The ultimate guide to buying a used van: Your questions answered .

(Approx: 20 min. read)

Looking to buy a van? Choosing a second-hand model over a new one can mean fantastic money-saving options and a larger choice of makes and models within your budget. With second-hand models generally offering lower insurance premiums and road tax also, paired up with an extended warranty they offer a financially viable long-term investment.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover budgeting, where to buy a second-hand van and the pros and cons likely to be involved with your purchase, so you can feel confident in making your decision.

Key facts at a glance:

• Second-hand vans are generally cheaper to buy, insure and tax than new ones… and depreciate at a much slower pace.

• When looking to buy, be sure to factor in ongoing costs like fuel, insurance, tax and maintenance.

• A large range of makes and models on the second-hand market can represent better value and greater flexibility for budget-conscious buyers.

• VAT may even be reclaimable on your purchase if both buyer and seller are VAT-registered.

• Before completing any purchase, it’s vitally important to check the van’s full service history and perform an HPI check to confirm ownership.

• Also be sure to examine the vehicle’s condition and take it for a test drive before finalising any purchase.

• Most used vans won’t include an extended warranty as standard, so it’s important to consider an extended warranty plan to protect yourself against unexpected repair costs.

• As with any other vehicle, vans must be taxed, insured and have a valid MOT before they can be used on the road.

• Failing to comply with driving or load regulations can result in fines, penalty points or court action.

Use the sections below to jump straight to what matters most, or read on for our full guide to buying a used van:

Why should you buy a second-hand van over a new one?

Buying a second-hand van can make more sense than choosing a brand new one, as it is often much cheaper, both to purchase and to insure. A new van loses value quickly in the first few years, while a used van has already gone through that stage – meaning you get better value for money [2].

Many used vans are still reliable and well-maintained, so you can almost certainly find one that meets your needs without the higher cost of a new model.

Key reasons to buy second-hand:

There are several strong reasons why buying a used van can make great financial and practical sense.

• Used vans are cheaper than buying new, saving you money.

• It’s possible to claim back VAT paid on the purchase.

• The vehicle’s steepest drop in terms of depreciation has already taken place.

• Lower insurance premiums are more likely.

• Wider selection of makes and models to choose from within your budget.

First and foremost, you’ll more than likely pay significantly less upfront compared to buying a brand-new model, saving yourself money right from the start. For many businesses or self-employed drivers, that lower initial cost can make upgrading or expanding a fleet for example, much more affordable.

If you’re VAT-registered, you may also be able to claim back the VAT paid on the purchase of a used van, depending on how the sale is structured. This can lead to even bigger savings.

Another major advantage is that a used van has already gone through the steepest part of its depreciation curve, meaning its value won’t drop as quickly after you buy it. This stability makes it a smarter investment if you plan to resell later on.

You’ll also likely benefit from lower insurance costs, as premiums for used vehicles are generally cheaper than for new ones., and the used market offers a much wider selection of makes, models and specifications to choose from.

What are the downsides of buying a second-hand van?

While buying a second-hand van can be a smart financial move, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

• Full service history may not be available, depending on the records kept by the previous owner/s.

• Used vans often have either limited or no extended warranty plan in place. Get a quote here.

• More frequent maintenance may be required due to older parts.

• Regular servicing is essential.

• Older models may lack the latest technology or safety features.

One of the main drawbacks is the potential lack of a full service history for the vehicle, even if you obtain a history or HPI report. These checks are useful, but they don’t always reveal how well the van has (or has not!) been maintained by previous owners.

Most used vans also come with limited or no warranty plan, which means any unexpected repairs could come straight out of your pocket. This can make it worthwhile to consider an extended warranty plan for extra peace of mind.

Used vans may also require more frequent maintenance, as older parts are more likely to wear down over time. Regular (yearly) servicing becomes especially important to keep them running smoothly and prevent costly breakdowns.

Older models may lack the latest technology or safety features, such as advanced driver-assist, improved fuel efficiency or updated infotainment options. While these factors don’t affect every buyer, they’re worth weighing up when comparing different models and budgets.

Where is the best place to buy a second-hand van?

When it comes to buying a second-hand van in the UK, you have several options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The ‘best’ place depends on your budget, how much peace of mind you want and how confident you are in your own mechanical knowledge. 

