Van Buying, Selling & Ownership Guidance
Whether you use your van for work or personal use, understanding how value, condition, and running costs affect it can help you make better decisions. This guide covers buying, selling, maintaining, and valuing vans, so you know what to expect at every stage. If you’re considering selling your van, our car selling guidance explains how the process works and what to expect.
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How van values work
Van values are influenced by slightly different factors than cars. Usage, mileage, payload, and condition play a bigger role, especially for trade buyers. To understand how values are calculated, see our car valuation guidance.
Common influences include:
Mileage and service history
Type of work the van has been used for
Body condition and interior wear
Age, emissions class, and running costs
See our guide on How van valuations work
Buying and selling vans
Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or leaving self-employment, understanding the market helps you get a fair deal.
Selling a van
If your van is still running and roadworthy, selling it privately or to a dealer may give the best return.
Buying a used van
Knowing what to check before buying can save thousands in repairs and downtime.
Van condition, mileage & maintenance
Van buyers pay close attention to wear and tear, especially if the vehicle has been used commercially. Regular upkeep plays a big role in resale value — our car maintenance guidance explains what matters most.
Things that affect value:
High mileage and service history
Bodywork damage and interior condition
Load area wear
Mechanical reliability
Scrapping or selling a van
When repairs become uneconomical, scrapping may be the better option — but it’s not always the right one.
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If you’re thinking of selling or replacing your van, you can check its current value in seconds.
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Based on current market demand
Helps you decide whether to sell, repair, or keep
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Learn how to prepare your van for a quick sale, understand how mileage and condition affect your valuation, and discover the best ways to compare genuine offers online.
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Van Selling Guidance
Van Buying, Selling & Ownership Guidance Whether you use your van for work or personal use, understanding how value, condition, and running costs affect it
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What documents do I need to sell my van?
To sell your van, you’ll need your V5C logbook, MOT certificate, service history, and receipts for any repairs or accessories. Buyers also appreciate seeing previous ownership records and proof of mileage.
If your V5C is missing, you can apply for a replacement online through the DVLA.
How do I get the best price when selling my van?
Preparing your van properly can make a big difference to both the speed of sale and the price you achieve. Clean the load area and cabin, remove tools or personal items, fix cheap cosmetic issues, check the tyres and lights, and make sure all warning lights are dealt with.
You can follow our step-by-step guide on how to prepare your van for sale.
Is it better to sell my van privately or through my business?
Selling privately can sometimes achieve a higher price, but it usually takes more time and involves dealing with enquiries and viewings yourself. Selling through your business or to a trade buyer is often faster and more straightforward, with secure payment and less admin, even if the final price is slightly lower.
We compare both options in our guide sell my van privately or business so you can decide what suits you best.
How can I get the best price when selling my van?
To get the best price, combine good preparation with realistic pricing. Make sure the van is clean, tidy and mechanically sound, gather all documents, and be clear about how it’s been used (trade, courier, personal). A well-presented van with a solid history can justify a stronger asking price.
Our how to prepare your van for sale guide includes a checklist of quick wins that help maximise value.
What’s different about selling a van used for business?
When selling a van that’s been used for business, buyers will often want to know how it was used (e.g. building, delivery, courier work), typical loads carried and whether the van has been sign-written or modified. You may also need extra documents for your own records, such as invoices or proof of sale for your accounts.
We explain the key points in our guide sell my van privately or business.
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