Manheim has introduced the new Code for Vehicle Grading across all 17 of its UK sites, plus various online platforms, in line with guidance from the National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA).

The Code categorises vehicles from one to five depending on the severity of any damage, or ‘U’ if it is uneconomical to appraise due to extreme damage.

Vehicles are checked from a standard viewing angle, which provides buyers and sellers with a standardised comparison.

To assist the roll out, Manheim, which sits on the NAMA advisory panel, has invested in new hand-held technology.

Head of NAMA, Louise Wallis, commented: “The change to a standardised grading system has been driven by the increase in online bidding and the number of people looking to buy cars remotely.”

Chris Cush, operations director at Manheim, added: “The new grading system will bring commonality across all auction houses and give customers more confidence to buy from a distance.

“Buyers will see greater transparency and consistency, while sellers will get better clarity on repair costs.”