Buying a Used Caravan

One of the major worries when buying an expensive used purchase, such as a car or caravan, is its legitimacy. Criminals may see stealing a caravan as an easy way to make cash, but if you buy a vehicle that is stolen you won't be legally entitled to keep it if it is tracked down by police. An even greater worry are the caravans out there that have been written off by insurance companies, which may not even be roadworthy. They might even be dangerous.

The Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CRiS) will help you establish the authenticity of the caravan you intend to buy. Their database has recorded all caravans manufactured since 1992 by members of the National Caravan Council. Each caravan is given a 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is recorded - along with a comprehensive description of the vehicle - on a Touring Caravan Registration Document, which is given to the registered owner. Even pre-1992 caravans can be registered with CRiS.

If you contact CRiS when looking at potential purchases, they will run a check to reveal if the caravan is:

-Recorded as having been purchased on finance
-Reported as stolen
-Reported as an insurance write-off

The CRiS check will also confirm that the seller is the registered keeper of the caravan.

Once you have verified your caravan as legit, it is up to you to assist in the updating of the CRiS records. When you buy or sell a caravan, it's vital that you ensure the new owner is properly registered. Now, some more acronyms to memorize (or bookmark!)…

The Touring Caravan Registration Document (CVR6) is issued to the current keeper, and should be used to notify CRiS of the changes in ownership. Similar to the V5 document for cars, the CVR6 must be completed by both the seller and the buyer, before being sent to CRiS. Bear in mind there is a small fee for processing this change, usually to be paid by the new registrant. Again - contact CRiS for details.

CRiS Extra
For extra peace of mind, you can have your caravan registered with CRiS Extra, a nifty piece of ID kit, which marks your vehicle with a unique set of 1000 micro-dots. CRiS Extra also contains an electronic tag.

Check out the Park Resorts website for more security information and caravans for sale UK