Purchasing a new work van is a major investment. The right van can significantly boost your productivity and take your business to the next level. If you think about Iveco vans, make sure to check the large selection of Iveco Vans for sale. However, with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when buying your perfect work van.
Assess Your Needs
First and foremost, carefully assess how you will use the van. Consider:
What type of goods/equipment do you need to transport? Measure dimensions and weight to determine the required cargo capacity.
How many passengers need to travel in the van besides the driver? This dictates seating requirements.
Do you need to access the cargo area while on the go? If so, a side-loading door is essential.
What is your typical driving route? Lots of tight urban turns or long highway hauls impact ideal van size.
Clearly defining your needs from the outset will make finding the right van much easier.
Choose Your Van Type
With your needs in mind, you can start narrowing down the field by preferred van type:
Cargo Vans – Purpose-built for transporting goods. Basic trim focused on payload capacity over comfort. Panel vans like the Ford Transit provide up to 15 cubic meters of cargo space.
Passenger Vans – Designed to carry both people and cargo. May have removable seats and passenger doors. Minivans like the Mercedes Vito seat 2-8 people plus cargo.
Cutaway Vans – The cab and chassis are manufactured separately, allowing customized box bodies to be added. Used for specific commercial needs requiring high payload capacities.
Box Trucks – Truck chassis fitted with an enclosed square cargo box. Offer heaviest payload capacities of up to 5 tons. Ideal for moving large volumes of goods.
What are the best vans to buy?
Choosing the best van largely depends on individual needs, intended use, and budget.
However, several brands stand out due to their reliability, performance, and customer reviews.
Iveco has long been recognised for its durable commercial vehicles, especially the Daily series, known for its robustness and versatility in various business applications. You can find a large selection of Iveco Vans for sale at Swiss Van. Citroën offers the Berlingo and Dispatch models, both lauded for their efficiency, affordability, and adaptability, making them favourites among small businesses and urban couriers.
Volkswagen (VW) brings the iconic Transporter series to the table, celebrated for its reliability, resale value, and comprehensive safety features. The Crafter, another VW offering, is also notable for those needing more space and load capacity.
Other worthy mentions include the Ford Transit, a global favourite due to its varied size options and durability; Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, renowned for its luxury, advanced tech, and longevity; Renault Trafic, prized for its fuel efficiency and drive comfort; and Peugeot Boxer, which is known for its spaciousness and low maintenance costs.
Consider Dimensions
Van size and dimensions are key purchasing factors:
- Wheelbase – The distance between the front and rear axles. A longer wheelbase provides more cargo room. Shorter models are more manoeuvrable.
- Width/Height – Wider and higher vans offer increased interior space but are less convenient to drive. Measure your cargo before deciding.
- Cargo Volume – Entry-level small vans hold 4-8 cubic meters. Full-size vans range from 10-17 cubic meters for hauling larger loads.
Test Drive Handling
Test drive vans to assess driving comfort and handling:
Pick models with easy cabin access, good visibility and adjustable seats/steering wheels.
Assess acceleration, braking and low-speed manoeuvrability. Bulkier vans sacrifice responsiveness for load capacity.
Larger vans often have cumbersome handling. Consider rear parking sensors and blind spot monitoring to compensate.
Evaluate Fuel Efficiency
Fuel costs make up a significant portion of van ownership. Compare fuel efficiency across different makes/models:
Diesel engines offer greater fuel economy. However, they cost more to purchase initially.
Petrol vans typically provide sufficient efficiency for lighter urban usage with lower emissions.
Look for eco-friendly features like Auto Start-Stop, low rolling resistance tires and optimized aerodynamics.
Real-world mpg will depend on factors like load weight, driving style and route conditions.
Interior Comforts
Although a work van prioritizes functionality over luxury, don’t overlook comfort features to reduce driver fatigue:
Automatic climate control allows for regulating cab temperature for comfort.
Quality sound insulation minimizes external noise intrusion.
Sat Nav helps navigate unfamiliar routes and plan efficient delivery schedules.
Bluetooth hands-free calling enables safe phone use while driving.
Cargo Considerations
Your cargo needs dictate van choice. Assess:
Payload Capacity – The maximum cargo weight a van can safely transport. Entry-level small vans handle 650-1,000kg. Full-size models carry over 2,000kg.
Cargo Access – Rear liftgates or barn doors optimize access. Side doors are great for curbside loading/unloading.
Lashing Points – Built-in tie-down points help secure varied loads. Consider customizable tracking or racks.
Lighting – Interior lighting aids working in the cargo area. Exterior side lights improve visibility unloading at night.
Keep Running Costs in Mind
Beyond the initial purchase price, keep operating costs in mind:
Insurance – Get quotes to compare premiums across van models. Security features may reduce premiums.
Maintenance – Larger engines and complex 4WD systems increase service costs. Check scheduled maintenance requirements.
Depreciation – The rate vehicles lose value over time. Opt for vans with strong residual values to recoup investment at resale.
By taking a methodical approach and considering your unique needs, you can select the ideal work van for maximizing productivity. Invest time test-driving different models to make the best choice. With a van tailored to your business, you’ll be equipped to take on exciting new opportunities.