Are you unsure about what counts as fair wear and tear, or are you worried about possible damage to your lease van and having to pay penalty charges at the end of your lease?

Worry no further. With this guide, we're giving you a rundown on what does and does not come under the permitted fair wear and tear category. We'll also guide you on how to check over your van in preparation for the final inspection when you eventually have to hand it back. Chances are, that little thing which you thought would lead to a penalty charge might actually be covered under the acceptable fair wear and tear allowance.

## What is Fair Wear and Tear?

Fair wear and tear refers to the acceptable kind of damage or deterioration which your van sustains from normal usage, as opposed to excessive damage caused by accidents, neglect or poor treatment. Obviously, it's rarely possible to return your van to your lease provider in the exact same condition as when you received it, and leasing and finance companies know this. Weather, mileage and natural deterioration all take their toll, even if you've only been using your van for normal use. This is especially true considering that the normal leasing period can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years, which is why the fair wear and tear policy exists.

Following the fair wear and tear leased vehicle guide set out by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) is the best way of determining if your van is in good enough condition at the end of your lease. The BVRLA fair wear and tear stipulations form an industry-wide guide setting out a universal definition of what constitutes fair wear and tear, meaning that there's no confusion surrounding what is acceptable or not. The same fair wear and tear rules apply regardless of whether you are on a business or personal leasing contract, although a leased car or truck does have slightly separate guidelines from commercial vehicles like vans.

Whilst individual lease providers may have slight differences in their own fair wear and tear definitions, they'll all generally be based around the BVRLA guidelines, and your leasing or finance company should communicate the standard which they expect you to leave your van in. You can visit the [BVRLA's fair wear and tear page](https://www.bvrla.co.uk/guidance/fair-wear-tear.html) directly or email fleet@bvrla.co.uk to order. The BVRLA fair wear and tear guide for light commercial vehicles (including vans) is available to BVRLA members as an A5 hard copy booklet or as a licensed electronic document.

By now, though, you're probably wondering what counts as van fair wear and tear and what doesn't. So, let's take a look at acceptable and unacceptable wear and tear as per the BVRLA fair wear and tear guidelines.

## Acceptable and Unacceptable Wear and Tear

### Loading Area

#### Acceptable

* Small bumps, dents and scratches (unless they interfere with the doors opening)
* Limited scuffing
* Abrasion on loading area sills

#### Unacceptable

* Loading floor holes
* Damage that interferes with compartment functions or door usage
* Damage from improper loading
* Missing or damaged interior linings
* Wheel casing dents

### Body and Paintwork

#### Acceptable

* Light paintwork damage that hasn't penetrated to the base or bare metal
* Paintwork scuffs or scratches with a maximum length of 100mm and a maximum diameter of 20mm that can be easily removed via a mechanical polish
* Natural weather discolouration

#### Unacceptable

* Colours that don't match
* Flaky paintwork, preparation marks and uneven surfaces
* Damage that has corroded
* Bare metal penetrated by scuffing
* Body parts marked by more than 2 scuffs or scratches or with dents having a diameter greater than 20mm

### Bumpers and Grille

#### Acceptable

* Less than 3 scuffs or scratches in the same area, with a maximum size of no more than 100mm and a maximum depth of no more than 1mm

#### Unacceptable

* Broken grilles and damaged bumpers due to direct impact
* Missing or misshapen parts
* Painted bumpers that show scratches going through to the base

### Wheel rims and tyres

#### Acceptable

Minor tyre wear
* Minor wheel trim and alloy scuffs or scratches
* 1 scratch or scuff under 100mm on the wheel face
* One scratch or scuff under 100mm on the wheel border

#### Unacceptable

* Flat tyres or tyres with a tread depth of below 2mm
* Missing or damaged wheel trims from breaks and cracks
* Misshapen rims
* Bulges or cuts in tyres
* Missing spare wheel (if originally included with your van)
* Damaged tyres from direct impact

### Windows, Lights and Glazing

#### Acceptable

* Scuffs or scratches with a total maximum length of 50mm and a total maximum depth of 1mm
* Scuffs or scratches to painted mirror casings that haven't gone through to the base metal/material
* Stone chips on the windscreen under 10mm that aren't in the driver's line of sight
* Stone chips on light casings

#### Unacceptable

* Cracked or damaged glass/mirrors
* Damaged lights or poorly-fitted beacons

### Van Interior

#### Acceptable

* Wear in the footwell and seating
* Minor headlining damage
* Abrasions and minor tears in heavily-used areas
* Dent on partition wall
* Holes left from telephone equipment removal
* Stains that can be easily cleaned

#### Unacceptable

* Damaged or torn dashboard or headlining
* Damaged, torn, stained or missing seat covers and upholstery
* Holes in centre console
* Broken storage compartments

## Self-inspecting Your Van Before You Hand It Back

Before you hand over your van and receive the final inspection, you should conduct a preliminary pre-collection inspection of the van yourself at least 10 weeks before the end of your lease contract. This should help you to avoid any nasty surprises in the form of penalty charges, whilst also leaving time for suitable repairs to be made in the event that you do spot something. Getting someone else to look over the van with you may help to form an objective, unbiased opinion.

1. Pick a time in broad daylight: You'll need to be able to see what you're doing, so park in a place with good natural light. Make sure that there are no shadows obscuring parts of your van.
2. Do it in dry weather: Like with shadows and poor lighting, rainwater or dirt can play tricks on the eye and obscure any bits of unacceptable damage. 
3. Inspect the whole exterior: Look at the van from every angle for any clear visible damage, being sure not to miss a panel or side. Remember to check the roof and below the bumper, too, and don't forget the tyres and wheel trim.
4. Check the glass: As in mirrors, windows and lights. Watch out for chips, cracks or holes.
5. Check the interior: Look over seats, carpets, trim and interior lining for any stains or odours. On inspection day, the inside needs to be fully clean, just like the exterior.
6. Look over the dashboard and controls: All electrical equipment must be fully functional, including but not limited to warning lights, satnav and any other appliances.

