Question 1

Which auto repair software is best for a multi-branch garage?

Accepted Answer

Look for predictable pricing as you add branches and clean separation between locations. In this comparison BytePhase is the one built with multi-branch operation as a headline feature — one Enterprise account links your branches under one login — while most US-focused tools price per user, which climbs quickly as a chain grows.

Question 2

What is the difference between repair shop software and a CRM?

Accepted Answer

A generic CRM manages contacts and sales pipelines. Repair shop software manages devices and jobs — tickets, diagnoses, parts, technician assignment and warranty — with the customer record attached. If your day revolves around devices moving through a bench, you need the repair-first system.

Question 3

Which code do I use when billing a laptop repair — HSN or SAC?

Accepted Answer

Both, on different lines: the parts you fit (a screen, battery or keyboard) are goods and take their HSN codes, while the repair labour is a service under SAC heading 9987, typically at 18% GST. Repair-shop billing software like BytePhase lets you set the right code once per inventory item and job-sheet line, so every invoice generated from a repair ticket carries the correct HSN and SAC entries automatically.

Question 4

What is the HSN code for laptop parts, batteries and chargers?

Accepted Answer

Each part carries its own classification based on what it physically is: internal parts like RAM and motherboards generally fall under heading 8473 (parts and accessories of 8471 machines), laptop batteries under 8506/8507, chargers and adapters under 8504, and laptop bags under 4202. Most sit at 18% GST, but rates and sub-codes vary by item — confirm each part you stock with your CA or the GST portal before a bulk inventory import.

Question 5

What is the GST rate on laptops and computers?

Accepted Answer

Laptops, desktops and most computer hardware under heading 8471 currently attract 18% GST. This has been the standard rate for computers for several years, but GST rates are revised by Council notification — always verify the current rate on the GST portal before quoting a customer or filing a return, rather than relying on a rate you learned earlier.

Question 6

What is the HSN code for desktop computers?

Accepted Answer

Desktop computers sit under the same HSN heading as laptops — 8471, which covers automatic data processing machines — but under different sub-headings than portable machines. The GST rate is currently 18%, the same as laptops. Pull the exact sub-code for your billing from the GST portal's HSN finder, since desktop configurations (CPU-only towers vs bundled systems) can classify differently at the sub-heading level.

Question 7

What is the HSN code for laptops?

Accepted Answer

Laptops and notebook computers fall under HSN heading 8471 — "automatic data processing machines" — with portable machines commonly classified under its 8471 30 sub-heading. Laptops currently attract 18% GST. Sub-classifications (6- and 8-digit codes) are set by notification, so confirm the exact code on the official GST portal (gst.gov.in) or with your CA before filing.

Question 8

Do I need a certification to repair phones?

Accepted Answer

Usually not — most places do not require a specific licence or certificate to repair phones, though you should check your local rules. Training still matters: manufacturer or third-party courses, micro-soldering training and practice on spare devices build the skills customers pay for, and certificates on display help win their trust.

Question 9

What software do I need to run a computer repair shop?

Accepted Answer

At minimum, a system for repair tickets, parts inventory, and customer communication — a notebook and spreadsheet stop scaling past a handful of weekly jobs. BytePhase, for example, is trusted by 2,000+ repair businesses in 40+ countries and covers ticket management, barcode inventory, estimates-to-invoices, and automatic WhatsApp/SMS/email updates, with a 15-day free trial.

Question 10

Can I run a computer repair business from home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many computer repair businesses start home-based to keep costs low. Check your local zoning rules and any HOA restrictions first, since some residential areas limit running a business from home, and get general liability insurance. Keep business equipment and customer devices separate from personal use, and lean on a strong Google Business Profile and online reviews to offset the less "storefront" first impression.