Whether you’re a builder, electrician or plumber, your van is essential to support your business. Unsurprisingly, the iconic Ford Transit represents one of the best used vans to buy. With a legacy stretching back to 1965, the model has undergone regular updates. It is a van that really has stood the test of time and time and time again is the van of choice by so many. Other models really have come and gone and this model and make has stood the test of time.
This is a vital purchase of sorts to make
Between 2001 and 2017 self-employment in the SME sector rose from 3.3 million self-employed to 4.8 million a report has found. There are over 3.4 million people dependant upon their van for work. With the substantial growth in number of those who require and rely on their van for work, so too has come a growth in the number of vans changing hands with just under a million used vans changing hands each year. As with buying any new vehicle; buying a van – particularly where your livelihood revolves around it – is key.
There is a lot to consider. The wrong move can set your business back. On the other hand, the right choice providing your business with a great platform on which to move forward. There are van dealers all over the UK. So it is key you find a good van dealer from which to buy from.
What is best? new or used?
The first question to ask yourself is whether or not you want a brand-new van or whether a used van is sufficient for your business needs. A new van comes with a host of pros such as higher mechanical reliability, the latest technology and typically a longer warranty should anything go wrong with the vehicle. However, a brand-new van is likely to cost considerably more than a used van and can depreciate rapidly in value from the moment you drive it off the forecourt so if you look to sell your van after a few years – you’re likely to rack up quite a loss. Just be sure on what it is you are about to buy.
Buying a used van requires a great amount of attention to ensure you’re getting a healthy, fully functioning vehicle. You should always test-drive a used van before you buy it. Also be wary that a second or third hand van. This is key particularly one with high mileage. It can end up landing you with high maintenance costs, or even costly vehicle downtime. Nonetheless, you can expect to pay far less for a used van. It can suit a new business trying to save on outlay or may leave you with a larger war-chest to customise your van to best fit your needs.
Overall – what you need to know about buying a van
Before you buy a van for your business, it is important to assess exactly what you need it for. Do this as well as thinking about the scalability of your business. Also think as to whether the van you buy now will still work for your business in three years’ time. Ensure you are clear on the type and size of van that you require. For example, if you are a self-employed tradesperson who needs a vehicle which will transport tools and parts to and from each job – you might not need a larger van.
On the other hand, if you’re running a courier service where your most efficient way of working is to fulfil as many deliveries as possible without returning to a depot to reload – a smaller van won’t be sufficient. It’s equally important to consider whether your requirements now are likely to change in the near future. Your van is an investment for your business. From this point, thinking too short-term could subject you to further costs in the future.
