Part Search FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PartsRiver sell parts?

No. PartsRiver Part Search helps buyers find the parts they're looking for and then connects them with local sellers.

How do I find the part I need?

Enter in as much information as you have for the part in our Part Search engine and hit "Search." This could be the part number (even partial numbers are okay) and optionally, a short description. If you do not have the part number, enter as much information as possible. If you need more help, try our Search Tips page. If you still can't find the part you're looking for, know that we take your problem seriously. Just put in a help request through our Need help finding a part? page, and if the part information you're looking for is publicly available, we promise to respond within 24 hours.

How do I find a seller close to my location?

Once you register with PartsRiver, we will be able to pinpoint your search to your zip code. Otherwise, know that we make every effort to provide national sellers that cover a large regional area for manufacturer parts; however, in some regions, seller representation for certain products can be limited. If you continue to have problems finding sellers for certain products in your area, please let us know through our We want your feedback form. We will forward your information to the manufacturer and try to get sellers in your area added to our system.

What are alternate parts?

Alternate parts are parts that are the same fit, form, and function as the part number in your search criteria. This information is provided to us both directly and indirectly by the original manufacturer. So although we make every effort to ensure this information is valid, we cannot be held responsible for its accuracy in either part information or application.

Where does PartsRiver get their part information?

PartsRiver has spent the last 12 years developing technology and processes that gather publicly available product information. In addition, we take pride in the relationships that we've developed with the manufacturers and vendors that provide us with their product information on a regular and ongoing basis for the purpose of publication.

What if I can't find the part I need?

We add content to our parts search engine on a daily basis. Priority is always given to parts that our users are searching for and can't find. If you need more help, try our Search Tips page. If you still can't find the part you're looking for, know that we take your problem seriously. Just put in a help request through our Need help finding a part? page, and if the part information you're looking for is publicly available, we promise to respond within 24 hours.

How do I submit a question to PartsRiver?

We welcome your input and feedback. If you need information or have a suggestion to share, use our We want your feedback page. Your input will be routed to the appropriate PartsRiver team for quick response.

What are the benefits of registering?

Registering enables us to provide you with better service, including more accurate lists of local sellers based on your exact address.

Why should I subscribe to PartsRiver Part Search Premium?

When you subscribe to our premium services, you will get exclusive access to advanced content such as VMRS classification codes and alternate part listings.

What are VMRS codes?

VMRS or Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards is a classification system governed by the American Trucking Association's Technology Maintenance Council (TMC). PartsRiver utilizes a section of the standards known as Code Keys 31-33. The Codes identify the part and where it is used on the equipment. VMRS classification is now being used by fleets for maintenance records and by manufacturers when accepting warranty claims. Contact us to discuss how VMRS classification can help your business.

Will our buyers have to bypass our corporate system to use Part Search?

We expect your buyers to use Part Search only when a part is not available in your corporate system. Our goal with Part Search is to save you time and money: Since we have more than 9 million parts in our database, we can provide your buyers access to parts much faster than they can dial the phone to reach a parts dealer.

How can I see a different list of sellers than the one shown on the page?

Click on the "change location" link just above the map display and enter a new zip code. This will display a new set of sellers. We are currently also working on a feature to allow you to expand the list of sellers that are displayed in the results.