## How Do I Fix Any Damage to My Van?

Okay, so you've seen some potential damage or wear and tear which you think is not covered under the usual fair wear and tear allowance.

Whilst you could attempt a personal DIY repair yourself, do bear in mind that a poorly-done job could lead to even more damage and even greater penalty fees. For that reason, you're best-advised to contact a professional from a reputable garage so that the repair meets the BVRLA fair wear and tear guidelines. Before doing that, though, you'll need to get in touch with a financing agency for approval before you submit a maintenance request.

## Things You Must Return With the Van

Be sure to return anything that was included with the van when you first leased it. General golden rule is: whatever came with the van, stays with the van. That includes items like a spare wheel, spare keys, radio code cards, and any emergency equipment supplied (e.g. wheel brace, warning triangle). Also, don't forget any wheel nuts.

When handing over your van, you'll also need to have the right documentation in place: owner's manual, vehicle service book, vehicle registration document, and (if applicable) a valid MOT certificate/receipt.

Likewise, any items or features which you added yourself have to go. That includes any personal belongings or optional equipment fitted, like tow bars, roof rails, alarms, or signage and vinyl wraps. (For a full list of possible van modifications, take a look at our [van modifications guide here](https://www.leaseloco.com/guides/van-leasing-guide/lease-van-modification).) The van should also be fully clean and in sound mechanical condition.

## What Will Happen at the End of My Lease Agreement?

At the end of your van lease agreement, your van will go back to the leasing company which you took it out with. Because the van's future value depends on its condition and depreciation, it will then be subjected to a fair wear and tear assessment as per the BVRLA fair wear and tear guidelines as part of a detailed inspection for any harsh treatment or excess damage. Should such damage be discovered, you'll be required to pay certain fees known as lease-end penalty charges. Anything that's just over the acceptable specifications outlined earlier may cost you. Any significant damage and you'll definitely be penalised.

## Play It Safe

Just remember: the best way to prevent excessive wear and tear on your van is to clean it regularly, properly maintain it at all times and make sure that it gets properly serviced during your lease period. You really can't go far wrong with that!

With this guide, we're giving you a rundown on what does and does not come under the permitted fair wear and tear category.

Van Lease Fair Wear and Tear | LeaseLoco

Van Lease Fair Wear and Tear Guidelines

# What modifications can i make to my leased van

It's easy to assume that you can't make any modifications to something you don't actually own, like a leased vehicle. It's one of the many myths of leasing. Fortunately, myths were made to be busted. With our top tips, we're here to tell you that you can make such modifications to your leased van. Within reason. If you need help finding the the right van for you, take a look at our [Which Van Type guide](https://www.leaseloco.com/guides/van-leasing-guide/types-of-van).

For sure, personalising leased vans is a common practice for customers on business leasing van contracts, which is why you'll see more company-branded vans than plain white vans out on the roads. That being said, it's far from a free-for-all. There's limits to optional extras like modifications, and companies require you to remove them when you return the van at the end of your lease agreement. Not many leasing companies are going to appreciate a nine-foot logo that wasn't there before!

It's worth noting what modification(s) you want to make before you actually put pen to paper and sign a leasing agreement. Your leasing provider might be able to include any modification specifically in your lease contract. Needless to say, full comprehensive insurance cover is required as you'll usually need to report these changes to your insurer.

## Can I Sign-write a Leased Van?

You'd be mad not to. Sign-writing is highly beneficial for promoting your business brand out in the open with clear advertising. A recent study by the signage company 3M demonstrated that if you're driving around the city, three thousand people will take notice of your specially-branded van each hour (three thousand!). Essentially, you'll be a moving advert. Just imagine that you're stuck in traffic: the occupant(s) of the car behind will have nothing to do but gaze into the imprinted letters spelling out your company name on the rear of your lease van and . . . bingo, that's one or two potential customers right there!

If you want to sign-write, your cheapest option is magnetic signs, typically at a cost of around £150. Having a vinyl fitted only takes several hours, and you can take them off yourself at your own pleasure. Be sure to get them put on professionally by a reputable garage. Stencil signwriting is another alternative and is the best option if you want the same information printed on all panels of your van.

When deciding exactly what you want the writing to say, avoid typos and colour clashes and make sure that your website, logo and any relevant contact details are clearly visible. Oh, and try not to pack in too much information. You want to make it easy to read from a distance, so less is more here. Before giving the go-ahead for any sign-write, ask for a preview of how the signage is going to appear. You don't want to be stuck with something you don't like.

Same as getting the sign-writing professionally installed, you should get it removed professionally as well to prevent any damage occurring and landing a potentially large fee. Any lease company will tell you the same. Personal DIY efforts often don't end well and marks and grazes created in such a way probably won't be covered by the usually-generous fair wear and tear policy. Whilst every leasing and finance provider may have slight variations on what they consider to be fair wear and tear, it's best not to chance it. So long as there are no permanent marks left by the sign-writing when you return the van, you're good to go.

## Can I Vinyl-wrap a Leased Van?

Definitely. If you're not looking to simply add a few vinyl letters and logos, the bigger and bolder technique of adhesive vinyl-wrapping is a much more 'out there' alternative. You can choose to vinyl-wrap the entire vehicle with a full wrap or just opt for a partial wrap on the back and sides. Full vinyl wraps for a large van cost somewhere in the region of £3,000. As before, just make sure the design isn't too overwhelming, and definitely contact your finance company first to get permission.

The majority of vinyl-wrap films can be removed up to five years after installation. Removal after ten years will almost certainly result in paintwork damage, but that shouldn't be a concern if you're leasing your van for the typical three or four-year term.

