Many quotation systems can produce an indicative quote from the vehicle's make, model, year and specification before the registration number is known. The exact vehicle normally has to be identified before the policy is placed on cover.

How insurers commonly treat this

• The derivative, engine, fuel type and transmission can affect the premium.
• Entering the registration later may reveal a different specification from the one originally selected, which can change the quote.
• A pre-purchase quote is therefore useful for comparison but may not be the final premium.

What the quotation may ask for

Quotation forms use the information supplied to determine which insurers can offer cover and on what terms. Where the available answer does not accurately describe the circumstances, the insurer or comparison provider can clarify how that information is recorded.