Our vehicles are often considered one of the biggest assets we own so it’s understandable that we take our time to find the right one when shopping. This approach doesn’t just apply to domestic vehicles though … those shopping for a business vehicle will also need to give plenty of thought to their final choice to ensure they get the best value for money.
Here are five questions to ask to make sure you find the right commercial vans for the task at hand.
1. Is it big enough?
While many people feel that ‘bigger is better’ it should be remembered that an overly bulky vehicle could do more harm than good – to the environment and to your wallet. You need to make sure your chosen van is big enough to suit your needs without going overboard.
Think carefully about what you’ll need to transport in your van and then choose the size accordingly.
2. Is it reliable?
There’s nothing worse than investing in the car or van of your dreams only to have it turn into a nightmare once you get it out of the showroom. For this reason, it’s wise to research prospective vehicle purchases before parting your cash and look for something with a proven track record for reliability. Sticking with models from big brands – such as the Fiat Doblo is always recommended.
3. Is it safe?
This applies to you and your passengers as well as your cargo. The purpose of commercial vans is to transport large quantities of people or materials for more efficient business use so take a look at the NCAP ratings to see how they stand up to rigorous testing and see how they’re manufactured to give structural stability that protects your cargo.
4. Does it present the right image?
A commercial vehicle is more than just a practical tool – it’s a style statement. While the functionality should be your main priority it is also important to consider how it looks on the road and whether this portrays the right image for your business.
5. Is it affordable?
Remember to consider long term running costs here, not just the purchase price. As a commercial vehicle you’ll want your van to be sustainable to run and that means evaluating the fuel economy beforehand is vital. You may also want to consider what manufacturer guarantees are offered and what average repair costs are likely to be charged at.
