Search Tips & Examples
The quality of your results often depends on the search method you choose.
Start with Unique Identifiers
Whenever possible, search using unique identifiers such as:
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License plates
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VINs
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Phone numbers
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Email addresses
These searches generally produce more precise results than broad keyword searches.
Use Dedicated Search Operators
Search operators help Scout understand what type of information you are searching for.
For guidance on supported operators, see the articles in the Search Methods section.
Use Exact Phrases
Quotation marks can be used to search for exact phrases. Example:
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"Audi A3 TFSI"
This helps reduce unrelated results and improves search precision.
Combine Searches and Filters
The most effective investigations often combine search operators with filters such as country, date, category, and price.
Use Scout Widgets
While the search includes different keywords and identifiers, the results found can uncover profile names and phone numbers associated with these results. Clicking on these can trigger new searches and further aid in the investigation.
Read more on this in the dedicated Scout Widgets article.
Review Historical Records
Older advertisements may contain information that is no longer visible in current listings, including phone numbers, email addresses, seller names, and images.