## Modifications for Van Security

Modern vans like the Nissan NV300 and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are very secure and often come with in-built security features like lockouts, immobilizers and basic alarms, but certain additional security features can be added with permission from your finance company. Getting a good lock fitted is the surest way of keeping your van safe from theft.

It's worth nothing that this will mean a higher cost in terms of insurance premiums. However, think of the cost to you and your business if you don't make such modifications and your van is broken into and goods taken. Plus, you'll have to make a claim to your insurance company.

So, with that thought in mind, let's take a look at the main types of lock you can invest in.

### Deadlock

Deadlocks go on the van door and the connecting body panel. They work by throwing a bolt into a receiving bracket fitted to the van's internal bodywork. Thieves will find it difficult to pick a deadlock as there's no spring on the locking mechanism.

An external key controls deadlocks, creating an additional secure locking point to the vehicle door. Unfortunately, this means you will have to lock the doors again with each use.

### Slam Lock

Slam locks prevent human error in the event that you forget to lock your van doors whilst stepping away from the vehicle. You can use a key or digital remote to unlock it. Since thieves can easily acquire a copy of the digital remote, you're probably better off using a key.

### Catalytic Converter Lock

Catalytic converters are sometimes targeted by thieves for the precious metals contained in the particulate filters, so this lock is designed to prevent theft and tampering by being fitted around a van's catalytic converter or, in the case of diesel vans, a diesel particulate filter.

The catalytic lock is made up of a marine-grade stainless steel cage surrounding the converter. Two stainless steel security ropes are securely attached to the cage and connected to the van's underside. There is a wide range available and for different prices, so be sure to scour the market for the ideal one. Most insurers require you to have one that is Thatcham-approved.

### GPS Tracker

You could also think about installing a GPS tracker. Most modern vans already come with an alarm and immobiliser, but an advanced system like a tracking device can provide an extra layer of defence. In the event of your van being stolen, an advanced tracking system will be able to pinpoint its exact location to you or your finance provider. After that, the police should be able to retrieve it.

Because it reduces the chance of your van being stolen and your insurance company having to pay out a large claim, installing a tracker can lower your insurance premiums.

## Other Permitted Modifications

### Dash Camera

Dash cams come in incredibly handy for providing proof in the case of accidents and insurance claims.

Or for filming YouTube videos . . .

### Ply Lining

Most vans come with ply lining already, but you are authorised to change things up in that department if you so wish.

### Privacy Glass

Otherwise known as 'tinted windows', privacy glass can be installed on the rear windows or side windows as an optional extra.

### Private Registration Plates

Unlike some other modifications, private registration plates can only be added after your van has been delivered. You'll need to keep the DVLA and your insurance company in the loop if you decide to do this.

Be warned. Having a new plate made can be a lengthy process. Not only will you need to buy one from the DVLA and take the proof to a registered number plate supplier, you'll then have to get permission from your lease company.

### Remapping

Remapping is a way to improve a van's fuel economy and performance by modifying its onboard Engine Control Unit.

### Roof Rack

Roof racking is something that you can install yourself, as the process is relatively simple.

### Tow Bar

Yep, you can also get a tow bar fitted. Your lease provider might be able to install it before delivering your van, so best to let them know as early as possible.

## Will My Premiums Be Affected?

Yes.

Van customisations like vinyl-wrapping definitely count as modifications for insurance purposes so you should always double-check and call your insurance company in the first instance. Depending on the exact provider, your insurance premium could then be adjusted.

Exactly how your premiums change can sometimes be a complex affair and dependent on other things that you use the van for – for example, using it to store your tools overnight. On the plus side, because vans with logos are stolen less often, you could end up with lower premiums.

## What Modifications Am I Not Allowed?

The deciding factor usually comes down to whether the modification can be removed at the end of the lease. Some things that aren’t allowed in most cases include: changing the paintwork; signwriting directly onto the paintwork (unless you can remove it); or mounting anything to the dashboard or interior that would create holes or damage the trim.

As always, there's one magic rule for determining whether a certain modification is allowed . . . speak to your leasing company!

## Leasing with LeaseLoco

It's our priority here at LeaseLoco to make it easy for you to find your brand new van lease deal without having to worry about things like dealer finance. Using the filters on our search page, you can search and compare the hottest van lease deals on the market right now. Once you’ve found your perfect deal and have gone through the leasing application and process with our leasing partners, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and wait for your new van to be delivered.

### FAQs

#### Can I Fit an Alarm to a Lease Van?

Yep, not a problem. Not only will the blaring noise deter thieves from breaking in, it'll also give them less time to rummage around should they actually choose to do so. Besides improving security, an alarm system will also lower your insurance premiums. It's worth checking with your finance company first to make sure that it's not in violation of your lease agreement.

#### Can I Put Rims on a Lease Van?

Generally, alloy wheels are permitted on a lease vehicle, but there will be dimension restrictions as the new wheels must match the dimensions of the existing wheels. This is to ensure that the ride experience remains unchanged. To save yourself the hassle, many vans do come with alloy wheels already.

#### Can I Put up a Racking System in a Lease Van?

Yes, so long as it doesn't damage the interior or load spaces.

Racking helps create an organised space and stops items moving around when the van is in motion. However, avoid fixing racking to the floor. This can leave holes or permanent marks which would be in breach of your lease agreement, in which case you'd have to pay for any repairs yourself.

As always, it's best to contact your lease provider about any modifications you'd like to make to a leased vehicle.

Want to modify your leased van? Here's the lowdown on what you can and can't do.

It's worth noting what modification(s) you want to make before you actually put pen to paper and sign a leasing agreement. Your leasing provider might be able to include any modification specifically in your lease contract.

Can You Modify A Leased Van?

Hey, amigos!

Got questions about van lease deals or just about van leasing in general? Well, look no further.

With [van leasing](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing) offering a cheaper, easier alternative to Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) or buying a new van outright through a loan or finance company, it's no wonder that van lease deals are becoming an increasingly popular choice for companies, business customers, sole traders, and even those just looking to use a new van for personal journeys and leisure (yes, that's a thing). Better yet, if you want to lease a van, monthly fees usually work out less expensive than a massive one-off payment or deposit for a straight-out purchase.

