Shopping for new van deals so that you can grow your business is something that has to be done at some point, but how do you know if you’re going about it the right way? The problem is that, with so many different options out there, sellers are having to find new ways to stand out. Some choose value and great discounts, others try to catch the eye with gimmicks that add little or nothing.
We’re going to guide you through how the industry really works so that you can find the right balance for you and your business. Exactly what you want to hear when you’re looking to set the tone for a whole new host of opportunities.
What Contributes to a Good New Van Deal?
If you take a look at any of the new Citroen vans for sale we advertise, you’ll see that on every page, the following key details are clearly outlined and highlighted:
- Payload: You need to know how much you can carry if you’re going to assess the quality of the deal
- Fuel Efficiency: Knowing the MPG is essential if you’re going to be able to accurately estimate the running costs
- Van Dimensions: Figuring out what you can and cannot carry will show you if you’re looking at a deal that represents value for money
Alongside these key details, you also want to know whether or not the model you are looking at is reliable. If a model is known for developing a particular type of fault that is time-consuming and costly to fix, even a new van may not represent a good deal. Add in the flexibility of the finance options you have at your disposal, and you will be able to see the bigger picture of the deal.
What Are The Typical Sales Gimmicks?
The large number of new van deals you will find online is one of the primary reasons for the rise of sales gimmicks. Yes, certain sellers have been trying to stand out with gimmicks for decades, but it’s the large influx of new online sellers that has really accelerated things here. Here are some of the most common to look out for:
- Loyalty Programs: Being part of some sort of club that offers you cashback or credits and points sounds great, but does it really make the deal better for your business?
- Referral Schemes: Getting a discount on future purchases or some form of voucher when you recommend a service to a friend is always nice, but is it really a dealbreaker?
- Limited-Time Prices: Every seller will run sales throughout the year, so should you feel pressured into buying right now if you haven’t explored all of your options?
- Bundle Deals: Discounts on the purchase of multiple vans sound attractive, but could they prove to be a false economy if you choose the wrong van for your fleet?
- Attractive Freebies: Do you really need free merchandise or streaming subscriptions from the seller you are buying a new van from?
If you’re tired of the gimmicks and want to be able to sidestep all of them with the click of a button, our new Citroen Berlingo vans are focused purely on value. Just what you want to hear when you’re looking to take your business in an exciting new direction without delay.
What is the Best Time of Year to Seek a New Van Deal?
March, June, September, and December are often the best months to buy a new van because many sellers will be pushing to meet their quarterly sales targets. While they may not have a sale advertised, you may find that you can get a better deal by reaching out and connecting with a member of their team. They will generally be a little more open to negotiation at these points on the calendar, potentially enabling you to secure a better deal for yourself in the process.
How Often Should You Replace Your Van?
There are always going to be new van deals that tempt you, but it’s going back into the market at the right time that will really make the difference to your business. If you’re interested in our new Citroen Relay vans, for example, we would recommend replacing your van at least every 5-10 years. In fact, whenever your mileage begins to approach the 100,000-mile mark, putting aside a budget for a new van would be a smart move.
Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Taking a moment to ask yourself the following simple questions will help you home in on the right van for you and your business:
- What is my realistic monthly budget for finance repayments?
- What will the primary purpose of my van be over the next 12 months?
- Will I need to carry any passengers or heavy equipment?
- Are there any essential features that are non-negotiable?
Taking your time and working through each question in a way that gives you the space you need to clarify your thoughts is really important. It’s what will move you from a van that is OK to one that is truly fit for purpose and has all the flexibility you need for the future.
Tips for Getting The Best Possible Price
There are so many new van deals out there that it can be hard to know if you’re looking in the right place. In our experience, the best thing to do is focus on the van itself to begin with; that way, you can assess the reliability of the model and the likely ongoing maintenance costs and running costs. Once you know the make and model you want, it’s important not to rush things, even if you are being greeted by a pressure-selling approach.
If you would like to talk to a team of experts who will make sure you feel comfortable right throughout the buying process, we’re always right here. Get in touch today to hear about our latest models and our flexible new van finance via a personal point of contact who is always on your side.