A used caravan can be a smart way into touring, but a private sale has fewer safety nets than buying from a licensed dealer. The good news is that a handful of checks, done before you hand over money, cover the most common problems.
This is general information only and not legal advice. Rules vary by state and territory, so confirm the details with your local authority.
1. Search the PPSR
The Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) is a national register run by the Australian Government. A search by serial number or VIN can show whether a security interest, such as finance, is registered against the van. It can also show whether the van has been reported as written off or stolen, depending on what is recorded. A search costs a small fee. Search the official register yourself rather than relying on a printout the seller hands you.
If money is owing, the lender may still have a claim over the van after you buy it. Ask the seller to clear the debt first, or arrange for the payout to happen at the point of sale with written confirmation from the lender.
2. Match the identifiers
Find the VIN or chassis number on the van, then compare it with the registration papers and the compliance plate. Any mismatch needs an explanation. Also check that the plate shows the van's weights, since these affect what you can legally tow with your vehicle.
3. Check the registration
Ask to see the current registration and confirm it is in the seller's name. Registration rules for transfers differ between states and territories, so look up the process with your road authority before you hand over money.
4. Look for the service trail
Receipts for brake work, bearing repacks, gas compliance and any repairs tell you how the van has been treated. Missing records are not automatically a red flag, but they mean you will need to inspect more closely. Consider paying for an independent inspection by someone who works on vans for a living.
5. Inspect for water
Water is the great enemy of caravans. Look for soft spots in walls and floors, stains on ceilings and around windows, and a musty smell. Press along seams and check the roof edges. Run the taps, check the gas, and test each appliance, including the fridge on both power and gas.
6. Take a test tow if you can
Hitch it up, check the lights and electric brakes, and take it for a short drive. Pay attention to how it sits behind your vehicle and whether the tow ball weight seems sensible. If the seller will not allow a test, ask yourself why.
7. Pay safely
Use a traceable method and get a written receipt that names both parties, the van's VIN, the price and the date. Avoid paying a large deposit to a stranger before you have seen the van in person. The ACCC has consumer information about scams and private sales.
What about finance on a used van?
If you want to borrow to buy a used caravan, lenders often look at the age and condition of the asset as well as your finances. Some have limits on age, and the rate and fees can differ from those for newer vans. Look at the comparison rate rather than the advertised rate alone, and check ASIC's MoneySmart for how to compare loans. If you want to explore options, you can start an enquiry here; it is free and there is no obligation, and finance is subject to lender criteria and approval.
Where to look
Dealers, classifieds and online marketplaces all list used vans. Anything Marketplace is one place to browse. Whatever you use, treat a listing as a starting point and do the checks above before committing.
A short printable checklist
- PPSR search done on the official register
- VIN matches papers and plate
- Registration current and in the seller's name
- Service records seen
- Water damage inspected
- Test tow and appliance check done
- Written receipt with VIN, price and date
An hour of checking is a small cost compared with a van that comes with a debt or a hidden leak.