Like all depreciating assets, vans tend to lose value overtime, but one of the main perks of leasing a van is that you won't have to sell it on and risk ending up having to pay a hefty balloon payment. Remember, a lease is basically a long-term rental agreement, so technically you won't own the van – that responsibility rests with the finance provider. Happy days!

But before you even think about putting pen to paper on a van lease agreement and paying the initial rental fee, it's important to pinpoint exactly what type of van you're after and how you plan on using it. For that, we've compiled a guide on the [main van types and their various uses](https://www.leaseloco.com/guides/van-leasing-guide/types-of-van).

Comprende?

## How Does Van Leasing Work?

Before diving into more detail on the advantages and disadvantages of van leasing, let's take a look at the actual van leasing process itself.

Choose your brand new van: Take your pick from a wide variety of brand new lease vans, whether that be a standard panel van, a medium sized van, a city van, or flatbeds or electric vans. (There's always some amazing deals available right here.) Of course, you'll need to bear in mind your monthly budget and how much you or your business can afford to spend each month.

Select your van lease deal: Choose your lease type, how long you'd like to lease for (typically anywhere from 1 to 5 years, but it can be less), along with your mileage needs. The mileage is very important, so be accurate with how many you think you'll cover as you don't want to pay excess charges. That being said, you may have some leeway to alter the mileage limit during the course of your agreement.

Breakdown cover, road tax and the full manufacturer's warranty will all be included with your monthly payments. Unfortunately, you'll have to cover van insurance yourself on a fully comprehensive policy.

Give the provider company your financial details: Securing credit will likely involve a credit rating check to make sure you can commit to the monthly instalments. Should you obtain finance, you'll then sign a van leasing contract and pay an initial rental fee, followed by the fixed monthly payments.

The exact cost of your fixed monthly payments is calculated based on interest rates, lease length, the van's value, mileage, and residual value. Generally speaking, though, the longer the contract, the lower your monthly fees.

Wait for your lease van to be delivered: Now it's a waiting game. A delivery date will be arranged based on whether the van is in stock at your time of order. If so, it can often take as little as 2 to 3 weeks to be delivered, but this could also depend on the manufacturer.

Oh, how could we forget to mention? Delivery is 100% FREE.

Sit back and relish the drive: Now that your van's delivered, it's time to get out there on the open road, keeping yourself and/or your business moving.

End of contract: After your final payment, you'll return your van to the provider who will usually collect it FREE of charge. In accordance with your lease agreement, take good care to ensure it's clean and in good condition. That's excluding any fair wear and tear as per the BVRLA, the definition of which can be fairly broad and probably covers more than you think (minor chips, scratches, etc.). You're then cleared of any further obligations and free to pick a brand new van model.

Well, now that you know how to lease a van, let's talk a little about the key benefits of doing so.

## Pros and Cons of Van Leasing

Yep . . . there are a few cons to leasing a van, too. In general, though, the advantages of van leasing outweigh the disadvantages, particularly if you're only using a van for business-related purposes.

### Pros

* Freedom to change lease van every few years
* Flexible contract duration and mileage terms
* Strong possibility of extremely short leasing periods (e.g. 1 - 6 months)
* Road tax and manufacturer's warranty are both included
* Low outgoings through affordable monthly payments spread over time
* No worrying about van depreciation or the need to sell the van on
* Smaller monthly payments than PCP
* Fewer repair costs

### Cons

* You don't own the van (could also be a pro, depending on your needs)
* Fees if you don't return the van in good condition
* Terminating your contract early can be expensive
* Sticking to a mileage limit, with excess charges should you exceed it
* Must be insured with full comprehensive cover
* Limited freedom with regards to vehicle modifications
* Can require a good credit score. Although there are poor credit score options.

## What Van Leasing Options Are Available to Me?

Business Contract Hire is the most common type of contract if you're leasing a van, usually catering to sole traders, partnerships and limited companies. This is van leasing in its purest form, with the lowest initial payment and monthly payments out of the three main options.

Business Contract Purchase is slightly different as options open up for you at the end of the contract. Contract Purchase is ideal if you're a VAT-registered company or business and want to own the van without the risk of ending up with a wildly depreciated asset. But unlike Business Contract Hire, your monthly payments tend to be a lot higher. You'll also have to make one final payment before receiving ownership.

Business Lease Purchase also gives you responsibility for the van at the end of the agreement. It's more popular with businesses that want to buy the vehicle without spending the money up front. Unlike with Business Contract Hire, Business Lease Purchase is purely a finance package.

## Can I Lease a Van if I’m Self-employed?

Absolutely.

Otherwise known as sole-trader van leasing, it works just like ordinary business leasing. However, as you and your business are classed together, there's no need to pay any company van tax. That's because you're not an employee using the van as a company perk. Also, if your business is VAT-registered and you only use the van for business purposes, you can claim 100% VAT back from your monthly payments.

Make sure you have your documents to hand, such as your personal and business information, in addition to your business bank account information. You will also need a current bank statement.

Your ideal van obviously depends on what trade you work in. If you're a self-employed florist or electrician, a smaller and lighter van might be ideal – for example, a Ford Transit Courier or a Volkswagen Caddy. But where machinery and bigger loads are concerned, you're going to need a van with more loading space – say, a medium-built van like a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, a Renault Trafic or even a larger-sized Luton or box van.

## FAQs

### How Does Van Leasing Work When It Comes to Credit Rating?

To be accepted for a lease agreement with a finance company, your credit application check has to yield an outcome of 'good' to 'excellent'.

