Max Sharpe 
Whether you’re an electrician, builder or plumber, your van is more than just transport. It’s a mobile workshop, your storage unit and often your first impression with customers. Choosing the right one isn’t about finding the cheapest option; it’s about finding something reliable, practical and fit for the job.
At Huntswood Van Centre, we’ve been selling used vans for over 30 years. As a family-run dealership based in Horton near Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead, we’ve helped thousands of tradespeople find vans that work as hard as they do.
Here’s what we believe you should look for when choosing a used van for your trade in the UK.
Start With the Job, Not the Badge
It’s easy to get drawn towards a particular make or model. Ford Transit, Volkswagen Transporter and Mercedes Sprinter are all popular for a reason. But before thinking about the brand, think about what you actually carry every day.
Ask yourself:
- Do you need roof racks for ladders or long pipework?
- Are you carrying heavy tools or bulky materials?
- Do you need shelving already installed?
- Will you be working in tight city streets or mainly on larger sites?
An electrician working in central Reading has very different needs to a landscaper covering rural Berkshire. Smaller vans are easier to park and cheaper to run. Larger panel vans offer greater payload and storage space but may cost more in fuel and insurance.
When customers come to us at Huntswood Van Centre, we always start by asking about the job itself. That helps narrow down the right size, weight and configuration before we even look at specific vehicles.
Payload and Practicality Matter More Than You Think
One of the most common mistakes we see is underestimating payload. It’s not just about space, along with weight.
Every van has a maximum payload. Exceeding it can affect handling, braking and even insurance validity. Builders and plumbers carrying heavy equipment should pay close attention to this.
Check:
- Maximum payload capacity
- Internal dimensions
- Roof height
- Rear door access (barn doors or tailgate)
If you regularly load pallets, wide rear door access makes a difference. If you stand up inside the van to organise tools, a high roof might be worth it.
Because we inspect every vehicle in-house, we can talk customers through these details clearly. We also provide detailed YouTube walkaround videos, so you can see exactly how the van looks and feels before making a decision.
Think About ULEZ and Euro 6 Compliance
If you’re working in or around London and other clean air zones, emissions standards matter.
Most Euro 6 diesel vans are ULEZ compliant. If you’re regularly travelling into the capital, choosing the right emissions standard can save you significant daily charges.
We regularly help customers who are upgrading specifically to meet ULEZ requirements. It’s always worth checking the registration year and confirming compliance before committing.
Finance Options for Self-Employed Buyers
Many tradespeople prefer to spread the cost rather than pay outright. A van is a working asset, so preserving cash flow often makes sense.
At Huntswood Van Centre, we offer flexible finance options through AutoBahn Finance to suit sole traders, limited companies and growing businesses. Whether you’re looking at hire purchase or another structure, we can talk through what works best for your circumstances.
Because we’re open seven days a week, with evening appointments available until 9pm, we make the process as convenient as possible around your work schedule.
Don’t Overlook Running Costs
The purchase price is only part of the equation. You also need to consider:
- Fuel economy
- Insurance group
- Road tax
- Maintenance costs
- Tyres and servicing
A slightly more expensive van with better fuel efficiency could save you thousands over a few years. Similarly, choosing a well-known, widely supported model can make servicing simpler and cheaper.
With over 40 years’ combined motor trade experience, we’re happy to give honest advice about long-term ownership costs. Our aim isn’t just to sell a van. It’s to make sure it’s the right van.
The Importance of Warranty and Aftercare
Most of us know the used vehicle industry hasn’t got the best reputation. Historically, some buyers were left with no warranty, cash-only transactions and misleading adverts.
When Max Sharpe set up Huntswood Van Centre in 2020, his goal was to modernise the experience. Coming from a retail background and growing up in a motor trade family, he believed customer service had to come first.
That’s why every vehicle we sell includes:
- A free one year warranty
- Free UK delivery if preferred
- Detailed video condition reports
- Transparent listings
- Clear communication throughout
For busy tradespeople, that peace of mind is invaluable. You need to know your van will start every morning.
