Discount Van Sales – FAQ Guide
Welcome to our expanded FAQ section, designed to answer your most common questions about buying, financing, and maintaining new vans in the UK. Whether you’re a sole trader searching for the best small van for deliveries or a fleet manager comparing large panel vans like the Ford Transit vs. Citroën Relay, we’ve got you covered. Our advice is based on over 20 years of experience in the commercial vehicle market, helping businesses save money on reliable, ULEZ-compliant vans.
Buying & Delivering the Van FAQs
Buying a van online with Discount Van Sales is straightforward, secure, and designed to save you time and money . You can browse the latest stock online, request a personalised quote, and speak directly with one of our advisors who will confirm availability, specifications, and finance or cash options. Once your paperwork and payment (or finance approval) are complete, your new van is delivered directly to your door or available for collection
A lot of our stock is available for immediate collection or delivery. Every van is brand new/ pre registered , and backed by a full / remainder manufacturer’s warranty.
Yes, we have a showroom and handover centre in Newport, South Wales, which also serves as one of our collection points. If you’re local, you’re welcome to visit and view selected models in person. Discount Van Sales holds a wide range of new stock on-site, meaning some models are available for instant delivery or same-day collection depending on availability. Our team can confirm which vans are ready to go and arrange an appointment for your convenience.
A Pre-registered Van is a unit that has been registered to get a dealership or manufacturer to their monthly target. The manufacturer / dealer then sells these on in large batches to van dealers like Discount Van Sales . Discounts on these vans can be substantial , and these deals generally save you the most money. The Van deals often move fast and are consistently the best new vans on the market.
Delivery to England and Wales is completely free. For customers in Northern Ireland, the Scottish Highlands, or offshore locations, a small surcharge may apply. Every vehicle is transported by our trusted logistics partners, ensuring your van arrives in great condition with a pre-delivery inspection completed.
If your van is in stock, many models are available for immediate collection or next-day delivery from our Newport site. For other in-stock vehicles, delivery typically takes 7–21 working days, depending on location and transport scheduling. Factory orders or custom specifications may take between 8–12 weeks, depending on manufacturer lead times. We’ll always confirm your estimated delivery date upfront and keep you updated every step of the way so you can plan with confidence.
Yes, all vans sold by Discount Van Sales are UK-supplied, brand-new or pre registered vehicles. Each comes directly from the manufacturer’s approved channels, with delivery mileage only, full V5 registration, and the same manufacturer warranty you’d receive from a main dealer, just at a lower cost.
We sell to both businesses and private individuals. While most of our customers are VAT-registered companies, private buyers are also welcome to purchase , just remember , that all prices shown on our site exclude VAT, which will be added where applicable.
You’ll receive the V5C logbook directly from DVLA within 7/10 days of delivery (if the van is registered to you), a full purchase invoice, payment receipt, , and a delivery inspection report confirming your van’s condition on arrival.
Orders can usually be cancelled before registration, depending on the status of your order and finance approval. Once a vehicle is registered, the agreement becomes binding. If your circumstances change, our team can explore alternatives such as switching to a different model or delaying delivery.
Yes, collection from our Newport handover centre can be arranged. Many customers choose delivery for convenience, but if you’re local, collecting in person allows you to see your new van up close and receive a full handover demonstration.
Yes, we can arrange accessories such as signwriting, ply-lining, racking systems, tow bars, and roof racks before delivery through our trusted UK partners. This allows you to put your van straight to work the moment it arrives.
Finance, Part-Exchange & Pricing FAQs
We offer a wide range of finance options tailored to businesses and individuals, including Hire Purchase (HP), Lease Purchase, Contract Hire, and finance lease Each option has its own advantages depending on whether you want to own the van outright or prefer fixed monthly payments with flexible upgrade options. Our finance advisors can help you choose the best structure for your business cash flow and tax position.
Yes, you can make full payment via bank transfer. Many businesses choose outright purchase to retain ownership from day one, while still benefiting from our discounted pricing. You can pay a deposit of £250 via company credit or debit card.
Deposits typically start from £250 as a holding deposit , though this can vary depending on your finance plan, vehicle type, or stock allocation. We’ll confirm exact deposit requirements before you commit to an order, and every payment is fully receipted for transparency.
