Long Island Car Detailers At Their Best!

When it comes to selecting a personal number plate, there are literally 1000’s to choose from. Most of us select a registration number that means something to us. But we also expect the cherished number plate to go up in value. And often we’re surprised that it hasn’t gone up as much as we thought.

So why do some (apparently similar) personal number plates go up more than others? Choosing carefully can make all the difference.

Here’s 5 tips when you’re buying a personal number plate:

1. Buy the best cherished number plate you can afford.

   If you’re buying a private registration number with an eye on investment, this is very important. Unless you’ve spotted a bargain, chances are that if it’s cheap there’s a good reason. There are many similar number plates on the market or there aren’t many potential buyers… or both!

   That could mean it’ll be slow to sell.

2. Buy low digits.

   Whether buying a prefix number plate, suffix number plate, or dateless number plate, choose low digits. The fewer the number of digits the better. If your budget only allows for 3 digits or more, choose numbers that have a more aesthetic appeal. Such as 777, 100, or 101. Numbers such as 18, 21, 30, and 40 have some appeal as they represent significant birthdays.

   Don’t choose 27 just because it’s the date you were born.

3. Buy an early prefix number plate.

   If you’re buying a prefix number plate, buy as close to the letter A as you can. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as ‘H1′ which represents ‘hi’ or ‘X5′ which signifies a BMW model. Other popular options are X11 or X111 as these can be viewed as Roman numerals.

   Don’t choose 27 just because it’s your birthday. Choose a single digit or number 11 instead, if they are available.

4. Shop around.

   Look at lots of personal number plates on as many websites as you can, before making up your mind. Compare number plate prices, as they can vary significantly. That will help you to spot a good price when it comes up.

5. Minimise the squint factor (TM).

   Maximise the quality. If you’re aiming to make a name or word, try to make sure you’re not relying on strategically placed screws or tape. It’s not cool, and it’s not legal.

   Also, try not to rely on too many letters being replaced by digits.

   For instance, G88 OLF is preferable to B160 LFX (where the 6 and 0 help create the word ‘GOLF’). In the second example, there are also letters and numbers left over, and the target word is lost in the middle. Think carefully about how hard you have to work to ’see’ the word or name.

   It’s also illegal to mis-space or misrepresent a registration number. That means no strange fonts, bits of tape, or stray screws. You risk a fine, and possibly losing your personal registration number if you flout the rules.

In essence, choose something that has a meaning for you. But if you’re also hoping the registration number increases in value, choose wisely. A little more time and perhaps a little more investment could pay dividends.