Should that not happen, the finance provider may take other considerations into account, like if you've been keeping up with recent payments despite having a poor overall credit history, or if you're backed up by a guarantor. This may give the finance company more confidence in your ability to pay the monthly instalments on time. However, your best bet is to simply improve your credit rating. This can be done by:

Not going into overdraft

Paying your yearly or monthly payments on time (e.g. mortgage)

Paying off outstanding bills and clearing any credit card debt

### What About Personal Van Leasing?

Personal van leasing is an alternative financing option if you're a sole trader or limited company and haven't traded in the past year, or if you just want a van for personal journeys. Or maybe you're just starting out and lack the credit history required for a business lease. Ironically, then, personal van leasing may actually make more sense for you if either of those is the case. Despite that, personal van leasing can be more expensive than business van leasing.

* Personal Contract Hire is the most popular long-term lease agreement if you're a private individual. Just like with Business Contract Hire, you use the van and then return it to the finance company with no further obligations.

* Personal Contract Purchase gives you the option of purchasing the vehicle at the end of the agreement. You can either buy the van outright for a lump sum or hand it back with no further obligations.

* Personal Lease Purchase is ideal if you're a private individual and want to own the van but don't have sufficient funds to pay for it upfront. With this type of contract, you'll pay the standard initial deposit and monthly fees followed by a balloon payment at the end of the contract. 

### Is Van Leasing Tax Deductible?

Fortunately, with van leasing, 100% of tax is deductible, meaning you'll be able to claim it all back so long as you meet the criteria. That's obviously because when you lease a van, you don't own it and that's an ongoing expense.

### Can I Leave My Lease Contract Early?

Yes, it's called Voluntary Termination. However, doing so may land you some hefty cancellation fees – usually 100% of your remaining monthly rentals if cancelling in the first year, and 50% anytime after that. The exact amount can vary depending on the finance provider and how long you've got left on your contract.

Got questions about van lease deals or just about van leasing in general? Well, look no further.

How does van leasing work? Quickly search and compare thousands of lease deals at leaseLoco. Our Loco Score ranks the leasing offers in the UK.

How Does Van Leasing Work?

## How does Van Leasing Work?

Leasing a new van is easier than you think. 

It all starts with a van lease agreement. That's made between you and a vehicle finance company, typically lasting for a minimum of one year. You'll pay an initial rental fee at the start of the contract, followed by fixed monthly payments which never change. Then at the end of the lease you'll return the van to the vehicle finance provider. Check out our [Van Leasing Explained](https://www.leaseloco.com/guides/van-leasing-guide/how-does-van-leasing-work) guide to find out more.

Simples!

What's not so simple is deciding which van to choose. So, with this guide, we'll give you a rundown of some of the best van leasing deals floating around at this very moment. We compare lease deals from van manufacturers across the whole market, so when you see one that says it's a good deal, it really is! Of course, you can always browse for yourself across the [best van leasing deals right here](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/search).

## Why Should I Lease a Van?

If you're part of a business looking for a brand new van to use for work-related purposes, perhaps the better question to ask is: why wouldn't you?

Leasing is the way to go if you need additional vehicles at short notice with minimal purchase cost. You won't go through the hassle of selling the vehicle once you're finished with it, and there's also a number of additional services offering you protection against van damage and van depreciation, not to mention the freedom for to customise the agreement if needed.

Another great thing about van lease agreements is that you are not 'locked in' to anything for long lengths of time, offering you greater flexibility and peace of mind. And because van leases normally work out cheaper than finance or buying outright, chances are that you could be able to drive a newer, higher spec van than you might otherwise have been able to afford. Which is always a good thing!

Let's take a look at some of the best van lease deals on offer right now.

Vamos!

# Best Van Leasing Deals 2022
## Citroën Relay 35 Heavy L4

2.2 BlueHDi H2 Van 140ps Enterprise

Type: [Large Panel Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/panel-van)

The Citroën Relay is an otherwise practical van which just lacks that extra bit of refinement. The cab space is very roomy indeed, but despite also boasting an impressive payload and decent fuel economy, the Relay is outmatched by similar-classed rivals like the Volkswagen Crafter and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

For one thing, the Relay scores less points in terms of driver comfort, throwing up a rather tiring drive in motorway conditions due to the slightly imprecise steering. But for an older model dating all the way back to 2006, those drawbacks can be easily forgiven as the Citroën Relay can still more than get the job done.

## [Ford Transit Custom 320 L2](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/ford/transit-custom)

2.0 EcoBlue 130ps Low Roof D/Cab Limited Van Auto

Type: Crew Van

If you're looking for a reliable and hard-working van that's suited to everyday business use, you can't go far wrong with the Ford Transit Custom – a balance between the smaller Transit Connect and the larger Transit. New Ford van models like the Transit Custom boast state-of-the-art technology including safety features, Park-out Assist Technology and customisable sitting options.

Thanks to the intelligent security system, if you're a delivery driver you'll be able to open one door without unlocking the others. Always a handy bonus. Plus, the spacious interior and easy to access load door makes transporting your goods and products that little bit easier. This all combines to make the Ford Transit Custom a worthy competitor to close rivals like the Mercedes-Benz Vito and the Volkswagen Transporter.

## [Peugeot Boxer 335 L3](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/peugeot/boxer)

2.2 BlueHDi H2 Professional Van 140ps

Type: [Large Panel Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/panel-van)

Similar to the Citroën Relay, the Peugeot Boxer offers you a comfortable cabin and a fully adjustable driver's seat. That's not to mention the armrest and lumbar adjustment function, contributing to the overall comfort. Then there's the interior storage compartments which add up to a total of 73 litres – more than enough for your everyday needs.

But the best thing about the Boxer is how it's incredibly easy to load and unload. The rear doors open at suitable angles, and as the load sill sits rather low, you're given more load space for loading bigger and heavier objects. That combined with the Boxer's safety features makes it an ideal companion for your working needs.

