Where to find a caravan or trailer VIN
Most trailers and caravans have a VIN plate on the A-frame or drawbar, close to the coupling. Caravans usually also have a plate near the entry door, and the VIN is on the registration papers.
Older trailers, homemade trailers and some imports have a shorter chassis number instead of a 17-character VIN. You can still check them. Enter the number as it appears and we’ll run a chassis-number search on the PPSR. Odometer and history data don’t apply to most trailers.
Why check a used caravan?
- Finance is common. Many caravans and campers are bought with a loan. If it hasn’t been paid out, the lender may be able to take the van from you.
- Theft. Caravans and trailers can be towed away in minutes, and stolen ones are sometimes resold far from where they were taken.
- Storm and flood damage. Vans stored outdoors can suffer hail and water damage. Check for write-off records and inspect carefully for leaks.
Inspection tips for caravans
- Look for water stains, soft spots in the floor and walls, and a musty smell.
- Check the chassis, suspension, wheel bearings, brakes and tyres, including the tyre date codes.
- Test the gas, electrics, water pump, fridge and hot water.
- Check the compliance plate for the weights, and make sure your tow vehicle can legally tow it.
The same process covers camper trailers, horse floats, boat trailers and box trailers.