Van rental for tradespeople: how to choose the right vehicle

For a tradesperson, a van is a work tool: if it's wrong, it wastes time every day. Long-term rental lets you have a new vehicle, with maintenance and assistance included, without tying up capital. But the choice must be based on your real journeys.

Start with what you transport

• Usable volume: measure your typical load and your maximum load. A compact van (Doblò, Transit Courier) is enough for tools and small materials; for panels, furniture or pallets you need a medium or large van (Transit Custom, Ducato, Master).
• Payload: check the weight you actually carry, including fixed tools.
• Load bay length: pipes, profiles and ladders require a long wheelbase.

Licence and dimensions

With a category B licence you can drive vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight. For work in historic centres or tight car parks, a compact van saves time every day.

Conversions

Shelving, tow bars, fixed or tipper bodies, insulated boxes: many conversions can be included in the monthly fee. State them straight away in your request, because they change delivery times.

Mileage and downtime

Anyone who works with the vehicle covers many miles: better to plan for them in the contract than pay for them at the end of the rental. And above all, check the replacement vehicle: a day of downtime can cost more than months of difference in the monthly fee.

Tax

Commercial vehicles used for the business generally have more favourable tax treatment than cars. The rules depend on your tax regime and how you use the vehicle: always check with your accountant.

See our commercial vehicle offers o ask for a van tailored to you from a RentalZone consultant.