Step-by-step guide: How to take photos for a vehicle valuation

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When you’re ready to pursue a Rent To Buy solution for your work vehicle, the first step is to provide us with accurate photos of what you’re after. 

Capturing the right angles and details can make all the difference, so we’ve put together this guide to walk you through the process, ensuring your valuation is as precise as possible.

 

Why you should take quality photos for a vehicle valuation

It’s important to understand why quality photos are crucial for an accurate vehicle valuation:

Detailed assessment: Clear, high-resolution images allow our Valuations Team to assess the condition, features, and any potential issues of the vehicle accurately.

Transparency: Transparency is key to our Rent To Buy process. Providing comprehensive photos ensures both parties have a clear understanding of the vehicle’s condition upfront.

Accurate valuation: The more information we have, the more accurate our valuation will be. Quality photos enable us to provide you with the most accurate pricing tailored to the vehicle’s condition.

 

Step-by-step guide to take photos for a vehicle valuation

Follow these simple steps to capture the photos we need in order to give you an accurate quote for the vehicle you’re after:

Step 1: Prepare

Before you start snapping away, ensure the vehicle is clean and well-lit. Park it in an open space where you have ample room to move around and capture different angles.

Step 2: Use your smartphone or tablet

Grab your smartphone or tablet – you don’t need fancy equipment to take quality photos. Ensure your device is fully charged to avoid interruptions during the process.

Step 3: Ensure good focus and clarity

Make sure you take clear, focused photos so every detail is captured accurately. Tap on the screen of your device to adjust the focus and exposure if needed.

Step 4: Photograph various angles

Start by capturing the vehicle from various angles to provide thorough details. 

Here’s a checklist of angles to cover:

Exterior Shots:

  • Front view
  • Rear view
  • Side profiles (both sides)
  • Close-ups of any damages or imperfections
  • Wheels and tires

 

Interior Shots:

  • Dashboard
  • Seats (front and back)
  • Steering wheel
  • Control panels (if applicable)
  • Interior space (cargo area, if relevant)

 

Under the Hood:

  • Engine bay
  • Any visible signs of wear or damage

 

Step 5: Include additional details

In addition to capturing various angles, it’s essential to focus on specific details that provide crucial information about the vehicle. Make sure to include the following:

VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Plate: Capture a clear photo of the VIN to help us verify the vehicle’s identity and history.

The 4 most common locations of a VIN are shown below. You can also typically find a VIN on the vehicle title and registration or the vehicle’s insurance card and insurance policy.

Image showing the 4 most common places to find the VIN number on a car - the driver's side jam, the driver's side interior dashboard, the front engine block under the hood, stamped on the driver's side chassis rail

Odometer reading: Take a close-up photo of the odometer to document the vehicle’s mileage accurately. This information is vital for determining the vehicle’s usage and condition.

Unique features or accessories: If the vehicle has any unique features or accessories, such as custom modifications, specialised equipment, or aftermarket additions (e.g. a bull bar), be sure to capture them in detail. Close-up shots will help us assess their condition and value accurately.

Step 6: Review and retake

Take a moment to review each photo before moving on. If any images are blurry or unclear, retake them.

Step 8: Submit the photos

Once you’ve captured all the necessary photos, you’re ready to submit them to our Valuations Team. 

Make sure you do the following so we get all the information we need and don’t have to keep hassling you to send us extra details:

  • Open up your email and attach the photos.
  • Make your subject line is your name, followed by the vehicle name (e.g. John Smith – Iveco Daily E6)
  • In the body of the email include the following details about the vehicle:
    • Make
    • Model
    • Year of manufacture
    • VIN
    • Engine number
    • Transmission type
    • Odometer reading
    • Registration number
    • Purchase price
    • And extra comments/details about the vehicle that we should know

 

And you’re done!

Once we get all the information we need from you our Valuations Team will get to work and have a quote back to you shortly.

By following this guide and providing clear, comprehensive images and information, you’re one step closer to getting behind the wheel of a new work vehicle. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance in the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.