Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is Keystone Automotive Operations?
- Why Merchants Choose Keystone Automotive Operations
- How It Works
- X-Cart and Keystone Automotive Operations: A Perfect Partnership
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
In today's competitive automotive aftermarket industry, providing a wide range of products and efficient delivery services is crucial for success. Imagine having the capability to automate your massive data imports, seamlessly send orders for fulfillment, and access the most extensive product catalog available—all through one integration. If you're an automotive business owner, this is an opportunity you don't want to miss. The integration of Keystone Automotive Operations (KAO) with X-Cart promises to revolutionize how you manage your online store.
In this blog post, we'll delve into what makes Keystone Automotive Operations a top-tier choice for automotive aftermarket products, explore the features and benefits of integrating Keystone with X-Cart, and guide you through the setup process. By the end of this post, you'll understand why this integration stands out and how it can elevate your business to new heights.
What Is Keystone Automotive Operations?
Keystone Automotive Operations, Inc (KAO) is a prominent name in the automotive aftermarket industry, renowned for being the leading distributor and marketer of automotive equipment and accessories in North America. Keystone caters to the needs of auto enthusiasts and professional installers across the U.S. and Canada by offering high-quality products and reliable service.
With a history spanning over 50 years, Keystone has grown from a single auto parts store to the largest automotive warehouse distributor. They operate 45 locations and partner with over 800 trusted suppliers to ensure they meet the high expectations of their customers.
Extensive Product Range
Keystone boasts one of the most comprehensive product ranges in the industry, featuring over 185,000 unique SKUs. Their digital catalogs offer a diverse selection, including products for replacement, appearance, comfort, convenience, safety, protection, and performance for practically all vehicle makes and models. Whether it's for cars or trucks, if it's needed, Keystone likely has it.
Robust Distribution Network
Operating a vast network comprising 8 Distribution Centers and 37 non-inventory stocking cross-docks, Keystone ensures fast and reliable delivery. Their warehouse facilities operate around the clock, picking, pulling, and packing orders to guarantee prompt dispatch. They utilize a fleet of over 800 trucks/trailers to secure next-day or two-day delivery across 48 states in the U.S. and 9 Canadian provinces. Additionally, they ship orders globally, exporting products to more than 70 countries.
Why Merchants Choose Keystone Automotive Operations
Automation and Efficiency
By integrating your X-Cart store with Keystone Automotive Operations, you can automate several critical processes. You have the ability to automatically import up-to-date product data from your preferred brands and seamlessly send new orders to KAO for fulfillment. This not only saves time but also enhances accuracy in managing product inventories and order tracking.
Real-time Updates
The integration offers real-time order status and tracking updates from Keystone. This means you can provide your customers with timely information about their orders, improving customer satisfaction and trust in your business.
Fitment Search and Accuracy
The inclusion of the Year/Make/Model fitment search add-on is another significant benefit. This feature enhances on-site search capabilities, ensuring that customers find the correct parts for their specific vehicles, thus reducing returns and increasing order accuracy.
Dedicated Customer Service
Keystone's dedicated customer service team is always ready to assist with any potential issues, from returns to delivery inquiries. This support adds another layer of reliability and trust, making the integration an even more attractive proposition.
How It Works
Setting up the integration between Keystone Automotive Operations and your X-Cart store is straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Get Your API Key: You can find your API key in your Keystone account. If you are not yet a KAO dealer, you'll need to fill out a registration form available on the Keystone website.
- Install the Keystone Integration Add-on: Head to the X-Cart App Store, find the Keystone Integration add-on, install it, and enable it.
- Enter Your API Key: Once the add-on is enabled, enter your API key from Keystone.
- Access Keystone’s Benefits: With your account connected, you can start importing data seamlessly and enjoy all the benefits Keystone offers.
X-Cart and Keystone Automotive Operations: A Perfect Partnership
The collaboration between X-Cart and Keystone Automotive Operations is designed to provide online sellers with powerful tools to enhance their business operations.
Easy-to-Use eCommerce Solutions
Kurt Kincel, eCommerce New Business Manager of Keystone Automotive Operations, highlights how this partnership equips online sellers with the capabilities to reach and serve more customers effectively. X-Cart's user-friendly automated eCommerce solutions combined with Keystone's extensive inventory and fast delivery services create a formidable duo.
Comprehensive Product Management
Jordan Checketts, COO of X-Cart, emphasizes the seamless experience offered by the integration. It allows auto parts business owners to effortlessly manage product additions, removals, and data imports. Moreover, businesses can utilize drop shipping directly from their X-Cart stores, providing customers with a more comprehensive and convenient shopping experience.
Conclusion
Integrating Keystone Automotive Operations with your X-Cart store offers a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance your business operations. From accessing the most extensive product catalog to automating order fulfillment and gaining real-time updates, this integration is a game-changer for automotive businesses.
By leveraging the power of this partnership, you'll be able to provide your customers with a broad selection of products, accurate search and fitment options, and speedy delivery times, ensuring a superior shopping experience.
Ready to take the next step? Integrate Keystone Automotive Operations with your X-Cart store today and revolutionize your business management.
FAQ
What is Keystone Automotive Operations?
Keystone Automotive Operations, Inc (KAO) is a leading distributor and marketer of aftermarket automotive equipment and accessories across North America.
How does the integration with Keystone enhance my X-Cart store?
The integration automates data imports, order fulfillment, and provides real-time tracking updates. It also allows access to Keystone's extensive product catalog.
What is required to set up the integration?
You'll need an API key from your Keystone account. If you're not a KAO dealer, registration is required. Then, install and enable the Keystone Integration add-on from the X-Cart App Store and input the API key.
How does the Year/Make/Model fitment search add-on benefit my store?
It improves on-site search accuracy, ensuring customers find the correct parts for their vehicles, which reduces returns and increases customer satisfaction.
Ready to integrate Keystone Automotive Operations with your X-Cart store? Start today and unlock a wealth of benefits for your automotive business!
