Which van to buy

Drop-sides : An open top with shallow sides that drop down for easy access. On the Vanarama website the length of a wheelbase will be denoted by 'L' on van descriptions. For example, an L3 Ford Transit Van will be the tallest option available.

Don't forget to consider extra equipment when you choose your wheelbase. If you need grabs, hoists or a tail lift for example, the wheelbase must be able to accommodate these.

So always double check sizing if you are comparing different vans. Much like the lengths, the heights of a body type will be denoted by 'H' on van descriptions. The best body type will normally be the smallest one to do the job as this will be the most fuel efficient. Before selecting a low, medium or high roof there are some things to consider:.

Are there any height or length limitations where you will use the van? Few manufacturers will specify a tyre preference when customers order a new van, but there is usually an option to upgrade to alloy wheels. Van cabins have improved a lot over the last 10 years. For any commercial vehicle, running costs are a key consideration. When choosing your new van it's important to take into account:.

Finance Lease. Contract Hire. Contract Purchase. Personal Contract Hire. Head back to our van leasing explained hub or take a look at our latest van leasing deals. With a legacy stretching back to , the model has undergone regular refinement to ensure that performance, efficiency, and running costs continue to be the best available.

Another model from the renowned Transit range that provides the utmost in reliability is the compact Ford Transit Connect. With an array of body types available - ranging from haulage options to people carriers - the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter not only features the exceptional build quality associated with this high-end manufacturer, but also the performance. With five engine options and a versatile load space, choosing the Transporter will prove rewarding.

Also boasting the attributes of the Volkswagen marque is the Volkswagen Caddy. Stylish, agile, and available in a range of engine sizes, the Caddy is among the most popular compact vans in the UK for good reason. Powerful and stylish, with a cabin that offers a car-like quality, the Mercedes-Benz Vito is pleasant to drive and capable of any task.

Tough, practical, and with surprisingly good fuel economy, the Vauxhall Vivaro ticks all the boxes for value for money. Another compact commercial vehicle with different body length options available, the Citroen Berlingo offers a car-like drive complemented by a practical loadspace.

Well equipped with in-car features, this modern commercial model will prove a valuable addition to your business. With an award-winning pedigree, the heavy-duty Vauxhall Movano is as dependable as they come.

Front or rear-wheel drive options work alongside the various load lengths, heights, engine options, and more to ensure there is a model to suit you. Any van can become a campervan with the right conversion, and more and more Brits are discovering the joys of creating their own home-from-home on wheels. A couple of the most popular type of vans to convert into a campervan are the Vauxhall Vivaro and the VW Transporter.

For many businesses, the cargo capacity of a commercial van is their most important consideration. We've created a handy graphic that details exactly what each of the main van types can carry, take a look at it here. When choosing a used van, it's not always all about cargo space. Things like headroom and the number of passengers you need to transport can also have a bearing on what type of van will work best for your business.

Many vans come with three different height options, either H1, H2 or H3. H1 is the designation for standard height roofs, while H2 means that the roof height is higher than standard, and H3 means that the roof is super-high. While all van manufacturers use these codes to identify headroom, you might come across different dimensions for the codes. Check the actual measurements of the van instead of just basing your decision on a H designation.

If you're looking to transport multiple passengers with your cargo, you want to look for a double cab van instead of a regular panel van. Double cab vans include a second row of seats behind the driver's seat, much like a car, but they still have plenty of cargo space behind the second row.

If you're looking for a van that can comfortably transport five passengers, a double cab van, such as a Citroen Berlingo Crew or Ford Transit Courier Crew , could be the best choice for your business.

If you want to make sure that you can still carry all the equipment or product that you need to, focus on longer wheelbases. Along with bountiful active safety technology, the Metris boasts a large touchscreen with contemporary features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Although the Metris isn't as refined as the company's snazziest offerings, it's still one of the most sophisticated and capable vans on the market.

The Ford Transit Connect has the configurability that appeals to tradespeople as well as those who value versatility. This city van can be equipped for hauling up to seven people or hollowed out for transporting stuff, depending on whether the cargo van or the passenger wagon is selected. Ford also offers the choice of a short or long wheelbase, symmetrical rear doors or a rear liftgate, and two different four-cylinder powertrains.

Despite its pragmatic personality and bouncy ride quality, the little van has nimble driving characteristics that will be appreciated in traffic and tight spaces. With its countless configurations and a long list of popular options, the Transit Connect proves it's quite a useful tool. Ford offers scores of configurations to fit into your needs, plus a host of driver-assistance features standard.

Whatever the job requirements or family needs, the Transit is up to it. New Cars. Buyer's Guide. Type keyword s to search. Today's Top Stories.