One of the issues with looking at small vans for sale online is that you may not feel you have quite the same level of control as if you were shopping in person. Yes, there is a far greater range of choice and more competitive prices, but you also may want to see the van with your own eyes prior to purchasing.
To help you find the right balance between transparency and convenience, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist of mistakes to avoid. Take a quick look, and you will have everything you need to know to get the ball rolling without delay.
Checking Van Specifications and Dimensions to Match Your Needs
All small vans for sale should come with an accurate and comprehensive set of dimensions so that you can assess the nature of the loads that you can carry. The key point here is that you want to make sure that the seller is providing you with the manufacturer’s certified dimensions, rather than their own measurements. This is the only way to ensure that you get dimensions correct to the millimetre, so that you know exactly what you can and cannot carry.
Checking the specifications of any prospective small van you want to buy for your business is also important. Simple things like checking that the opening angle of the doors is sufficient, that the cabin can be sealed off from the rest of the van, or that the on-board navigation and driver safety features are what you expect will really matter. Taking your time to tick off each of these key things will ensure that you can invest in a new small van with peace of mind.
Understanding Running Costs for Small Vans
Small vans will typically offer better fuel efficiency and higher MPG figures than larger vans because they move more efficiently. That said, it’s really important to make allowances for the type of driving that you are most likely to be doing. Small vans are ideal for local tradesmen who work with light tools and get their supplies delivered to the site, as well as urban couriers who make frequent stops. The point here is that if you are stopping and starting in traffic or parking up regularly to drop stuff off, the fuel economy will drop.
The other key running cost to consider is the price of maintaining and servicing the vehicle. While it is impossible to predict every adjustment and tweak that will be needed within any given calendar year, generally speaking, small vans are cheaper to maintain than larger models. They will typically cover shorter distances, carry lighter loads, and put less stress on the engine.
Speaking to an expert will help you gauge the likely costs so that you can budget accordingly. While it may be tempting to do a like-for-like comparison with the family car due to the closeness in size, in our experience this is rarely accurate. Small vans will cost more to run and maintain, as well as more to insure, in general, than a car of similar size.
Are you Clued Up on the Limitations of Small Vans for Sale Today?
There will be pros and cons of every size of van or other vehicle that you choose to buy, and there’s simply no getting away from this fact. For example, the Vauxhall Combo is a great option for couriers and tradesmen, but less so for builders and logistics professionals who need to carry larger and heavier loads.
If you feel like you are going to end up moving all manner of things, a larger van will generally be a better option. If nothing else, it provides you with more freedom and flexibility should you find that you need to scale things up in the near future. The lack of a through-loading bulkhead and restricted roof heights are some of the limitations of small vans for those who want something a little bigger.
Making the Most of Warranties and After-Sales Support
Whenever you buy a small van from our experts, such as the new Renault Kangoo, we ensure that you get 1-year breakdown cover and 3 years/100,000 miles of mechanical cover as standard. The goal is to make sure that when you come to the experts when you are in search of small vans for sale, you get everything you need for true peace of mind. When it comes to after-sales support, be sure to look for someone who will provide you with:
- Quick Service: You don’t want to be off the road for a minute longer than you absolutely have to
- Thoughtful Advice: You want someone who will be upfront so that you always know your options
- Fair Prices: You shouldn’t have to pay an excessive amount for standard add-ons or feel like you are being pressured into doing so
If you make the most of the warranties and support services that are available to you, you can get so much more out of your initial investment. Exactly what you want to hear when you’re looking to elevate your business the smart way.
Final Checks Before Securing Your Small Van Online
Before buying one of the many small vans for sale you will find online, there are a few simple things you need to know. Making sure that you can afford the monthly repayments of the flexible van finance you are considering taking out is essential. Making sure that you have explored all of the different sizes of new vans for sale that you find appealing will ensure you can make an informed decision. And choosing a reputable supplier who can talk you through everything you need to know will provide you with peace of mind.
If you are ready for an expert helping hand, our experts can introduce you to a whole host of options without delay. Contact us today, and you will be able to buy a new small van that fits your budget, meets your needs, and is always ready to get on the road.