Which serial number do I enter?
Each check uses a different identifier:
- Vehicles — the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), found at the base of the windscreen, the driver-side door frame or the compliance plate.
- Marine — the Hull Identification Number (HIN), usually on the starboard stern of the vessel.
- Equipment & machinery — the manufacturer's serial number on the identification plate attached to the frame or chassis.
Copy the number from the asset itself, not just an advertisement. If this form cannot accept your identifier, use the official PPSR service.
What is a PPSR report?
The Personal Property Securities Register is an Australian register of security interests in personal property. A serial-number search can show registered security interests and, for vehicles, available stolen and written-off information supplied from other sources. It is a record at the search time, not a complete history of the asset.
AssetClear is independent of the Australian Government and AFSA. The downloadable document is an AssetClear summary, not a government-issued certificate. A report marked DEMO contains sample data only.
What does a security interest mean?
A lender or another secured party has registered an interest against the asset. This may create a repossession risk for a buyer, but the registration does not show the outstanding balance. Do not rely only on the seller saying the loan is paid off. Confirm the registration and any release arrangements directly with the secured party using independently verified contact details, and seek legal advice where needed.
What about stolen and written-off records?
For vehicles, a stolen record is a serious warning: stop the transaction and contact police through an appropriate non-emergency channel. A write-off record can affect registration, insurance and safety. Rules vary by state and territory; contact the registration authority and get independent advice. An absence of records is not proof that the asset has never been stolen, damaged or repaired. Stolen and written-off data is sourced for motor vehicles; it may not be available for marine or equipment searches.
Does "no flags found" mean it is safe to buy?
No. A search does not establish ownership, seller identity, condition, accident history, hours or odometer accuracy, service history, registration validity or market value. Records can be delayed, missing or updated after a search. Check close to the purchase and follow the buying checklist.
Before-you-buy checklist
- Match the serial number on the asset, paperwork and report.
- Verify the seller's identity and authority to sell without unnecessarily collecting their identity documents.
- Review security interests and confirm any release with the secured party before paying.
- Check any relevant registration records and arrange an independent inspection.
- Search close to purchase and retain the search record, receipt and signed sale documents. Check official PPSR guidance for legal protections and timing requirements.
Demo mode and payments
Demo searches are free and use fictional records. Live checkout is not implemented in this preview, so paid searches are unavailable. Do not enter payment details or use demo results for a purchase. Before paid searches open, the final AUD price, operator details and support contact must be available. Read our Refund Policy for consumer rights.
Support, privacy requests and complaints
A support address has not yet been published. This service is in preview; paid searches are not available. A working support and privacy contact must be published before the paid service opens. For government PPSR enquiries, use PPSR contact information.