As a tradesperson, these are the top 5 tips you should follow when buying a used van.

-- 12.03.2023

Are you a tradesperson and thinking about buying a used van? Then you’ve come to the right place because you’ll get important information about things to bear in mind. With these following tips we’ll help you make the perfect decision for your purchase.

Tip 1: Condition / appearance

Buying a used van is a big decision. There is an enormous amount of choice and the offers sound tempting – but which is the right vehicle for you? It’s best to start with the condition and appearance, both on the outside and inside. The year of construction doesn’t always tell the whole story. Most used vans have been used commercially and thus often subjected to intensive use. As with any other vehicle, never buy a used van sight unseen. You should examine it carefully in daylight. It should be washed so that paint damage, scratches, dents and rust can be seen clearly. Take your time when inspecting the car.

Check the following:

• Tyres and wheels
• Bodywork/paint: dents, scratches, scuffs, paint damage, stone chips or rust
• Lighting: headlights, indicators and other lights
• Engine compartment: oil, cooling water, hoses, seals, rubber sleeves and battery terminals
• Engine: unusual noises when the engine is running or dripping oil?
• Gearbox: do the gears shift smoothly?
• Brakes and brake pads
• Doors: do they open and close easily?
• Seats and upholstery
• Interior and boot

Note:

where damage was caused by external influences, the vehicle is referred to as an accident vehicle. The extent of the damage is irrelevant. Very minor paint scratches and the like are not considered accident damage. Serious sellers talk about previous damage and defects, offer complete vehicle documentation and let you test drive the car. Do not rely on verbal promises made over the phone and do not enter into an online purchase contract.

Tip 2: Van with workshop equipment

If, as a tradesperson, you are looking to buy a used van, it is advantageous to have workshop equipment included. This will save you a lot of money compared to buying it later. There are various options here, for example a vehicle interior that allows you to store tools safely, or a workbench.

Tip 3: Does the van have a TÜV general/emissions inspection certificate?

Complete vehicle documentation, such as the service booklet and registration certificates, are an important aspect not only for tradespeople, but for everyone when buying a used van. These give you information about the vehicle’s history. In order not to fall foul of the law, make sure you have a valid TÜV badge. Ask for the general/emissions inspection certificates because you need them to re-register the vehicle.

Tip 4: Transport volumes and intended use

Vans offer plenty of space for tradespeople. Key factors when buying a used van include:

• Loading area
• Payload

For a small van, the load is 0.5 to 1.5 tonnes, while large vans can carry 1 to 2 tonnes. Small vans are roughly comparable to a normal car. Different people have different needs. You know best what requirements you have of your van. For example, how many tools or how much material do you want to transport? More space is an advantage, but parking is more difficult.

Tip 5: Budget for the van

The advantage of a good used vehicle over a brand-new model is that the vehicle will have depreciated. This has a very positive influence on the purchase price. You should also determine the running costs in advance. That includes:

• Vehicle insurance
• Tax
• Maintenance/inspections
• Consumption, such as fuel

It’s worth comparing insurance providers in order to keep annual costs to a minimum.

Conclusion:

Vans are useful and reliable aids for tradespeople. The practical everyday vehicles offer plenty of space and flexibility. You should make careful preparations before buying a used van. Inspect the vehicle in daylight and dry weather. The seller has a duty to disclose aspects such as accident damage and warranty. Pay attention to original invoices, service booklets, TÜV and general inspection reports.