CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BodyShopBids, an online and mobile platform that enables consumers to solicit custom car repair estimates by uploading a photo, today announced its expansion to the Pacific Northwest. The BodyShopBids network will cover the metro areas of Seattle; Portland, Ore.; and Spokane, Wash.
Accessible for free via iPhone, Android and the Web, BodyShopBids connects consumers who need auto body repairs with body shops through a unique bidding system. Consumers upload a photo of their damaged vehicle and receive several custom quotes from nearby body shops within 24 hours. A personal BodyShopBids representative is available to walk the consumer through the repair process. From there, the consumer can choose an estimate and book an appointment with the body shop.
BodyShopBids launched in June 2011 in Chicago, where the system has processed more than $2.5 million in vehicle damage estimates to date.
“With BodyShopBids, consumers have a painless way to find a reputable body shop and save money on repairs,” said Brad Weisberg, founder and CEO of BodyShopBids. “Despite its large population, 84 percent of Seattle households have one or more vehicles, making it a prime target market for us.”
These locations represent several of the many cities lined up for BodyShopBids’ expansion to major metro areas across the United States and Canada.
“BodyShopBids gives shop owners a unique avenue to bring in new business,” Weisberg said. “We look forward to replicating this model in Seattle, Portland, Spokane and eventually into Canada.”
BodyShopBids announced a $1 million round of Series A financing from OCA Ventures, New World Ventures and Lightbank in January.
The BodyShopBids mobile app is available for download on both iPhone and Android devices. Body shop owners who wish to join the network can sign up by visiting BodyShopBids’ Web page for shop owners today.
About BodyShopBids
BodyShopBids is a Chicago-based startup that provides a Web and mobile platform to connect consumers who need auto body repairs with body shops through a unique bidding system. The company’s technology allows users to easily upload photos of damaged vehicles and receive custom quotes from local body shops, all for free. BodyShopBids is backed by OCA Ventures, New World Ventures and Lightbank. For more information, visit www.BodyShopBids.com.