MANY van drivers are likely to be tradesmen looking to keep costs as low as possible, buying a used vehicle is one of the most effective ways of achieving this. Considering the heavy duty use vans are put through and the considerable distances they travel, buying a van that is fit for purpose is essential. Our guide provides the necessary information you need to buy your used van with confidence.
Do not be afraid to negotiate the price. Remember 20% of vans change hands each year
The main factors to consider when buying a used van is whether to purchase a petrol or diesel vehicle. Approximately 95% of vans are now diesel powered in the UK, but this popularity is being tackled by the Government and London Mayor Boris Johnson, who has called upon the Government to implement a nationwide diesel car scrapping scheme. This is to include all diesel cars and vans over a year old. As 3% of vans are 20 or more years old this will effect over 100,000 drivers. If the scheme is approved, the owners of the vehicles to be scrapped would be paid between £1,000 and £2,000 for their vehicles[1].
In July 2014 Mr Johnson also announced that drivers of diesel vans face an extra £10 on top of the existing congestion charge to drive into central London, which in 2020, is due to be designated an ultra-low emissions zone. As almost half (44%) of UK registered vans visit London each year this will also effect a sizable number of van drivers. The move is also being considered by other British cities, as they search for ways to reduce diesel fumes in a bid to reach EU clean air targets.
[1] Sourced from www.racfoundation.org/research/mobility/van-travel-trends-in-great-britain-report
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