## [Renault Trafic SWB](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/renault/trafic)

SL28 Blue dCi 130 Business+ Van

Type: [Medium Panel Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/panel-van)

Named Medium Van of the Year 2020 at the annual Fleet World awards ceremony, the Renault Trafic is in high demand as one of the UK's most popular medium-sized panel vans. Combining comfort with robustness and endurance, its tough exterior makes it well-suited to navigating urban areas. If you're a professional, you'll definitely appreciate the flexible cab design.

It's also very spacey at the back, offering plenty of load space in what is a generously-sized rear bay. The Renault Trafic also comes complete with ABS + EDS brakes, a service indicator and more. Fortunately, all Trafic models run on lower emissions and improved fuel consumption, meaning less service and maintenance costs for you. Throw in the added equipment and that makes the Renault Trafic a highly sought-after medium-sized van.

## [Toyota Hilux](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/toyota/hilux)

Invincible X D/Cab Pick Up 2.8 D-4D Auto

Type: [Pickup](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/pickup)

A delightful-looking pickup that's both tough and versatile. After all, this is the vehicle that the Top Gear team once threw from the top of a tower block and still managed to drive home at the end of it. Yet gone are the days when a pickup's sole purpose was to conquer the inhospitable. Yes, the Hilux is tough and durable, but with its greater emphasis on roads, it's also pleasant to drive – increasingly important in a world where pickups are becoming just as sought-after as sports cars.

Not only that, the Hilux offers immense practicality too. It's a commercial vehicle for a reason, after all, and the rear bay is wide enough to accommodate even the widest of Euro pallets. Of course, you can opt to get a Hilux as a lifestyle choice as well. Something which can't be said about a lot of other vans.

## [Toyota Proace City L1](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/toyota/proace-city)

1.5D 100 Design Van 6 Speed

Type: [City Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/city-van)

Closely related to the Citroën Berlingo, Peugeot Partner and Vauxhall Combo, the Toyota Proace City is almost car-like to handle and cleverly designed for urban, city driving. But don't let that fool you into thinking there's no space at the back, as this city-slicker can still fit in two standard-sized Euro pallets with ease.

There's nothing too fancy in terms of gadgets, but the Proace City does come well-equipped with all your modern perks like air-conditioning, automatic headlights and hill-start assist, not to mention Bluetooth and an 8 inch touchscreen.

Toyota Proace Long

## [2.0D 140 Icon Freezer Van Premium](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/toyota/proace)

Type: [Fridge Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/fridge-van)

Your needs will have to be specialised enough to warrant getting a brand new fridge van, but being a mid-range panel van, the Toyota Proace Long is a van that's both efficient and tough enough to withstand the treatment that comes with everyday working use. The practicalities are worth it, especially if you make use of the 'Smart Cargo' system with its variable front seat layout and configurable bulkhead.

Aside from the not-so-sharp steering and no options when it comes to roof height, there aren't many drawbacks here. The Proace Long is comfortable, practical and efficient, complete with a unique Toyota feel. That's despite the Proace models coming about as a result of a partnership with Peugeot and Citroën.

## [Toyota Proace Medium](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/toyota/proace)
2.0D 140 Icon Van Premium

Type: [Medium Panel Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/panel-van)

Similar to the Peugeot Expert and the Citroën Dispatch, the Proace Medium is essentially the same van. Toyota's version though does feature a unique face, impressive fuel economy and high payload ratings for the medium van sector. You'll find it more than ideal for navigating around town and those tight urban areas.

The cabin is robust, but a little on the small side. However, you do get a flip-up passenger seat and a removable bulkhead panel to help fit in those extra-long loads. The dashboard features clear instrumentation and analogue dials with ergonomic switchgear. Meanwhile, you'll notice that the driving position can feel rather car-like, offering great visibility and a short-throw gear lever that's positioned in close proximity to the steering wheel.

## [Volkswagen ABT e-Transporter LWB](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/volkswagen/transporter)

83kW 37.3kWh Van Auto

Type: [Electric Van](http://)

If you’re looking for a great value mid-sized panel van that’s comfortable enough to drive each day, the Volkswagen ABT e-Transporter could be your ideal leasing choice. Volkswagen's only commercial electric vehicle in the UK, the Transporter packs good old German efficiency and build quality with top-notch safety features and a cutting-edge interior. You'll barely notice the sound of the engine when travelling, with just a faint hum from the electric motor.

On the downside, the e-Transporter doesn't carry as much payload (a tonne maximum) as its diesel counterpart, the regular Volkswagen Transporter. However, electric vans are often designed to cater for last-mile delivery services where cargo volume can be more important than maximum weight. A second shortcoming is that the e-Transporter covers just 82 miles on a single charge – a figure that's topped by rival electric vans like the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter L2, which we've already talked about.

## FAQS

### How Long Can I Lease a Van For?

Lease agreements typically last two, three or even four years. However, there's a variety of lease options available to you, so it's possible to lease a van for much shorter periods than the norm. It's even possible to land a leasing deal lasting anywhere in the region of one to six months.

### Can I Buy a Lease Van at the End of the Agreement?

Short answer, no. But you could choose to keep leasing the vehicle for longer.

### Can I Lease a Van Privately?

Yes. Although more common, van leasing isn't only an option for businesses, as it is also possible to lease a van for personal use. This can sometimes be more accommodating than owning the van outright. The biggest difference between personal and business leasing is that you'll only be able to reclaim 50% of VAT.

### Can I Lease a Hybrid or Electric Van?

Yes! As hybrid and electric vehicles continue to gain traction, so too will hybrid and electric van leasing deals. Hybrid vans in particular are just as practical as regular-powered vans, so that means less time hanging around petrol stations and more time out on the roads. The main plus is you'll be helping the environment, which is never a bad thing.

### Does Van Leasing Include Insurance?

Unfortunately, standard van lease deals usually don't come with insurance. When leasing a van, you're still responsible for insuring it and are therefore the person or business responsible for paying the cover. However look out for the insurance included tag from some of our lease providers if your looking for a lease deal with insurance.