Large van dealerships: 

Dedicated dealerships that specialise in selling used vans, and often have a wide network across the UK.

Online marketplaces:

These websites act as a hub, listing vans from both private sellers and dealerships across the country. Examples: Auto Trader, Motors.co.uk, Van Monster, AA Cars. 

Independent local dealers:

These are smaller – often family-run – businesses that specialise in vans. 

Auction houses:

Auction houses may offer vans and commercial vehicles to the highest bidder. Auctioneers such as Manheims, Bidspotter and G3 Vehicle Auctions.

Top tips for buying a second-hand van:

Get a history check:
Before you commit, a full HPI (Hire Purchase Information) check is essential. It will tell you if the van has outstanding finance, has been stolen or written off. 

Check for VAT:
Many used vans are sold with VAT (Value Added Tax) on top of the advertised price, especially from dealers. Make sure to check if the price advertised includes VAT.

Inspect thoroughly:
Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, you should always inspect the van thoroughly. Check the bodywork for rust and damage, look for signs of heavy use in the load bay and check for a full-service history. 

Test drive:
Take the van on a test drive. Listen for strange noises, check the steering, brakes and clutch, and make sure everything feels right. 

What type of van suits my needs?

Choosing the right type of van depends on what the van will be used for, where it will be driven, and how much space is needed.

• Panel vans like the Ford Transit or Volkswagen (VW) Transporter offer spacious and versatile cargo areas, but can be bulky and less fuel-efficient.

• City vans such as the Ford Transit Connect or VW Caddy are compact and great for urban driving with easier parking and better fuel economy but have less cargo space.

• Car-derived vans are small, easy to drive, and economical but have limited load capacity.

• Medium vans provide a good balance of cargo space and manoeuvrability.

• Large vans offer maximum payload and volume but can be harder to park and more costly to run.

• Pick-ups and 4x4s provide versatility and off-road capability but have exposed cargo areas that may not protect goods from weather.

Considering these factors helps match the van type to specific business or personal needs for optimal use and efficiency.

How do I choose the right van type for me?

Think about what you’ll use your van for, where you’ll drive, and how much space you need. The table below will help:

How do I work out my used van budget?

To work out a budget for a used van, start by thinking about how much money you can spend without it causing problems for other things you need. Consider your income each month, and decide what part of that you can safely use for buying and running a van.

Once you’ve worked out your budget, you can check prices for the type of van you need, considering their age, mileage and condition, because older vans or ones with lots of miles usually cost less. You should also think about costs for running the van including fuel, insurance and road tax.

What specific costs should I include when working out my van budget?

To work out a used van budget, consider the following key cost factors to get a well-rounded estimate, covering both the purchase and ongoing expenses:

Purchase price:
Research market prices for the specific van type desired to find a realistic buying cost.

Insurance:
Obtain quotes based on driver profile and business to estimate insurance premiums.

Fuel/energy:
Calculate expected fuel or electricity costs based on projected mileage and fuel type.

Maintenance and repairs:
Budget for servicing and potential repairs, as used vans may need more frequent upkeep.

Tax and licensing:
Include costs for vehicle tax and any local fees required for operation.

VAT:
Check if VAT applies to the purchase and whether it can be reclaimed if bought by a business.

Additional costs:
Account for extra expenses like warranty plans, vehicle upgrades, or accessories.

Calculating all these elements will give you a well-rounded budget to comfortably cover both buying and owning your van. 

Will there be VAT on top of the advertised price of a used van?

In the UK, VAT is typically charged at 20% of the sale price, but whether your pay it on a used van depends on several factors.

• VAT will usually be added to the sale price if buying from a VAT-registered business.

• VAT may be able to be reclaimed on the purchase.

• Some vans are sold under the Margin Scheme. (seller pays VAT on the difference between their purchase and sale prices, rather than on the full sale price)

• If sold under the Margin Scheme, VAT is calculated on the seller’s profit margin and included in the price.

• VAT may be able to be reclaimed on the purchase.

• Private sales generally do not include VAT.

• VAT rules differ for commercial vehicles.

If you’re buying from a VAT-registered business, VAT will usually be added to the sale price. However, some vans are sold under the Margin Scheme where VAT is only calculated on the seller’s profit margin and is already included in the advertised price.

If you’re a VAT-registered business purchasing a van for commercial use, you may be eligible to reclaim the VAT paid on the purchase, which can significantly reduce your overall costs. Private sales between individuals generally do not include VAT, as private sellers are not registered to charge it.

