines so you can budget and schedule your launch with confidence.
Burnaby’s proximity to Vancouver’s automotive ecosystem makes it a smart fit for a used parts wholesaler. Strong supplier access, a solid customer base, and a business-friendly local government help you grow faster while keeping overhead in check. This is a practical, low-stress path to turning your plan into a thriving parts business.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a motor vehicle parts (used) merchant wholesaler in Burnaby is Product Safety and Recall Obligations. This is a legal must, and you cannot legally operate without having systems in place to ensure every used part you sell meets safety standards and that recalls are identified and addressed promptly. Treat this as non-negotiable: without solid product safety and recall processes, you risk penalties, liability, and losing customer trust.
In daily operations, you’ll focus on health, safety, and proper procedures. This includes meeting occupational health and safety requirements, obtaining WorkSafeBC coverage and registration, and training staff on safe handling, storage, and first aid. Maintain clear recall and supplier-qualification processes so any defective parts are identified and isolated quickly. Establish simple, documented procedures so your team knows what to do if a recall notice comes in or if a safety concern arises.
For business registration and taxes, you’ll need to line up the basics. Start with a Business Number (BN) registration with the Canada Revenue Agency. If you’re operating under a name different from your own, you may also need BC Business Name Registration. If you import or export parts, you’ll require an Import/Export Business Number. Consider GST/HST registration if your taxable sales exceed the threshold, and Payroll Deductions Registration if you hire employees.
Next steps: confirm these requirements and tackle them in this order—Product Safety and Recall obligations first, then WorkSafeBC and safety practices, followed by business registrations and tax numbers. If you’d like, I can map out a simple checklist and provide links to the right government pages to help you complete each step confidently. You’ve got this—getting compliant now sets you up for a smooth, compliant launch.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a motor vehicle parts (used) merchant wholesalers in Burnaby:
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Product Safety and Recall Obligations RequiredWholesalers must ensure products meet Canadian safety standards and report serious incidents. Must participate in product recalls and maintain records for traceability. No registration - compliance law. Manufacturers/importers/sellers must ensure products are safe. MANDATORY REPORTING to Health Canada if: death/serious injury occurred or could occur, defects found, inadequate labeling, or recall in other jurisdiction. Keep records 6 years. Penalties: fines, seizure, criminal charges. Report incidents online or call 1-866-662-0666.
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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Import/Export Business Number ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Wholesalers engaged in importing or exporting goods must register for an import/export account with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in addition to their CRA Business Number. As of Oct 21, 2024, register RM account through CBSA's CARM Client Portal (not CRA). Need BN9 first - get via CARM or CRA's BRO. FREE registration. Required for importing/exporting commercial goods. Ensure all business names match exactly to avoid border delays. CBSA manages RM accounts; CRA issues BN9. Contact CBSA Border Information Service: 1-800-461-9999.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
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