Losing business because your van's not up to scratch?

A scruffy or damaged van is likely to put off potential customers

HAVE you ever put in a reasonable quote for a job then wondered why you didn’t get it? It could be down to the condition of your van, according to van specialists Vanarama.

The company is warning tradespeople such as plumbers and electricians, joiners and painter-decorators, that the state of their work vehicle is likely to have a major influence on whether or not they get a job.

In a survey of 2000 people conducted by Vanarama more than half (51%) of respondents said that they would worry about how good a tradesman was if they were unable afford to drive a decent work vehicle.

What people think of you (and your van)

51% of customers would judge the quality of your work by the condition of your van
70% think it’s important for tradespeople to dress properly
93% want tradespeople to have certified technical skills

The Vanarama research also underscored the importance of tradespeople being able to demonstrate evidence of certified technical skills.

Almost all (93%) of those questioned said this was important to inspire confidence in the work to be done. And 70% also said how tradespeople dressed when they called was important. The condition of a business vehicle was a major factor in providing confidence in their work according to 63% of respondents.

Regionally, Londoners appear to be the most concerned about the condition of a tradesperson’s van with 69% saying this was important. Customers in Scotland seem to be the least concerned at 58%.

And nearly half (49%) of those questioned said the age of a vehicle was also important, while almost two thirds (59%) said seeing a company logo on a vehicle gives confidence in the quality of work to be done, with 18-24 year olds most concerned about this at 74% compared with only 47% of those aged 65 and over.

Vanarama managing director Andy Alderson told Business Vans the condition of a company van for a tradesperson was vital to make a good first impression and instil confidence in customers.

He said: “With the economic outlook in the construction sector and related trades particularly good at the moment, it would be easy for tradespeople to think they don’t need to worry about the condition of the van they drive.

“But we believe our research highlights that to make the most of the current market opportunities, having the best tools for the job – including a smart and up to date van – will pay dividends.”