It is important to check with the seller whether VAT is included or extra before you buy. Also, for commercial vehicles, VAT rules can be different compared to regular cars.

If you’re unsure, ask the seller about VAT or speak to an accountant for advice on your specific situation.

Is insurance for used vans cheaper than new vans? 

Yes, insurance for used vans is generally cheaper than for new vans.

This is mainly because used vans have a lower market value, so the cost to replace or repair them in case of damage or theft is less. Insurance companies consider this lower value when calculating premiums, which leads to more affordable insurance costs for used vans.

However, the exact price can still vary depending on factors like the van’s age, model, your driving history and where you live. 

What should I check when inspecting and test driving a used van?

Use this checklist every time you view, or test drive a used van: 

How do I find out the history of the used van I’m looking to buy? 

To find the full history of a used van in the UK, you can take the following steps: 

Get a vehicle history check:
Use services provided by companies like the DVLA, HPI Check, Check Car Details or Experian AutoCheck. These checks provide essential details including: 

• Outstanding finance

• Previous accidents or insurance claims

• Recorded mileage history

• Whether the van has been stolen, in an accident or written off

• MOT history and advisories

Ask the seller for full service history: 
Request all available service and maintenance records. Regular servicing by authorised dealers or trusted garages is a good sign of proper care. 

Check the MOT history: 
You can view MOT records online through the UK government website by entering the van’s registration number. It shows test results, mileage readings, and any advisories or failures. 

Use the DVLA vehicle enquiry service: 
This provides basic van details such as taxation and MOT expiry but doesn’t include full history. 

Get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic: 
An independent mechanic can check for hidden issues that might not appear in documents. 

Although getting a full, flawless history may not always be possible, combining these checks gives you a comprehensive picture of the van’s background to buy with confidence. 

How do I know if the van I’m buying has been serviced recently?

To find out if the van you’re buying has been serviced recently, you should:

Ask the seller for service records: 
Request the full-service history, including receipts and stamps in the service book. These documents show when and where the van was last serviced and what work was done.

Look for a valid MOT certificate: 
The MOT history can show recent inspections and advisories. You can check MOT records online using the van’s registration number on the UK government website.

Check for recent servicing stickers or notes: 
Some garages place a service sticker on the windscreen or inside the door frame showing the date and mileage of the last service.

Inspect the condition of the van: 
Signs like clean oil, no warning lights on the dashboard and well-maintained parts often indicate the van has been cared for and serviced regularly.

Get an independent inspection: 
If you still have doubts, have a trusted mechanic check the van’s condition and look for signs that servicing is up to date.

Having proof of recent servicing gives you confidence that the van is less likely to have hidden issues or need urgent repairs.

Which vans in the UK have consistently good reviews?

The Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Boxer and Expert, Transit Connect, FIAT Doblo, Ducato and Fiorino, Vauxhall Vivaro, Volkswagen Caddy and the Renault Trafic may also suit your needs – so you are not limited to a small range of vans. 

What sort of mileage and running costs do these vans have? 

The average mileage for an electric van is around 10,000 per year. This is due to it being a newer market, and EVs generally being used for shorter urban routes.

Medium-sized vans have an average mileage of roughly 12,500 per year, and large-sized vans between 15,000 – 20,000.

What’s the best used van between £10-20K?

With a budget between £10,000 and £20,000, you can look for a wider range of vans, often with lower mileage, a better specification, and from more recent model years.

This price bracket is a sweet spot for finding a van that offers a great blend of value, modern features, and long-term reliability. 

Here is a table of some of the best used vans in the UK within this budget, complete with their pros and cons. 

Which vans in the UK have the biggest depreciation?

Depreciation is the drop in a van’s value over time, and buying a van that depreciates less can save you money if you decide to sell it later.

Medium vans like the Ford Transit tend to hold value better compared to larger, less fuel-efficient models, but exact depreciation also depends on age, mileage, condition, and market demand.

In the UK, vans with the biggest depreciation tend to be: 

• Large vans such as Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Relay, Fiat Ducato, and Volkswagen Crafter:
  These vans often have higher initial prices and steep early depreciation because they are more expensive to buy new and have higher running costs. 

• Luxury or premium branded vans:
  With higher starting prices, they tend to lose value faster. 

