A comprehensive guide to buying a used van

In the market for a used van? You’ll need to make a plan. From where to buy to the most reliable used vans in the UK, our guide can help you find the right vehicle.

One of the first questions to ask when buying a used van is ‘What will I use it for?’ Whether collecting and moving large items or delivering goods, you’ll need to make sure it is equipped to do the job you need.

Do you value space or power more? Is fuel efficiency a key consideration? Think about the features you actually use and factor this into your search. Also, just how much does a used van cost? And will your budget cover this?

As you’re buying second-hand, you’ll need to ensure the van is up to scratch and roadworthy…

What should I check for when buying a second-hand van?

When you’re buying a used van, you need to take the time to do some research so you know what you’re looking for. Once you find a van that might be right for you, you should perform a Vehicle History Check.

Available via gov.uk or telephone enquiry, this allows you to check a vehicle’s details, tax and SORN status and expiry dates on the DVLA database. A Vehicle History Check provides the following information:

• Current tax rate and expiry
• SORN status
• MOT date
• Registration date
• Last V5C issue date
• Type approval category
• Weight
• Engine size
• Fuel type
• Emissions

This information can be useful when requesting a quote for annual or temporary van insurance.

You should also check if the van has been looked after and regularly maintained. The service history logs all the servicing and MOTs a van has been through - right back to the original purchase. If the seller is unable to provide a service history, you should consider backing out.

You can check the MOT history of a vehicle via gov.uk by entering the vehicle’s registration number. This will show you the dates, mileage logged, failures and any faults that were flagged during an MOT test. You can compare all of these against what the seller has told you.

Does mileage matter? The average UK van drives 12,195 miles a year [1] and while this is important, a van with high mileage could still be the right option for you. It’s more important to check the maintenance log and consider the van's overall condition.

Mileage is not the overriding factor in whether to buy or not. It’s more the maintenance that plays a key part in how long a van will last and its overall condition. Check the bodywork of the vehicle and its lights, tyres and suspension. If something feels off to you, trust your instincts and consider walking away. There’s likely to be an alternative option.

Best second-hand vans

If you want to save money and buy a van quickly, browsing the second-hand market could be the most effective option. Do your research before looking at a van in person so you can understand the market and what you should be looking out for.

Tempcover’s guide to the best vans for new drivers highlighted the following vans as good choices for beginners, meaning they’ll be affordable and convenient if you’re looking for somewhere to start:

1. Volkswagen Caddy Cargo
2. Renault Kangoo
3. Mercedes Citan

Be wary of dishonest traders. If something feels off or wrong, it probably is. Trust your instincts.

How much does a used van cost?

Used van prices will vary depending on age, condition and the seller’s requirements. If they’re looking for a quick sale, you might be able to buy one for a lower price. They’re likely to cost more if buying from an approved dealer.

Other aspects that might affect the price of a used van:

• Mileage
• General condition
• Make and model
• Any additional features like a tow bar or racking

What documents do I need to buy a second-hand van?

Don’t overlook the paperwork when it comes to buying a second-hand van. You’ll need the following to purchase the van:

• V5C logbook Check the address, registration number, and VIN. Ensure the address where you’re viewing the van matches the one listed on the V5C. If you want to buy the van, the seller needs to complete the change of ownership section and send it to the DVLA. They’ll also need to complete the green section and give it to you.
• MOT certificate
• Full service history
• Road tax (VED)

Where can I buy a used van?

• Approved dealer: The price of the van might be higher, but you can sometimes be more assured of the quality and take advantage of offers and after-sales benefits.
• Independent dealer: Buying a van from an independent or private seller could be significantly cheaper, but there are unlikely to be many offers or after-sales services offered.
• Home trader: Home traders are bound by the same laws as approved and independent dealers.
• Online trader: Autotrader, The AA, eBay and online/social media marketplaces also sell used vans. Make sure you see the van in person before handing over any money.
• Auction: This could be a very risky option as there won’t be much time to either view the van or take it out for a test drive.

Can I test drive a used van?

Yes, you can test drive a used van. To get a feel for how it drives and whether it could potentially be the right vehicle for you, you should take a test drive for at least 20 minutes.

You need insurance to legally drive any vehicle on a public road in the UK, so don’t forget your temporary van insurance - you could cover yourself for just an hour!

When it comes to taking the test drive, check the exterior and interior (do the doors lock, do the seatbelts work?), start the engine from cold and keep an ear out for any strange or unusual noises. Make sure the steering wheel is responsive, look out for smoke coming from the engine and anything else that doesn’t feel right.

If anything doesn’t quite feel right, either walk away or prepare to politely challenge the seller.

When is the best time to buy a used van?

Vehicle registration plates are updated every March and September. There is often an increase in people trading in their vans at these times and at the end of each quarter as dealerships evaluate their sales targets. Keep an eye out as people might be selling their old vans privately while they look at new ones.

Do I need insurance to buy a used van?

You’ll need insurance to test drive a van and if you plan on driving it away after purchasing on the same day. It’s illegal to drive without insurance and you could get the following penalties:

• A fixed penalty of £300
• 6 penalty points

If the case goes to court, you could get:

• An unlimited fine
• Disqualified from driving

The police can even seize and possibly destroy any vehicle that’s being driven uninsured.

Buying a used van for business

Whatever the size of your business, if you need a van that is affordable and reliable to run. If your business is in the market for a used van, you need to do your research and ensure you have the correct documentation as described above.

You should look out for signs of rust or wear and tear, check the engine and test the lights. Think about how much you will be transporting and the size of van you need to do your job effectively.

Whether buying a used van for personal or professional use, ultimately the decision is yours and will depend on your preference, budget and needs. Don’t compromise on your values and make sure that whichever used van you choose is able to do exactly what you need.

[1] Average mileage based on facts and figures from the number of light good vehicles and annual road traffic on gov.uk.