Counterfeit parts – Parts that are produced with the intent of misleading the consumer. Counterfeit parts are typically reverse engineered from patented, trademark-registered branded products in fit, form function, appearance and trade dress, i.e. product colors, packaging. Production, sale of and use are all subject to civil and criminal penalties for violation of patent and trademark laws. They are also subject to prosecution by the U.S. Department of Justice for deceptive trade practices.
White box – Unbranded products produced in various countries with part numbers for several competitive brands. Typically high-volume parts purchased in bulk; usually sold to consumer on repair invoices at branded product prices and represented on invoices as those brands.
Gray market products – Products produced by contract or joint venture manufacturers for OEM or branded product suppliers. Gray Market products are typically intentional over-runs on production, or in many cases those that were rejected for various quality issues. These products are sold, referencing the brand and stating that they have excess inventory. Primary concern is the sale of quality rejected products as good product.
Genuine OEM – Products designed for, tested, validated and approved by vehicle manufacturers for assembly line use or aftermarket sale.
Aftermarket design – Products designed and fully tested and validated specifically for aftermarket use, typically in kit, or single job form. Many products meet, or exceed, OEM requirements.
Will-fit – Products that are sold in the aftermarket for use where OEM product designs are covered patents or older designs are adapted for newer model use. Typically uses adaptors of some sort to make the product work for the application.
Private label – Products sourced, usually globally, for sale as a product under a supplier or wholesaler’s brand name.
Knock-offs – Parts intentionally produced to mimic OEM or branded products by use of similar colors or trade dress. The intention is to sell a product that appears to be genuine OEM or major branded products.
- Information provided by the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association