Yes, we make upgrading easy. Simply provide your van’s registration, mileage, and condition, and we’ll give you a fair market valuation. You can then use this value as part of your deposit towards your new van. Collection of your old van can often be coordinated with your new delivery for convenience.
Discount Van Sales operates differently from traditional showrooms. We purchase in large national volumes directly from manufacturers and dealer networks, allowing us to pass on significant savings. Our lean model keeps prices low while still delivering genuine UK-spec vehicles and full aftersales support.
All prices displayed on our website are exclusive of VAT unless otherwise stated. VAT is reclaimable for most VAT-registered businesses, but private customers should factor it into their final cost.
Yes, we work with a panel of lenders that cater to sole traders, limited companies, partnerships, and even start-ups. Approval is based on your credit history and affordability, but even if you’re newly established, we can often find a competitive solution to get you on the road quickly.
Your options depend on the finance product chosen. With Hire Purchase, you own the vehicle once all payments (and any final option-to-purchase fee) are complete. With Contract Hire, you simply return the van and can upgrade to a new model without worrying about depreciation. The vehicle may incur charges on return these will be made in accordance with the BVRLA fair wear and tear guide. We will discuss this in full with you at point of sale.
Because finance packages are tailored to each customer, we don’t display generic payment examples. Instead, our finance specialists prepare personalised quotes that reflect your deposit, term length, mileage expectations, and credit profile. We present multiple options that are available on enquiry so you can clearly compare total costs, ownership benefits, and tax implications before proceeding.
Applying is simple, click ‘Get a Quote’ on any vehicle listing, and one of our finance specialists will be in touch to gather a few details. Most decisions are returned within 24 hours, and your quotation is completely obligation-free.
Specification, Features & Suitability FAQs
The best van size depends on your trade, load weight, and how often you operate in urban versus rural areas.
- Small vans (e.g. Citroën Berlingo, Vauxhall Combo) are ideal for city deliveries, electricians, and service engineers. They offer up to 3.8m³ of load space while being easy to park and highly fuel-efficient.
- Medium vans (e.g. Ford Transit Custom, Citroën Dispatch) provide around 5–6.6m³, making them the go-to choice for tradesmen balancing payload and mobility.
- Large vans (e.g. Citroën Relay, Vauxhall Movano) are designed for payloads over 1,400kg and volumes up to 17m³, perfect for removals, couriers, and builders.
Our team can recommend the most suitable van based on your trade type and storage needs.
Yes, the Citroen Berlingo is one of the most popular small vans in the UK for delivery and trade use. It combines compact size with impressive practicality, offering payloads of up to 1,000kg and load lengths of 2.2–3.1 metres depending on the version.
The Berlingo is available in diesel, or electric (ë-Berlingo) variants, all compliant with ULEZ and Clean Air Zone regulations. Drivers love its car-like comfort, easy manoeuvrability, and low running costs (up to 55mpg diesel).
The Relay is Citroen’s large panel van, whereas the Dispatch is a mid-size van.
- The Relay offers up to 15m³ load volume, payloads of 1,400–1,500kg, and multiple roof heights ideal for heavy trades or delivery firms moving bulky goods.
- The Dispatch is more compact and agile, offering 5.3–6.6m³ and better fuel economy, suited to trades who need city access and mid-range capacity.
Both models use Citroen’s reliable BlueHDi diesel engines, and the Dispatch also comes in an e-Dispatch electric model with a range of up to 143 miles.
Payload depends on the Transit model and configuration:
- Ford Transit Custom (medium van): up to 1,450kg.
- Ford Transit (full-size): up to 2,200kg payload and 15m³ load space.
Transit vans are known for their durability, high resale value, and powerful EcoBlue diesel engines, with newer versions also offering mild-hybrid or fully electric (E-Transit) options for better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Payload is the maximum total weight your van can legally carry including driver, passengers, tools, cargo fuel and your lunch
- Load volume is the cubic capacity of the cargo area, measured in cubic metres.
For example, a Vauxhall Movano can carry up to 1,500kg with 17m³ load volume, while a Citroën Berlingo offers around 3.8m³. Choosing the right mix ensures compliance with UK weight limits and optimal fuel efficiency.
