Heading into the summer, a seasonal slowdown is likely in the used van retail market. As a result, dealers are in no rush to top up with stock except to replace sold vehicles or to grab more unusual models.
That’s the view of David Hill, LCV expert at My Car Check’s new Trade service, which provides used van valuations for trade buyers.
Mr Hill says that while supply to the market is currently ample, it’s very repetitive. Certain models are available in volume, but there’s little choice in other areas. Here’s a run-down of his view of current conditions in the used van market.
Small vans
As reported previously, the Ford Fiesta Van and Vauxhall Corsavan are the pick of the field. However, ample supply means that only tidy examples will fetch strong prices. Prices rapidly drop off for more average examples.
One step up in size, the Peugeot Partner, Citroën Berlingo and Volkswagen Caddy are all around “in volume” according to Mr Hill. As always, this means that only retail-ready vans will fetch top prices. Apparently there’s a particular glut of “blue 69PS” VW Caddies. These are presumably ex-British Gas. A decent spec means that prices are holding firm at the moment, says Mr Hill, but values are likely to weaken as the influx continues.
Medium vans
Stepping up to the Volkswagen Transport/Ford Transit sector, it’s a similar story. While demand for Transporters remains strong, prices are slipping for poorly-specified 84 and 102PS models. Used buyers want 140PS Highline or similar models if possible.
Similarly, old-style Ford Transits and newer Transit Customs sell best in Trend and Limited specification, for which trade buyers will travel.
Large vans
Supply of large panel vans remains tight. As a result, they tend to sell quickly, although prices still come under pressure for vans “that require body work or mechanical attention”. If the price is too high, trade buyers will still walk away, says Mr Hill.
With chassis cab models, badge is much less important than condition:
Tippers have to be clean with no tarmac or concrete in the rear. Double cabs have to have the rear seats. Drop sides are not even mileage sensitive as long as they are tidy, and it is the same for Luton variants. This is all because demand outstrips supply.
I’ve been watching used van prices at auction weaken for some months, as buyers have become more discerning. This provides further evidence from the next level up the chain that the market is softening slightly as supply shortages start to be eroded by strong new registrations.