Buying a Used Caravan? Check the CRiS History First

A used caravan is a big cheque written on a lot of trust. Unlike a car there's no MOT paper trail — but there are checks that protect you from buying a stolen van or one with money still owing on it. A few minutes here can save you thousands.

1. Do a CRiS check

Every UK touring caravan should have a 17-digit CRiS number etched on the windows. A CRiS check (for a small fee) confirms the registered keeper, flags whether it's recorded as stolen, and shows if there's outstanding finance. It's the single most important check you can make.

2. Search the Lost & Stolen board

Search the make, model and any number on the Lost & Stolen Register. If a van matching it has been reported stolen, walk away — and let the owner know.

3. Check the numbers all match

The CRiS number etched on the windows, the chassis number, and the paperwork should all agree. Mismatched, missing or freshly re-etched numbers are a serious red flag.

4. Meet at a sensible place

View in daylight at the seller's home address (not a lay-by or car park), check the seller's ID matches the registered keeper, and get a dated receipt with names and the CRiS number on it.

Selling instead?

Keep your CRiS details current, have your receipts ready, and be upfront with the numbers. A clean, checkable history sells a van faster and reassures a careful buyer.