If you’re looking for a commercial vehicle but resources are tight you might consider the used van market. It’s possible to pick up a great van at a bargain price but, as with any purchase of a second-hand vehicle, you should take care before you complete any transaction.
Buying privately
Buying a used van from a private seller is often the cheapest option as there are not usually any overheads beyond possible advertising costs and the vehicle will typically be ‘sold as seen’. It’s possible to grab a real bargain this way but it’s also a case of ‘buyer beware’. If you buy from a private seller you have fewer legal safeguards than if you buy from a dealer.
The law does require that the seller has the right to sell the van in the first place, that it matches the description given by the seller and that it is roadworthy. For vans over 3 years old this means it must have a valid MOT certificate but bear in mind that an MOT only pertains to the vehicle’s roadworthiness on the day it was issued. An old MOT certificate does not guarantee that a vehicle is still roadworthy now.
It is usually worth getting a used vehicle checked out by an independent mechanic. You should also check all the legal documents and make sure the vehicle identification number (VIN) matches that on the documents.
If you are ever in doubt about a seller or vehicle, don’t go ahead with the transaction. Thousands of used vans are listed for sale so there will always be another one to try.
Using a dealer or used vehicle programme
It’s also possible to find good value used vans being offered by dealers or used vehicle programmes like Network Q.
You will have more protection if you buy your used van from a dealer. Dealers are obliged to prepare a vehicle before listing it, including verifying the recorded mileage and checking to see if it has been reported stolen or the VIN tampered with. The Sale of Goods Act also applies and states that the vehicle must be as described, of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose.
Many dealers and programmes will also offer their own guarantees. Network Q, for example, offers warranties on vehicles under 7 years old and with less than 70,000 miles. They also carry out a multipoint check covering every major mechanical component and all vital safety and security checks.