Used LCVs: Risks and Benefits

Light commercial vehicles are mostly used by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Such transport serves as a working tool of a B2B nature. It performs the ever-increasing role of moving goods and services at local and regional scales.

The LCV market sector is prominent in a way that it indicates the health of the country’s economy. The greater the demand for commercial vans is, the more popular the products their owners provide.

Some major businesses generally acquire new vans, when there is the need for up to date vehicles with a high level of reliability and a low emission level.

As for the market of used vehicles, it is rather competitive due to cost-effectiveness of such offers. Besides, such vans are durable enough to endure several ‘business lives’.

Buying a used LCV one should be aware of the possible risks. According to statistics, 1 in 4 vans has at least something to hide, 1 in 8 vans is still on a finance agreement (so, the legal owner can claim the vehicle back), 1 in 17 vans is likely to have been damaged in an accident and given a write-off status by an insurance company (however, repaired and returned to the road).

To avoid risks there are special services (e.g. HPI Check in the UK) aimed to investigate vehicle’s history.

The economic benefits of used LCVs justify the risks. But the process of choosing a quality and clean van with a moderate mileage requires much effort and technical expertise.

The division of light commercial vehicles normally includes 2 main categories. The first is based on the distances involved. It’s essential for urban delivery vans to cope with heavy traffic and narrow streets and have easy access to the cargo area. In case of intra-urban delivery, greater carrying capacity takes the lead while manoeuvrability is of less importance.

The second category implies functionality. Single-service models are chosen when there is one primary task: to move either passengers or loads. Multiple-service vans in its turn can be adjustable for both functions. This division influences the interior design and determines or eliminates the necessity of an extra row of seats, a bulkhead, a sliding side door, etc.

The financial aspect combines the price of the offer itself and the running costs. Along with paying an outright sum for a van, there are such options as the contract hire or leasing route.

The price range of second-hand vans for sale on the LCV market tends to vary throughout the year. Traditionally, it is characterized by summertime seasonality when the prices rise. Though recently, the impact of seasonality has been minimized.