Yes, for many small businesses, electric vans can actually lower long-term operating costs. Models like the Citroen e-Berlingo, Ford E-Transit, and Vauxhall Vivaro-e offer ranges between 150–200 miles,, and exemption from ULEZ and congestion charges.
They also have fewer moving parts, meaning lower maintenance costs. Electric vans are perfect for short-haul routes, urban deliveries, and daily trade work.
Yes, modern Citroen vans are built using shared PSA (now Stellantis) engineering, the same used in Peugeot and Vauxhall models. Their BlueHDi engines are proven for efficiency and low emissions, and most vans include 3 years / 100,000 miles warranty.
Regular maintenance intervals are typically every 25,000 miles, and UK parts availability is strong, making them dependable for long-term trade use.
The Transit Custom remains the UK’s best-selling van because of its unbeatable combination of space, technology, and comfort. It offers:
- Multiple body lengths and roof heights
- Payloads up to 1,450kg
- SYNC 4 infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel or hybrid options
It’s perfect for builders, plumbers, and electricians who want reliability with a car-like driving experience.
Both vans share the same engineering platform, but appeal to slightly different audiences:
- The Vauxhall Movano is often preferred by fleets and courier firms for its robust build and simple trim options.
- The Citroen Relay offers more customisation and body variants from tippers and Lutons to crew cabs.
Both deliver payloads around 1,500kg, load volumes up to 17m³, and fuel-efficient diesel engines, making them strong choices for heavy-duty users.
Yes, almost every new van we supply meets Euro 6 or zero-emission (electric) standards, making them fully ULEZ and Clean Air Zone compliant.
Models such as the Ford Transit Custom, Citroen Berlingo, Dispatch, Relay, and Vauxhall Movano are all certified for London and other low-emission zones.
The Dispatch stands out for combining large van capability with medium van agility.
It can carry up to 1,400kg payload, fits Euro pallets through its side doors, and still manages over 40mpg. Inside, it offers modern comfort, touchscreen infotainment, smart storage, and safety features like lane assist and emergency braking.
The e-Dispatch version also provides zero-emission urban mobility with a quiet, refined drive ideal for city-based trades.
Modern commercial vans now come with advanced safety systems that rival passenger cars, including:
- ABS, ESC, and Hill Start Assist on all new models
- Rear parking sensors and cameras (standard or optional)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Lane Departure Warning
- Optional Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring on higher trims
Safety standards are continuously improving, making today’s vans safer, more comfortable, and easier to drive than ever before.
Service, Warranty & Aftercare FAQs
Every van comes with the manufacturer’s full UK warranty or remainder of, usually lasting three years or up to 100,000 miles. Some manufacturers, such as Toyota and Nissan, offer extended coverage up to 10 years when serviced within their dealer network.
The warranty covers any mechanical or electrical defects that arise due to manufacturing issues. This includes engines, transmissions, electronics, and major components, though consumables such as tyres, wiper blades, and brake pads are excluded.
You can take your van to any authorised main dealer for your brand. Servicing at authorised centres ensures your warranty remains valid and your van receives updates or recalls directly from the manufacturer.
Yes, we can provide fixed-cost service plans at the time of purchase. These spread maintenance expenses evenly across your ownership period and help with budgeting for future upkeep.
All new vans include national roadside assistance through the manufacturer. Simply call the helpline listed in your warranty pack or driver app for immediate recovery or on-site repair. In most cases, you’ll be back on the road within hours.
Yes, extended warranties can be arranged directly through the manufacturer or trusted third-party partners. These plans provide additional peace of mind for high-mileage drivers or businesses keeping vehicles beyond three years.
Contact your nearest authorised dealer with your registration and VIN number. They’ll inspect the van and liaise directly with the manufacturer to approve and complete repairs under warranty.
Yes, we work closely with specialist commercial vehicle insurers who understand business use and offer tailored cover for sole traders, fleets, or self-employed drivers.
Yes, we proactively reach out to customers as their finance or lease terms near completion. Existing customers benefit from loyalty pricing, faster order processing, and priority access to high-demand models.