Deposit through to Collection
Once you pay the deposit the caravan is secured. But then what? We’ll discuss what you can expect in terms of paperwork, what then happens to your caravan before you collect it a few weeks later and of course what to expect when it comes to collection day.
If you have placed a deposit on a caravan, perhaps a first-time purchase or a part exchange on a newer model, you will be eagerly awaiting the collection date and possibly wondering what happens in between the deposit being paid and the collection of the caravan.
In this section we will lift the lid on what takes place behind the scenes at Swindon Caravans and share some key steps along the way with either one of our pre-loved caravans or a brand-new model.
Deposit paid
This is the point where you have selected the ideal caravan for your needs. Up to this point you may have chatted with the sales team, discussed your requirements and chosen your perfect caravan.
The sales team will also advise on what accessories the vehicle comes with or would benefit from. A comprehensive pack, including the sales invoice and some handy literature will be handed over to you. Details of any special deals on starter packs, extended warranty options and 3 year service plans will be discussed with you and if the vehicle is already on-site, such as a pre-loved caravan or an end of season new caravan, you can expect to have a collection date arranged there and then.
If you require caravan finance, this can be agreed in principle too and our sales team will demonstrate how the finance package works and discuss repayment options including HP or a PCP agreement.
Vehicle secured / Vehicle ordered
If the caravan is on the forecourt the caravan will be secured and a “sold” sign placed in the window. If this caravan is a part exchange and equipment needs transferring over, details will be printed on the sold sign. The caravan will then be moved and parked within the secure compound on site ready for the next phase of work.
However, if you have purchased a brand-new caravan the vehicle will be ordered from the manufacturer and depending on the time of year will depend on how soon the caravan will be on site. The sales team will contact you and discuss / arrange a collection date once they know the arrival date of the caravan.
Once the new caravan has been delivered it too will be taken to our secure compound with details in its window and will be ready for the next step in the process.
PDI
The next big step in the process for all our caravans is the PDI check. The “Pre-Delivery Inspection” is a thorough inspection of the caravan, the systems and features. The inspection also incorporates a service on the caravan, to ensue all moving parts are correctly greased, all safety items have been checked and the systems such as heating, hot water and battery charging all work correctly. Though this will not affect new caravans, any items that need work, replacing or adjusting will be corrected at this stage.
Accessories and extras
Once the caravan has been given the all clear and has passed our exhaustive PDI process, the caravan can now have its accessories and extras that you have asked for fitted. Items such as motor movers, tyron bands and any specialised equipment will be installed by one of our trained technicians on site.
Once installed a final inspection of all the fittings will be performed to confirm they meet our standards.
Dispatch team
Just before collection the caravan will be handed over to our dispatch team who will clean the caravan inside and out. If selected, the caravan will also be given protective coatings such as DiamondBrite to the fabric and the exterior of the caravan.
Once complete the paperwork of all the works carried out will be processed and be prepared for the collection day.
Collection day
Collection day is a big occasion and there are several things that need to be taken care of, not least the payment of the caravan.
In the next section we will go through the collection day, detail what you should bring with you, and share what to expect when you arrive.