The Equipment Register (TER), Europe’s database of plant, agricultural and stolen equipment records, is warning buyers of used machinery to be more vigilant as more than one in nine checks carried out during 2026 uncovered a finance, theft or other security marker.

TER’s analysis of its database highlights the continuing risks faced by buyers in the second-hand equipment, with 11% of all checks on machinery, trailers or plant undertaken so far this year showing a match being found for theft or other financial irregularity. The proportion of matches is slightly up on the 10% of checks flagged during 2025.

Trailers, excavators, dumpers, telehandlers and agricultural machinery remain particularly attractive targets.

Treve Jenkyn, manager at TER, says:

“The increase we have seen during 2026 is particularly noteworthy because it follows several years in which match rates have remain persistently high. Buyers cannot afford to assume that equipment being offered for sale is free from finance or has a legitimate history simply because it appears genuine or is being sold through a familiar platform.

“We regularly see situations where machinery has changed hands several times, items carrying outstanding finance are offered for resale, or stolen equipment reappears on the market months or even years after a theft. A simple check before purchase can help a buyer avoid significant financial loss and can also play an important role in helping police and insurers trace stolen property. Taking a few minutes to check its history is essential due diligence before committing to a transaction.”