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Choosing the right van for the job is key, but with so many different options available it can be a challenging task.
Choosing the wrong vehicle can have a negative effect, for example choosing a van that's too small could impact vehicle and driver performance - the vehicle could be overloaded, or the driver could have to make too many trips. However, choosing vehicle that's too big can have a direct impact on the cost of your operation - larger vehicles are more expensive and less economical.
It's important that you have a good idea of what you want the vehicle to do and what you're going to be carrying. Our team of experts recommend you consider the following:
How do you calculate load length? Consider the following:
What is the largest thing you're going to be transporting? E.g. a Euro pallet is 1200mm x 800mm.
How often is the largest thing being transported? Is it only required once a week, so could it be more cost effective to have it delivered by courier?
Could the item be stored on the roof during transit? This could result in a saving as you might be able to reduce the size of the vehicle you need.
How do you calculate load height? Consider the following:
Does an operator need to carry out work within the vehicle? The internal height should be adequate to allow the operator to work comfortably for a long period of time.
Is an operator required to access roof cargo? It can be extremely difficult for an operator to safely access roof equipment.
Will the vehicle be likely to operate in areas with height restrictions? Height restrictions can prevent vehicles from accessing certain areas, such as underground car parks. Working in an urban area could easily become quite difficult.
How often will you be transporting your largest cargo? Is it only required infrequently, so could it be more cost effective to have it delivered?
As a van operator, it's essential you are aware of the vehicle's maximum weight limits. It can be a confusing area, with some people mistaking the gross vehicle weight for how much the vehicle can carry.
The gross vehicle weight is the maximum total weight of the vehicle: which includes driver, any passengers, fuel, the vehicle itself, and any cargo you want to carry.
For example:
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 3,500kg |
|---|---|
| Unladen weight | 1,800kg |
| Weight of passenger & driver (assume 85kg each) | 170kg |
| Weight of fuel (100 litres = 1kg per litre) | 100kg |
| Load that can be carried (Payload) | 1,430kg |
The drivetrain is how power from the engine is delivered to the wheels. Generally there are three available:
| Vehicle Usage | Drivetrain |
|---|---|
| The vehicle operates solely on the public highways and does not go offroad | FWD |
| The vehicle transports heavy cargo over the rear axle, putting the rear axle close to max weight | RWD |
| The vehicle tows infrequently at low loads that are less than 60% of the allowance | FWD / RWD |
| The vehicle tows frequently at high and variable loads | RWD |
| The vehicle operates off road | AWD |
| If the vehicle operates off road and is required to tow | AWD |
Will you be travelling inside a Low Emission Zone? Would you rather your business adopted a low carbon emission policy? Consider the following:
Electric vans are generally more expensive to lease or buy, however the cost can be offset with lower running and maintenance costs, and lower taxation charges.
