How to sell your van - essential advice on selling a van privately | Checkatrade
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How to sell your van – essential advice on selling a van privately

When it comes to selling a van privately, there are many things you need to consider. That’s why we’ve created a handy guide filled with top tips and insights to help you out.

Getting ready to sell your van

First, you’ll need to gather all the essential information about your van, such as make, model, year, and mileage.

It’s also important to consider your van’s overall condition. A van in a better condition and less mileage will sell for a higher price!

Then, note any extras it may have. For instance, a tow bar, interior racking, or additional security will make it more valuable and easier to sell.

Next, it’s time to carry out some market research. You should search for vans for sale that are similar in spec and mileage as yours, and price yours accordingly.

Specialist free van pricing tools, like Honest Used Van Prices or Price Any Van, provide a guideline that’ll give you a general feel for the value.

Alternatively, scruffy examples with little or no history will sit at the lower end of the price scale.

How to prepare your van for sale to boost its value

Repair damage to van ready to sell

First, consider paying for any small repairs that may have been on your ‘to-do’ list for some time. For instance, repairing body scuffs or glaring scratches may help boost the price.

And if the MoT has less than six months left, renew it. This will make your van more desirable.

The same goes for essential servicing: a smooth-running van will be a lot more attractive than one that takes a few attempts to start.

Next, put all of the van’s paperwork in a plastic folder. This should contain the V5C (logbook), vehicle manual, service history, MOT certificate and receipts for recent repair work.

Then make sure all of the documents are in chronological order. This makes it easy for a potential buyer to see how well you’ve cared for the van.

Another key thing to do is spend some time cleaning your van. Clean it to the standard you’d like to buy it in, focusing on both the interior and exterior.

You should wash and polish your van, vacuum it thoroughly, and clean your seats and windows. Remove all your personal items to make sure the van looks fully presentable.

Do I have to pay to advertise my van for sale?

In some cases, yes. But small businesses and sole traders are increasingly using social media, like Twitter and Facebook, to advertise their vans.

Online trade forums are also becoming increasingly popular sales platforms, allowing potential buyers to ask questions before arranging a viewing.

If you work on a building site, it might also be worth putting a ‘For Sale’ sign in the window. Be sure to include your phone number and key details about the van’s MOT, mileage and service history.

What is the best place to sell a van?

Take your pick – you can do it on social media (Facebook local groups or marketplace), eBay, or specific vehicle sale websites, like AutoTrader.

Or go to your local dealership and see if they’ll buy your van from you.

Can I use eBay to sell my van?

You can. eBay is a popular choice for selling second-hand vans; they have more than 30,000 listings for vans and pick-ups. eBay is also a great place to sell commercial vehicles.

If you haven’t used eBay, make sure you do your research on fees and what’s required to start selling on eBay.

How can I sell my van quickly?

The best way to quickly sell your van is to list it online at a reasonable price. Your advert should contain all the correct information and clear, varied images.

When it comes to taking advert photos, ensure you have a clear shot of the front three-quarters of the van. Also snap pictures of the front, side, rear and interior. Keep the wording of the advert honest and straightforward, avoiding technical phrases buyers may not understand.

If you have a social media account, it’s a good idea to post a link there to boost visibility. Who knows, a friend might even be interested in buying your vehicle. 

What happens once my van is sold?

Many sole traders look to buy a van for their business, so if you’re hoping to sell yours, there’s always demand. It may sell quickly, so you need to be prepared.

Once you’ve successfully sold your van, you’ll need to notify the DVLA that you no longer have ownership. As the seller, it’s your responsibility to make the DVLA aware of this change.

You’ll also need to hand over all the paperwork to the new owner (including the bottom section of the V5C). It’s important to make sure they have all the necessary documentation on hand.

Do you need a new van for your trade business?

If you’re a business owner looking for transport, you’re probably wondering whether to buy or lease a van. Well, there are pros and cons to both, so it’s important you carefully consider each option.

Whether you buy or lease, we can get you an exclusive rate

All of our Checkatrade members get exclusive deals on several crucial things for their business, including vans.

Whether you want to lease or buy your next van, if you pass our checks to become a Checkatrade member, you can bag yourself exclusive deals.

Even better, you can save each time you fill up your new van with our Esso perk!

Turn your new van into effective advertisement for your trade business

When you have a shiny new van and you come to wrap it with your business logo, wouldn’t it be great if you could add a sign of quality and trust?

That’s what Checkatrade can do for you.

Anyone who sees your van will know you’re a quality tradesperson who managed to pass our checks and become an approved Checkatrade trade.

Here’s every reason why you should take on the Checkatrade checks to become an approved trade in your local area!

Every reason to become a member

Get more customers, get exclusive deals, grow your business

Find out more
Content disclaimer: This content has been created for general information purposes and should not be taken as formal advice. Read our full disclaimer here.
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