### Any Disadvantages of Leasing a Van?

It really depends what your priorities are and whether ownership is important to you. Buying does offer you more freedom, but leasing can work out less expensive as the cost is evenly distributed over the fixed term of a contract.

However, lease deals can sometimes be more stringent, and it really does mean sticking to the contract terms. For example, you'll be required to pay an excess mileage charge if you exceed the agreed upon annual mileage allowance. It's also a requirement to pay for any damage to the van at the contract's end, apart from the 'fair wear and tear' that all vans inevitably suffer. You'll also be forced to pay a termination fee if you choose to settle the contract early.

A guide to the best van lease deals of 2022

Our Roundup Of The Best Van Deals in 2022. Quickly search and compare thousands of lease deals at leaseLoco. Our Loco Score ranks the best leasing offers in the UK.

Best Van Lease Deals: May 2022

Best Van Lease Deals 2022

Hola, amigos!

Choosing a van is no mean feat, but we're here to make life that little bit easier. After all, there's a mixed bag of different van types, each with their own body type and style. Not only do you need to make sure that your van is the right size, but also that it's built for the environment in which you're travelling and the loads which you're going to be carrying.

Ever wondered how many types of vans there are? We count at least ten. Due to some overlap, it's difficult to offer a precise number. Some van types are so similar that they're sometimes classed together, and some (like pick-up trucks) are often not considered vans at all. Others, like the car-derived van, start out life as something else and only become vans later on. Like butterflies …

With our guide, you're bound to learn something new about this varied yet overlooked class of vehicle and hopefully be better-placed to pick one. Of course, you can always find the [best van lease prices here](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing).

## What Size Van Do I Need?

Depends what you want to use it for. If you only intend on carrying small to medium-level loads, then a light van (like a city van or a small panel van) is for you. These vans have a maximum vehicle weight of 4500kg. However, if carrying much larger loads is your thing, then try a Luton van or a box van. At the other end of the spectrum, minibus vans and microvans are the way to go for carrying a lot of passengers.

## What Can a Van Do for Me?

Quite a lot, to be honest.

Often deemed the 'ugly sister' of the automobile world and a traditional symbol of the tradesman, you probably only think of vans as commercial vehicles that take you from A to B and get the job done. And whilst that's mostly true, they can also be used out of choice, or even for pleasure (yes, really). All depending on your personal needs.

There's a wide array of vans available for you on the market, right from car-derived small vans like Ford Fiestas all the way through to the large six-seater Mercedes Viano.

Now sit back, relax, and let us do the driving.

## [Panel Vans](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/panel-van)

What is a panel van, exactly? They're characterised by their metal panelling, and along with city vans, they're among the most common vans seen on Britain's roads – you know, the ones you'd normally associate with 'white van men'. Having optimal but not overly-generous loading space, they're durable, reliable and general all-rounders.

Panel vans mainly fall into the small, medium, and large categories. Toyota's HiAce model or the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are prime examples of some of the largest, whilst the Citroen Dispatch falls squarely into the medium category.

## Car-Derived Van

Car-derived vans are modelled on, you guessed it … cars. They're the perfect fit if you're involved in running a small business, offering manoeuvrability and a small load space that could come in handy for, say, a cash & carry. After all, you're probably not looking to transport any big, bulky items.

Ironically, car-derived vans like the [Renault Zoe city van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/renault/zoe) weren't built to be vans. They're just cars that have been adapted into commercial vehicles, the rear being converted into a loading space. Just be aware that you won't get any rear seats or rear-side windows.

## [City Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/city-van)

A close cousin of the car-derived van, [city vans](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/city-van) are nimble and well-built for navigating the tight and compact environment of urbanised, built-up areas. Due to their manageable size and pallet-carrying capacity, they're often made use of by delivery and trade companies. Along with the panel van, they're among the most common vans seen on Britain's roads.

## Crew Van

Also known as 'combis', crew vans are similar to regular panel vans but with the addition of an extra row of seats behind the front seating. This allows you to carry an extra 'crew' of passengers, which does however come at the cost of reduced cargo space, so best to weigh up what's more important to you. If hauling goods is more of a priority than transporting personnel, you're probably best avoiding a crew van.

## Box Van

Okay, most vans are box-shaped … but box vans even more so. It gets its name due to its extra boxy shape and big square load space. They may sound niche, but if you've ever seen a removal van then chances are that you've also seen a box van (or possibly a Luton van, its close cousin), as they're ideal for couriers and home removal companies.

That's due to their capacity for moving goods, yet a box van is still manoeuvrable enough to handle multi-drop distribution for all your deliveries. They come with greater storage space than Luton vans, the biggest difference being the separate cargo area from the cabin. Strong and economical, the Volkswagen Crafter and Mercedes Sprinter are prime examples of box vans.

## [Luton Van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/luton-van)

Basically an extended box van, [Luton vans](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/luton-van) get their name from the fact that they were first produced by a plant operating out of Luton, Bedfordshire. It's the biggest type of van you can drive with a standard UK driving license.

With a closed and raised cargo area, the Luton van offers plenty of cargo space and loading capacity for hauling or removing the biggest kinds of load. That means you'll definitely have enough space for those bulky item goodies. If that sounds up your street, why not take a look at the Ford Transit van?

Tired of hearing 'van' yet?

No? Us neither.

## Curtainside Van

As the name suggests, the sides of a curtainside van are covered by a canvas or 'curtain' that's fastened at the bottom. It offers the same benefits as a Luton or box van and often includes a tail lift to assist you in the loading and unloading process, which will make your deliveries go a lot faster.

Yet that same strength is also a weakness, as curtainside vans are prone to thieves since it's much easier for them to break through and get access to the loading bay with all of its accompanying goodies. The solid-sided panel and Luton vans are much more secure in that respect.

