Tips for Buying a Used Commercial Van

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Whether you're starting as an independent business owner or are looking to add to your commercial fleet, you want to save as much money as possible. More “seasoned” commercial vans are affordable while still offering the durability and reliability to meet the needs of your business. The used van market also offers a wide variety of options, allowing you the flexibility to find the vehicle to match your comfort level. 

 

But just like purchasing a regular car or van, you need to do your homework - or you might end up wasting your time and money. To help you with your purchase, here are expert tips for buying used commercial vehicles:

 

Do your research.

The first (and most important step)in buying any used commercial van is to gather as much information as possible about the vehicle before deciding if it’s the right purchase for your business. The main ways to obtain the necessary information are:

  • Physically inspecting the van, including structural and mechanical pieces, tire treads, and mileage. 

  • Researching the vehicle history including prior usage and maintenance and repair records. Additionally, search public records using the vehicle identification number (VIN) to obtain accident history and traffic records.  

 

Consider technology.

Technology can help or hinder you and your team’s productivity. If the technology is more advanced than you’re used to, there could be an operational learning curve. However, used Sprinter Vans offer innovative safety and technological features - helping you work smarter and faster while allowing you to focus on your business. Some of these traffic boosting awareness features include the radar-based systems Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keep Assist. For more added safety, optional enhanced features include a Parking Package with a 360-degree camera and Emergency Call (ECall). 

(Note that all features are not available on all vehicles.)

 

Evaluate the TCO.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is calculated by adding vehicle purchase cost and ownership costs (i.e. regular maintenance and repairs, insurance) tires and then subtracting its resale value. When you research a vehicle's history and condition, you can estimate the average cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as any potential problems that may need to be addressed later. Determining an acceptable TCO that fits your budget will give you specific criteria for evaluating used trucks and vans.

Sprinter Vans continually have the lowest TCO in their class, according to research by Vincentric,™*. Factors involved in calculating TCO include maintenance costs, fuel costs, and overall retained value. With proper care and regularly-scheduled maintenance, your Sprinter Van retains its value for years to come. 

 

“The Sprinter Van offers the most efficiency, quality, and retained value in its class,” said Phil Landsman, Sprinter Brand Manager. “We enjoy assisting vocational customers and business owners save money, and Sprinter allows them to save more over time, making it the best choice for their bottom line.”

 

Southport Truck Group maintains a large inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles from which to choose. Our number one priority is providing nothing less than an outstanding experience - whether in sales, service, or financing. Call us today at 813-262-0890 (Tampa) / 239-210-9480 (Fort Myers) or stop by one of our convenient locations so we can help you find just the right Sprinter Van to fit your business needs!

 

Southport Truck Group is an authorized Freightliner Sprinter dealership in Southwest Florida. 

 

Sources

https://selectrucks.com/blog/five-things-to-look-for/ 

https://www.freightlinersprinterusa.com/freightliner/home 

 
Location: 7528 US-301, Tampa, FL 33637, USA

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