Commercial vehicle manufacturers have seen impressive growth in vehicle sales in recent years. In the year to November 2007, some three hundred and fifty thousand vehicles were registered, an increase of three percent on the previous year.

BUYING A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE

NEW VEHICLES
The purchase of a new van, truck or lorry is a major capital investment. Thorough research is required to locate a vehicle that will best suit your purposes. There are a great number of commercial vehicle websites, since most of the major car manufacturers have sections dedicated to vans, etc. However, inspection of several sites suggests that the content is biased towards the "trade," rather than prospective buyers. Personal recommendation, by someone using a vehicle for a similar purpose to your intended use, is perhaps the best way of choosing the right vehicle. Otherwise, many websites offer detailed vehicle reviews and many vehicles for sale. Price is a leading consideration. Along with the purchase price, running costs, depreciation and potential resale value all need to be considered.

If contemplating the purchase of any type of commercial vehicle, compile a detailed list of the desirable / undesirable features. Determine the options available within your allocated budget and thoroughly research the specifications of these vehicles. Carefully consider the uses to which the vehicle is likely to be put. This will pretty much decide the type of vehicle required, which might be a "micro" van, 4 x 4, pickup truck, larger panel van or flat-bed lorry. Some further considerations might be:

Fuel Economy
Smaller models with four-cylinder capacity are more economical on fuel than their V6 counterparts.

Operating Costs
While micro vans offer better fuel economy, larger vans can often be easier to maintain.

Safety
Mini vans are among the safest vehicles on the road. However, research the crash test rating of any new van in which you might be interested.

Finance Options
Experts will advise leasing for those who want a new van every few years, along with lower monthly payments. However, it is advisable to consider that leasing companies use a given mileage to determine the depreciated worth of the vehicle at the end of the lease term. If this mileage limit is exceeded, further charges are incurred. Loans are probably the best options for drivers who travel varying distances and want to own their vehicle outright.

USED VEHICLES
As with the purchase of any used vehicle, buying a used commercial vehicle can be a "minefield." Research the specification of any prospective purchase to ensure that it suit the purpose for which it is required.

Cost
The price of a vehicle will be based on several factors such as age, condition, mileage and repair history. The Internet provides an invaluable resource for determining the "going rate" for similar models. Before approaching a seller, it is a worthwhile exercise to print a lower Internet quote for a similar vehicle, highlighting the fact that better deals are available.

Inspection
Thorough inspection of the vehicle is vital. If possible, take a qualified person from the motor trade to perform such an inspection. The AA, amongst others, offers vehicle inspection services. While such an inspection may cost in excess of �100, this is far better than buying a "dog" that will cost you many times more in repairs.

Test Drive
Driving the vehicle is also imperative. Used vans can handle very differently, depending on how they have been driven previously. Taking a friend is worthwhile as they can listen out for any unusual noises, while you concentrate on driving.

Maintenance
Inspect the levels of oil, water / antifreeze, brake and clutch fluid, along with power steering fluid (where applicable), in order to determine how well the vehicle has been looked after in the past.

Gearbox
Ensure that gears change up and down smoothly, with no grating or grinding. Too much "play" in the clutch pedal may indicate worn bearings.

Tyres and Brakes
Check tyres for even wear and ensure that all treads conform to legal requirements. Grinding or squeaking brakes are often an indication of worn pads and / or shoes. When braking hard, if the vehicle swerves or skids, the cause must be investigated.

Mileage
Used vehicles are notorious for having their recorded mileages altered by unscrupulous vendors. If you suspect that this may be the case, the overall condition of the vehicle, both exterior and interior, is often a giveaway. If still in any doubt, walk away!

Documentation
Examine all the associated paperwork carefully, noting anything that appears unusual. Be certain to view MOT certificates and a full service history. The V5 (log book) will show the number of previous owners. If purchasing from a dealer, ascertain how long they have had the vehicle. Dealers like to "turn over" stock quickly, and if the vehicle has stood on the forecourt for a considerable time, they may be open to a lower offer.
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06 March 2010
LUTON VAN..
Luton van ldv 400 series td 3. 5t van good condition. genuine low mileage. ex mod vehicle. please call 6. 00pm 07860883092 or 0121 6018180 .
£1,000
B71
22 February 2010
Ford Transit Minibus For Sale..
15 seater ford transit lwb minibus for sale. 05 reg, 45,000 miles, good condition. priced for a quick sale. .
£5,200
WA10
21 February 2010
Vans, Van loans, commercial vehicle loans and leases..
Vans, van loans & leases, commercial vehicle loans and leases from www. vanloans. me. uk looking for a van, van loan, commercial van finance, 4x4 loans, minibus finance in fact are you looking for any commercial vehicle finance or a commercial vehicle loan ? want fast, . .
12 February 2010
Cheap FIAT Ducato JTD 2.8 (Ex Ambulance)..
Stripped to convert to burger van. changed my mind due to acquisition of bigger van. high miles 240000 but nice thick service history from kent ambulance who have obviously maintained it to very high standard. rear air suspension (working) very quick vehicle with its 2,8 turbo d. .
£850
SO15
06 February 2010
mk1 caddy pick up breaking ..
Most psrts available.
TS25
24 January 2010
transit semi hightop roofbars..
2part roof bar front section 2 legs and crossbars rear section 4 leg and 4 crossbar with rear roller was fitted to 98 smiley front but may fit others that have gutter also fits normal roof but sits higher.
£30
KA3
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