Assess Your Needs:
Determine the intended use of the van, whether it's for deliveries, transporting goods, or carrying passengers. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), commercial vehicles accounted for over 1.5 million units registered in the UK in 2020 so there is plenty of choice available! Look at cargo capacity, towing capabilities, and desired features such as sliding doors or high roofs. Understanding your requirements is the unavoidable first stage you need to complete before proceeding further.
Look At Your Budget:
Establish a clear budget range, accounting for additional expenses like insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. The SMMT reports that the average price of a new van in the UK is around £22,000; but extras can inflate this dramatically
Make sure that prices you are quoted are 'on-the-road' costs: some manufacturers even charge more for such items as passenger seat belts, rear splash guards and locking lids to the glove box!
Research Van Types:
Familiarise yourself with different van types available in the UK market, such as compact vans, panel vans, pickup trucks, or refrigerated vans. According to the SMMT, panel vans represented the largest segment of the commercial vehicle market, with over 900,000 units registered in the UK in 2020. Research their features, dimensions, and capabilities to determine which type suits your needs best.
Consider Fuel Efficiency:
Evaluate various engine types, including petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric, based on the van's usage and anticipated mileage. Do bear in mind that environmental legislation may make petrol or disel less attractive fuels in the future! Consider the van's fuel efficiency rating in relation to your load requirements and the increasing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.
Evaluate Size and Space:
Assess the van's overall dimensions, cargo space, and payload capacity to ensure it can accommodate your intended loads comfortably. Anticipate future growth in your business or lifestyle to avoid outgrowing the van too quickly. The SMMT reports that the average payload capacity of a new van in the UK is around 1,200 kg.
Safety Features:
Examine the safety features offered by different van models, such as stability control, ABS braking systems, airbags, rearview cameras, and parking sensors. Opting for vans with advanced safety technologies may not only enhance driver and cargo protection but could reduce insurance costs too. According to the Department for Transport, van occupant fatalities decreased by 2.8% in the UK in 2019, highlighting the importance of prioritising safety features.
Test Drive and Comfort:
Arrange test drives to experience the van's handling, comfort, and ergonomics. Assess seat comfort, driving position, visibility, and noise levels to ensure a comfortable driving experience. The comfort and satisfaction of van drivers don't just contribute to their productivity and overall job satisfaction; they make them safer drivers, too.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs:
Research the reliability and longevity of different van models. Consider maintenance costs, availability of spare parts, and manufacturer warranty coverage to gauge long-term ownership expenses. The reliability of vans is vital to ensure minimal downtime and efficient operations for businesses.
Resale Value and Depreciation:
Consider the future resale value of the van. Research historical resale values and depreciation rates to understand how different models hold their value over time. According to industry data, vans generally depreciate around 20% in their first year and 50% after three years. Remember however that those expensixe extras you bought may add little or nothing to it's value.
Consider Financing Options:
Explore various financing options available for van purchases. These include traditional bank loans, leasing, or hire purchase agreements. According to the Finance & Leasing Association, the value of new business for van finance in the UK reached £3.3 billion in 2020, indicating the popularity of financing solutions.
Evaluate Insurance Costs:
Research insurance premiums for different van models, taking into account factors such as van type, usage, and driver profiles. According to the Association of British Insurers, the average van insurance premium in the UK was £1,100 in 2020. Understanding insurance costs will help you budget appropriately for ongoing expenses.
Consider Maintenance and Servicing:
Look into the availability of authorised service centers and the cost of maintenance for the van models you are considering. Regular servicing is essential for optimal performance and to maintain warranty cover. According to a study by MotorEasy, the average annual maintenance cost for a van in the UK is approximately £705.
Environmental Considerations:
With increasing environmental concerns, it is important to consider the environmental impact of your van choice. Research the emission ratings and fuel efficiency of different models. The UK government has implemented initiatives such as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London to encourage the use of low-emission vehicles.
Consider Whole-life Costs:
Take into account the whole-life costs of owning a van, which include not only the initial purchase price but also fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. According to a study by Arval, the average total cost of ownership for a medium-sised van in the UK ranges from £400 to £700 per month.
Conclusion:
By assessing your needs, defining your budget, researching van types, considering fuel efficiency, evaluating sise and space, examining safety features, test driving for comfort, researching reliability and maintenance costs, considering resale value and depreciation, seeking expert advice, exploring financing options, evaluating insurance costs, considering maintenance and servicing, assessing market demand, considering environmental factors, and factoring in whole-life costs, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect UK van that aligns with your requirements, budget, and long-term goals.