Once you’ve decided to sell a van, it helps to look closer at what influences the asking price. One of the biggest advantages of selling to a dealer is this won’t make such a big difference. However, if you’re selling privately, it definitely can!
Even the time of year you sell can make a difference. The demand for vans changes according to the season: for instance, spring and summer are the peak times for tradespeople, delivery business and construction firms. Selling in late winter or early spring can therefore mean higher offers.
This is not the best time to sell privately. Towards the end of the year, demand might dip slightly as budgets are tighter. However, delivery firms may still require additional vehicles to handle an increase in Christmas and January sale deliveries. The economy can also have a big impact.
What Affects the Price of Your Vehicle?
Firstly, both the exterior and inner workings will make the biggest difference. Our dealers will look at the condition of your van in Slough, ensuring you get a fair quotation for your vehicle.
Secondly, there’s the mileage. Generally, the lower, the better. Because vans are usually used for work, a high mileage indicates it’s not got much life left. As a rough estimate, vans with fewer than 80,000 miles are considered in better condition by most dealers.
The Age of your Van
Obviously newer vans tend to be in better condition, so will sell for a higher price, especially if they’re from a top brand like Ford, Volkswagen, or Mercedes-Benz. Although vans over a decade old will struggle to command a high price, that can happen if they’re in exceptional condition or are a rare model.
The Mechanical Condition
Our dealers can come to your site in Slough and assess your van’s condition, looking at such features as:
- Engine performance. A well-maintained engine can add significant value.
- The history of your vehicle. Always keep a log of servicing, MOTs, and repairs: this can reassure buyers about how reliable your van will be.
- Tyre condition and brakes. Worn tyres or faulty brakes can reduce the van’s value.
- Bodywork and interior. Scratches, dents, and rust can decrease the resale value. It always helps to repair minor damage before selling. A clean, well-maintained interior—free of stains or excessive wear—can make a strong impression on potential buyers.
Market Demand and Supply
Our dealers in Slough will also evaluate the market by considering the current popularity of different models. Vans that are fuel-efficient, have a decent local capacity and have modern features are much more sought after.
We also look at emerging trends. Electric vans for instance are also becoming increasingly popular. If you have an electric or hybrid model, it’s much more likely to sell for a higher price.
Other Ways Dealers Determine Your Van’s Value
Sell the Van using a combination of tools and expertise to calculate the trade-in or purchase value of your van.
Along with online valuation tools, we physically inspect your vehicle. This allows us to get a better idea of its condition, taking a look at bodywork, mechanical performance and the condition of the interior.
Vans depreciate at varying rates depending on the brand, usage, and condition. Dealers calculate this depreciation to estimate how much of the van’s original value remains. We also reference auction prices and wholesale market data to gauge the current selling price of vans similar to yours.
How Can I Increase My Van’s Value?
If you want to achieve the best possible price for your van, there are a number of steps you can take:
- Fix minor issues with your van. This can include smaller repairs, cleaning the interior thoroughly, and ensuring the van is fully serviced. We can buy vans which don’t have a MOT or service history, but the price is likely to be higher if we have them.
- Provide full documentation. A comprehensive service history will instantly make your vehicle more appealing.
- Always consider the perspective of dealers. Although we look to provide the best price, it’s vital to be realistic about your van’s value.
- Get a quotation from multiple dealers. This will ensure that you get a competitive price. Here at Sell The Van we always look to provide the best price possible.
Should You Sell Privately or to a Dealer in Slough?
Our dealers are ideal if you’re after a quick sale and less hassle. We come straight to your home or business in Slough and collect your van. Selling privately can often mean a higher price, but that isn’t guaranteed.
Looking to gain extra cash before Christmas? We can save you significant amounts of time and provide a quick sale. You also won’t have to worry about the hassle of selling via advertising, handling enquiries or negotiating.
Find out more about our van dealers in Slough. Or simply get a valuation on our website today.