Open a trade account
Apply for a trade account to access account pricing, online and telephone ordering, delivery and collection options, and ghost shipment under your business name. Credit terms of up to 120 days are available, subject to approval.
Who qualifies
We sell to the trade only. To open an account you need to be a business trading in tyres, motor, agricultural, plant, transport or related work. In practice that means a limited company registered at Companies House, or a partnership or sole trader with a verifiable business registration; a trading address that is a workshop, depot, yard or unit; and evidence of trading in the sector.
Our service is for trade customers. Fitting and mobile services are provided through our dealer network.
Not a trade buyer?
For tyres for your own vehicle, please speak to a tyre dealer or commercial fitter. They can contact us about sourcing products from our range.
The application
Have your business details and supporting documents ready before you apply. The following guide covers account setup, delivery requirements and credit applications.
1. Business details
| Field | Why it is asked |
|---|---|
| Registered business name and trading name | Your registered name is used for invoicing and account assessment |
| Business type | Limited company, limited liability partnership, partnership or sole trader — it changes who is liable and what evidence is needed |
| Companies House registration number | Confirms the company exists, who the directors are and that the accounts are current. Sole traders and partnerships give an alternative business registration instead |
| VAT registration number | Trade invoices are raised net of VAT. If your business is not VAT registered, please let the accounts team know |
| Registered office address | Must match Companies House |
| Date the business started trading | A material fact in any credit assessment |
2. Trading and delivery addresses
| Field | Why it is asked |
|---|---|
| Trading address | Where the business actually operates from, if different from the registered office |
| Delivery addresses | Each site that will receive stock, with goods-in hours |
| Number of branches | Decides how the account is structured — one account with multiple delivery points, or separate accounts per branch with a consolidated statement |
| Access restrictions per site | Let us know about vehicle size restrictions, unloading facilities and site access so we can plan your delivery |
| Ghost shipment addresses | If you want deliveries going straight to your own customers under your name, tell us at the outset |
3. Sectors of interest
Tell us which sectors you buy for so we can focus on the products and pricing most relevant to your business.
- Truck, bus and trailer
- Passenger, 4×4 and van
- Agricultural
- Construction
- Earthmover, quarry and mining
- Industrial and materials handling
- Forestry and grounds care
- Port and airport
- Motorcycle, scooter and ATV
- Bicycle and personal mobility
- Motorsport
- Aircraft, military and specialist
Please also tell us your expected buying volumes and whether you need container or bulk supply, so we can discuss suitable quantities and lead times. See import and container orders.
4. Credit terms requested
Credit terms of up to 120 days are available, subject to account approval. The application asks what terms you are requesting and what credit limit you need. Please request terms and a limit that reflect your expected purchasing.
You do not have to apply for credit. A proforma or card-payment account opens more quickly because there is no credit assessment involved, and it can be moved onto terms later once there is a trading history to look at.
If you are applying for credit, the form also asks for the person responsible for paying invoices. An up-to-date accounts contact helps ensure invoices and statements reach the right person.
5. Trade references
Credit applications need two trade references — suppliers you already buy from on account — and your bank details. Please provide a contact name and email address for each supplier so we can request the references directly.
Let your referees know we will be in touch. Prompt replies help us process your credit application.
What happens next
Four stages, in this order.
- Acknowledgement. We confirm the application has arrived and tell you if anything obvious is missing.
- Verification. We check the business details against Companies House and the VAT register, and confirm you trade in the sector.
- Credit assessment, if you have asked for terms. We take up your two trade references and carry out a credit check, then set a limit and the terms.
- Account opened. You get an account number, your pricing, and a login for the ordering portal. From that point you can order up to the 18:00 cut-off — see delivery and cut-off times.
How long it takes
Processing time depends on the completeness of your application and, for credit accounts, receipt of your trade references. Providing all the requested details and accurate referee contacts helps avoid delays.
Contact the accounts team for an update on your application. If you would like to begin purchasing while credit is being considered, ask about a proforma account.
Before you send it
Please check that your registered name and company number match Companies House, your VAT details are current and both referees know to expect our request.
Accounts are opened on our terms and conditions of sale. Read them before you sign — they set out payment, retention of title, returns and warranty.
Can I open an account without applying for credit?
Yes. A proforma or card-payment account needs no credit assessment and opens more quickly. It can be moved onto terms later.
What credit terms can I get?
Up to 120 days, subject to account approval. The terms and limit are set at the credit assessment stage.
Do you supply the public?
No. We sell to the trade only, and we do not fit tyres for end users.
Can I see prices before I open an account?
The catalogue is public, so you can see the range. Log in to GB Direct to view your account pricing and live stock.
I have several branches. One account or several?
Either. Tell us the branch count on the application and we will structure it as one account with multiple delivery points, or separate accounts with a consolidated statement.
Request a trade account
Complete the form below for our accounts team to review. You will need your company details and, for a credit account, trade references.
Start the application
Complete the application above, or contact our team on +44 (0)121 520 5215 or sales@gbtyres.net if you need help.