New registration plates, more used vehicles to choose from

Posted on Thursday, 20th March 2025

It’s mid March so you’ve probably noted some new ‘25’ plates on UK roads by now. These twice-yearly updates are part of the regular changes to the registration system, and key to driving demand for new vehicles. But what do the registration changes mean for owners of used vehicles?

How registration plates work

Number plates serve as a unique identifier for vehicles on UK roads. Each plate follows a specific format that includes letters and numbers, providing key information about the vehicle's registration. Typically, this consists of two letters indicating the region, followed by two numbers representing the year, and three random letters. This format ensures the registration process remains organised and efficient.

In the UK, number plates are updated twice a year, with new plates released every March and September. The latest update will introduce the '25' plates, available from 1st March 2025. All new vehicles registered during this period will carry the new '25' identifier, marking them as the most recent registrations. Following the '25' plates, the '75' plates will be introduced on 1st September 2025, covering registrations until 28th February 2026.

Do vehicle prices drop when a new reg comes out?

When a new plate is released, there will typically be an uplift in buyers looking to purchase the latest models. Consequently, vehicles coming onto the market that were registered new in previous years become “second hand” or a “used vehicle” for the first time. The same thing happens with commercial vehicle sales.  

This surge in demand can temporarily boost the prices of new vehicles. However, as more drivers opt for the new registrations, older models may decline in value. So if you're thinking of selling your current commercial vehicle, considering new registrations in your timing could make a real difference to the resale value.

Looking for a secondhand commercial vehicle?

It’s always a good time to get a great deal on your next used vehicle from MM Acquisitions. We have hundreds of used commercial vehicles from top truck brands like Scania, Mercedes Benz, DAF and Renault, available now at our impressive site in Preston. If we don’t have the truck you want in stock, we may still be able to source exactly what you’re looking for within our trusted network of contacts. Give us a call to discuss your used commercial vehicle requirements today.

Contact
MM Acquisitions Ltd
The Willows
Millennium Road
Preston
Lancashire
PR2 5BL

01772 556 130
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