## Refrigerated Van

Yep, [refrigerated vans](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/fridge-van) are a thing, but your needs normally have to be quite specialised to require one. Also known as 'chiller vans', they're usually just other types of vans that have been repurposed.

You might use one as part of a Click & Collect service at a food retailer, with plenty of storage space for ambient, chilled, and frozen products. Or maybe you're in the medical or pharmaceutical industry and need to transport medical supplies between venues.

Be warned . . . it could get rather chilly in there.

## Flatbed Van

Flatbed vans are exactly that, with a flat, open 'bed' space at the rear that's intended for hauling tall items. Like the tipper and dropside vans, which we'll get to, they're often seen in the construction and building trades. The difference being that flatbed vans are longer and have lower sides, not to mention a separate cabin area.

On the downside, you'll usually need an upgraded license to drive them.

## Chassis Van

A chassis van is the name for a van with a ladder chassis and no rear or 'back'. The cab is mounted to the chassis, allowing for any manner of body to be added to the rear, so if you have specific needs for you van, you can always start from scratch with this one. They're usually converted from flatside, tipper or dropside vans to meet an operator's specific requirements.

## Tipper/Dropside Van

Again, the clue is in the name. A [tipper van](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/tipper-van) is normally a flatbed that's fitted with a hydraulic arm, allowing the front end of the cargo area to rise, letting you 'tip' the contents down off the rear of the vehicle. They're mostly used by construction workers, but sometimes gardeners. And if that sounds like you, the Ford Transit 350 L3 is well worth a look.

The dropside van is a close cousin of your typical tipper van, the difference being that dropside vans quite literally let you drop the sides of the van to better access any load.

## Minibus Van

Known more simply as a [minibus](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/minibus), it's the thing which takes you and your friends to that faraway party or event. Or if you live out in the sticks, it could be the very important means of taking your children to school. They can also be used as touring vehicles by tourism companies, the large windows offering ample opportunity to see various sights whilst on the move.

You may not have known that they're technically vans, and they're incredibly handy, packing in anywhere from 9 to 17 seats, including that of the driver. Because of that, you might need a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) license.


## Multi-purpose Van (MPV)

Sometimes called people carriers, the tall and box-like MPVs are great if you've got a large family. They're roughly the size of a car or small truck and are designed to transport as many people as possible – all whilst offering you plenty of space. Every MPV has at least five seats, but some go as far as having nine. Anything above that and you're going to need a commercial license to drive it.

Some decent examples of MPVs are the Chrysler Pacifica and the Vauxhall Combo. You've also got variants like Mini MPVs and Compact MPVs.

## Microvan

If the word 'cute' could ever be used to describe a certain vehicle, then it must surely apply to the microvan. Essentially a smaller, more compressed minibus, the vast majority of microvans come with two standard front doors and a rear sliding door for passengers. The Chinese-made Wuling Sunshine is currently in vogue as the most popular microvan worldwide.

## Electric/Hybrid Van

Very much a product of modern technology, electric vans like the Renault Zoe and the Citroen Berlingo Electric (Citroen e-Berlingo) are the way to go if you're environmentally conscious and looking to cut down on those pesky emissions. Which can only be a good thing!

But if you're not looking to go quite that far, or don't want the hassle of charge points, hybrid vans offer a convenient middle ground between pure electric and (good?) old-fashioned fuel, with better fuel efficiency than your typical regular-powered vehicle.


## Pick-up Truck

Depending on its payload, the vehicle status of any individual [pick-up truck](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/pickup) can be quite blurry. Whilst not all can be called vans, they're definitely commercial vehicles and ideal if you're a farmer or tradesperson. Their toughness makes them well-suited to travelling long distances over challenging terrain, which is why they sometimes come as 4x4s.

Pick-up trucks live something of a double life, as they're also regarded as some of the most stylish vehicles around, the iconic shape driving many to purchase one as a lifestyle choice. We wouldn't blame you! Indeed, manufacturers are starting to include advanced luxury features, like with the [Ford Ranger](https://www.leaseloco.com/van-leasing/ford/ranger). The Volkswagen Amarok is another nifty choice.

## 4x4 Van

Or four-wheel drive, for the uninitiated. The 4x4 van is a less common van type, best-suited to those who might otherwise opt for a pick-up truck.

Like all four-wheel drive vehicles, 4x4 vans are great at navigating tricky terrain and enduring difficult road conditions like snow, dirt or ice. As such, you probably have to be living or driving regularly over a certain area to require one. However, it could also be used specifically for pleasure trips.



## FAQs

### What Is Van Payload?

This is a term which you're bound to come across when browsing. It basically refers to the overall weight (comprising load and passengers) that your vehicle can safely carry. It's very important not to exceed the maximum amount. Know your limits!

### Do I Need a Special License to Drive These Vans?

Thankfully, the majority of vans don't require you to have a special license, but some do and we've outlined where this may be necessary. Generally speaking, the heavier and more specialised the van is, the more likely it is you'll need an advanced license. Your standard car license lets you drive vans up to 3,500kg in weight.

### Is Leasing a Van Tax Deductible?

Fortunately, 100% of tax with a van lease is deductible, meaning you'll be able to claim it all back so long as you meet the criteria. Because when you lease a company car (or van) you don't own it, you technically rent it and that's an ongoing expense.

### Do I Need Specialist Insurance for My Van?

Your comprehensive car cover may allow you to borrow a certain van (e.g. for moving home), but if you're going to be buying or leasing a van, you'll need to be insured specifically for that van.

There are two main types of van cover. You should get private van insurance if you only plan on using your van for social and domestic driving. But if you're going to be using it professionally or for carrying tools, you're likely going to need business van insurance.

Of course, when you choose a certain policy, you're only legally covered to use your van in that pre-defined way and could be prosecuted for doing otherwise, so honesty is key.

Arriba!

A guide to the fifferent types of vans and how to find the right van for you. Get the cheapest van lease deals at Leaseloco.

Van Leasing

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