• New model launches or vans with rapid technological updates:
  Older versions can depreciate more quickly.

• Vans with high fuel consumption or poor fuel economy 

• Smaller vans like city vans and car-derived vans:
  These experience less depreciation due to their lower purchase price and better fuel efficiency.

Are there lots of used electric vans available?

There are used electric vans available in the UK that are now out of manufacturers’ warranty. Early electric vans, which have been on the market for several years, are reaching the end of their original manufacturer warranty periods, typically around 3 to 5 years depending on the brand and model.

Examples of early electric van models include: 

• Nissan e-NV200 (first launched around 2014).

• Renault Kangoo ZE (since around 2011).
  Many ZE models had a battery lease arrangement, which meant paying a separate monthly fee for the battery. Buyers of used models with this setup would need to take over the lease. Some later models offered the option to purchase the battery outright.

• Volkswagen e-Crafter (introduced mid-2018).

• Mercedes-Benz eVito (launched around 2018).

These older models may now be out of their free manufacturer warranty, which usually spans 3 years or over a specified mileage, although battery warranties often last longer (typically 8 years or 100,000 miles). 

When buying one of these used electric vans out of warranty, it’s important to consider: 

Battery health and condition, as batteries are expensive to replace:
The cost of replacing new batteries for an electric van like the Volkswagen e-Crafter in the UK typically ranges between £10,000 to £15,000. This estimate depends on factors such as the battery capacity, labour costs, and whether the replacement is done under warranty or independently. or authorised service centres for precise quotes and potential warranty plan options.

Mileage restrictions – many early electric vans have a limited range:
You need to bear this in mind and these types of electric vans are suitable for short local deliveries and trips.

Any service history and previous repairs.

Availability of extended warranty plans:
A plan from Warrantywise can help with future repair requests.

Should you buy a used electric, petrol or diesel van?

Choosing between a used electric van and a used internal combustion engine (ICE) van depends on your specific needs, budget, and circumstances. Here are some key points to help you decide: 

Used electric vans:

Used petrol & diesel vans:

Which should you choose?

If you’ll be taking short, urban trips and have access to reliable charging, a used electric van can save money on running costs – and support your green credentials.

If you need longer range with versatility for different routes a petrol or diesel van might be more practical.

Consider your business needs, budget, and local infrastructure before deciding. Both have pros and cons, so choose the one that fits your daily usage best.

What is the benefit of having a Warrantywise plan with my used van?

A warranty plan helps shield you from the cost of the most regular repair requests, offering you more security and helping with unexpected bills. That way, you can drive confidently everywhere, every day.

Comprehensive protection: 
Protects against unexpected repair costs, giving peace of mind for mechanical and electrical failures.

Nationwide repairs: 
Access to a wide network of authorised repair centres across the UK, making it convenient to get your van fixed.

Flexible plans: 
Various warranty options to suit different van ages and mileage, allowing tailored protection to fit individual needs.

Roadside assistance: 
Often includes emergency breakdown assistance for added security on the road.

Vehicle hire:
Up to £75 per day (for a maximum of 10 days) to help while your van is being repaired.

Transferable warranty: 
Some policies allow the warranty to be transferred to new owners, enhancing resale value.

No extra fees: 
Many plans have no or low fees, reducing your out-of-pocket costs during repairs. You can, however, offer to pay a voluntary contribution towards your re[pair request to bring the costs of the repair down.

Manufacturer-approved: 
Backed by a trusted company with a good reputation for customer service and repair request handling.

Peace of mind: 
Helps business owners avoid large unexpected repair bills, allowing better financial planning.

Conclusion:

When purchasing a used van, it’s essential to think beyond the initial price tag.

While the cost of the vehicle itself is often the first thing buyers focus on, there are several additional expenses that can significantly impact your overall budget. These include insurance premiums, regular fuel costs, maintenance and unexpected repairs that can arise as the vehicle ages.

To protect yourself from those surprise repair bills and enjoy greater peace of mind, consider taking out a Warrantywise plan. Our comprehensive plans helps safeguard you against unforeseen issues, so you can keep your van on the road and your business running smoothly without worrying about costly breakdowns.

Sources

[1] Driving an electric or hydrogen-powered vehicle – GOV.UK
[2] https://www.loadsofvans.com/blog/van-depreciation-rates