Buying used agricultural vehicles and machinery is a cost effective solution for many, but if it turns out to be stolen it can leave farmers out of pocket and without vital equipment.
NFU Mutual, the leading rural insurer, says that farmers should ensure a thorough check of a vehicle’s history. "Nobody wants to uncover any nasty little surprises after the sale," NFU Mutual said.
The problem is widespread. NFU Mutual’s latest rural crime claims data reveals that the cost of farm theft claims doubled in March 2017 compared with the same month in 2016 and 2015 to over £1m.
Tim Price, NFU Mutual Rural Affairs specialist, said thefts of high spec tractors contributed to the spike, adding: “Quad and ATV thefts continue to make up the largest number of agricultural vehicle claims we deal with.”
Clive Harris, NFU Mutual’s agricultural vehicle specialist, said: “The vast majority of sales involving agricultural machinery and vehicles will be legitimate but there are persistent criminals out there, which means you should remain vigilant.
“Everyone likes a good deal but if the price you are paying is way under the market value then you shouldn’t ignore those alarm bells ringing in your head. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
“Buying a stolen vehicle or machinery will result in it being seized by the police. This will mean the loss of the tractor or vehicle, the cash paid for it and potential arrest for handling stolen goods.”
NFU Mutual's checklist
• Check the price of the vehicle you’re looking to purchase is in-line with the market. If it is much cheaper then alarm bells should be ringing.
• Check the seller has a valid address and telephone number. Visit them at their home or business premises. Never meet half-way, at a services or car park.
• Give the vehicle a full inspection and test drive.
• Always check the documentation related to the machinery or vehicle.
• If in doubt walk away until you have carried out research and checks to be sure.
Rural crime report
The farming industry is rallying around the next Government to take action on the 'blight' of rural crime hitting the UK recently.
NFU Mutual’s annual Rural Crime Report revealed the cost of rural crime reached an estimated £42.5m in the UK during 2015 - a slight increase (0.4%) from 2014.
But despite little change overall, regionally, there are still winners and losers in the war on rural crime.
Tractors proved particularly vulnerable in the East and North East of England where a spate of high value thefts occurred and accounted for almost half of the total cost across the UK.
The costs of quad bike (ATV) theft saw a 6% reduction, with Scotland seeing an impressive 40% drop following a large scale initiative to provide specialist training to affected police forces.
