The story behind ClassicCarRatings is one of passion and ambition, born from a personal challenge that many car enthusiasts face. In 2016, Sjoerd Peereboom founded the company after experiencing a devastating loss. His vehicle, which had been appraised 30 months earlier, was tragically destroyed on the highway. The situation escalated because the car had significantly increased in value during that time, yet the insurance coverage only accounted for 10% over the initial appraisal. This inspired Sjoerd to rethink the process of vehicle appraisal and create a solution that could change how owners manage their classic cars.

Regular appraisals every three years seemed outdated, yet annual visits from an appraiser were too expensive for many car owners. Recognizing a gap in the market, Sjoerd envisioned a streamlined and cost-effective solution that could be operated online. The idea was to implement a system that allowed for revaluation every six months, ensuring that owners had accurate and up-to-date appraisals. However, this required the establishment of a comprehensive database to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the appraisals.

Over the first six years, ClassicCarRatings focused primarily on building this extensive database and gathering valuable data to support the online appraisal process. This groundwork was critical and laid the foundations for the company’s future success. In 2022, after years of preparation, ClassicCarRatings took a commercial leap by offering formal appraisals of vehicles. The response was overwhelmingly positive, as more car enthusiasts learned about the benefits of the new system.

Key Collaborations and Growth

Since its inception, ClassicCarRatings has established partnerships with major insurance companies, allowing them to reach more customers who require reliable appraisal services. This collaboration not only fosters trust in the data but also enhances the value of insurance policies for vehicle owners. Together with insurance firms, ClassicCarRatings ensures that clients can seamlessly transition in the event of a total loss, aiming for a replacement timeframe of just three to six months.

The Main Objective of ClassicCarRatings

At the heart of ClassicCarRatings lies a simple yet significant objective: to provide peace of mind to car owners. By developing a system that allows for more frequent updates on vehicle valuations, the company aims to protect owners from underinsurance. This is especially crucial for vehicles whose values can appreciate dramatically over short periods.

This journey illustrates not only a personal loss but also a transformation into a meaningful service that helps others in the community. ClassicCarRatings continues to evolve, driven by the same passion that sparked its inception. With each appraisal and every satisfied client, they bring their founding vision closer to reality, ensuring that car lovers can enjoy their vehicles without the financial fears that often accompany ownership.