Most sellers on Boko Deal are genuine businesses that we check before they can list. Even so, a vehicle or machine is a big purchase. Follow these steps every time.
1. See it before you pay
- Inspect the vehicle or machine in person, at the seller’s premises, and see it running.
- Never pay a deposit or the full price for something you have not seen, however good the deal looks.
- Be wary of sellers who are “abroad”, can only communicate by text, or ask you to use a shipping or escrow service they choose.
2. Check the history
- Vans, trucks and other registered vehicles: run a history check (for example with Cartell.ie or Motorcheck.ie) for outstanding finance, write-offs, mileage and number of owners. Check the Vehicle Registration Certificate matches the seller and the chassis number.
- Tractors, excavators and plant: check the serial / PIN plate and engine number match the paperwork. Ask for the original purchase invoice and service records. Ask the manufacturer’s dealer to confirm the serial number if in doubt.
- Check the hours meter or odometer against service records and wear.
3. Buying from a dealer
- Look for the Verified badge on the listing: we have checked the dealer’s VAT registration against the EU VIES system.
- Ask for a VAT invoice showing the dealer’s name, address and VAT number, and confirm whether the price includes VAT.
- Ask what warranty, if any, comes with the sale and get it in writing.
4. Pay securely
- Pay by bank transfer to an account in the business’s own name once you have seen the item and the paperwork. Confirm bank details by phone, not only by email.
- Never pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency or money transfer services.
- Get a written receipt showing the item, serial or registration number, price and both parties’ details.
5. Report anything suspicious
If a listing or seller does not look right, use the Report this listing link on the listing or contact us. We review every report. If you think you have been the victim of a fraud, report it to your local Garda station.
Related: Used tractor buying checklist