Start with the buying route
| Pathway | What to provide to Ralph | Main decision |
|---|---|---|
| Auction | Supported lot URL and registration or VIN | Does the evidence and full cost plan support a bid? |
| Dealer | Registration or VIN, asking price and requested details | Do the records, condition and price support buying? |
| Private | Registration or VIN, asking price and seller details requested | Which claims still need evidence before payment? |
| Off-market | Registration or VIN and the details you have | Is there enough evidence without a live advert? |
Dealer and private checks do not import marketplace URLs. If you declare a visible fault, you can optionally supply a photo of that fault. Auction checks use the lot description and photographs when the link can be read.
At auction, set a financial ceiling
Add fees, applicable VAT, transport, repairs and a reserve to the bid. Check the venue’s terms and inspection access. A cheap hammer price can still produce an expensive car.
The Auction Bid Report costs 15 credits and focuses on the lot’s cost plan and bid guidance. Premium costs 25 credits and adds the relevant licensed history checks. Confirm the displayed inclusions before running either.
Custom Auction Lot Analysis reads the listing; it does not itself produce a maximum bid. Previous Advert History is a separate Custom item for auction buyers.
Work through the Copart bid example.
With a dealer or private seller, test the claims
Compare mileage, service evidence, asking price and declared condition with the returned records. An unresolved conflict needs an explanation before payment.
Legal protections differ by seller and sale terms. Citizens Advice explains dealer and private purchases. Read the terms for your actual transaction, including an auction purchase.
Use the same first filter
Start free with identity, MOT and mileage. These do not clear finance, stolen or write-off markers. Use Custom for named evidence or the appropriate paid report for the wider assessment. Ralph’s relevant licensed checks use Data provided by Experian.
Credits sit in a top-up wallet and do not expire. The credit total is shown before you run the check.
Whatever the route, a report is evidence for your next step. Match the vehicle and documents, inspect where access permits, and walk if the reality contradicts the records.
Use the viewing checklist or start with your registration or VIN.
