Free CRiS Caravan Check
Decode your 17-digit chassis VIN instantly. Get verified factory details, model year, axle setup, and build origin sent straight to your inbox.
What is a CRiS Number and How Does the Lookup Work?
The CRiS (Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme) number is a unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) assigned to UK-manufactured touring caravans built since 1992. Established by the National Caravan Council (NCC), CRiS serves as the official national register to help verify ownership, trace stolen units, and check a caravan's underlying build specifications.
Where to Find Your 17-Digit VIN
Your 17-digit CRiS number is etched into the bottom corner of all main caravan windows and die-stamped directly into the metal chassis drawbar (A-frame) near the hitch head.
What the 17-Digit Code Tells You
The code reveals the exact model year, manufacturer, factory origin, and axle configuration (single vs. twin axle). It also contains a unique 5-digit serial sequence straight from the assembly line.
Why You Should Always Decode the VIN Before Buying
Whether you are purchasing a used tourer privately or looking for salvage spares, verifying the chassis number protects you against common issues in the second-hand market:
- Match the Windows to the Frame: Stolen or cloned caravans often have mismatched window etchings compared to the metal chassis stamp.
- Confirm True Model Year: Sellers often list caravans by the year they were first registered rather than the factory manufacture year. Decoding the 10th digit gives you the true build year.
- Source Exact Replacement Spares: Knowing the parent manufacturer family (e.g., Swift Group, Explorer Group) makes sourcing exact fit replacement windows, door seals, and body panels simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our automated lookup tool decodes the technical structural data of your 17-digit VIN immediately without any hidden charges or fees.
Caravans manufactured prior to 1992 do not follow the standardized 17-digit ISO/NCC VIN format, so older serial numbers cannot be decoded by this system.
Whether you need a full salvage quotation or hard-to-find replacement double-glazed windows, our team at Scotia Caravan Salvage can assist you directly from your check report.