Leading vehicle auction company BCA is urging smaller installers to protect their assets when it comes to buying and selling vehicles – especially vans. It advises thinking about available options and being careful when specifying non-standard colours which could lose money when they come to sell.

It suggests that installers should look out for the following when purchasing a van:

  • Side loading doors – for urban environments
  • Solid rear doors – to prevent thieves seeing what is stored in the van
  • Ply-lining – provide inside out damage protection
  • Plenty of power – to get from one job to another quickly
  • lPower steering and 'in-van entertainment' – essential for vans leading a double life and for employees who regularly do long journeys
  • Air conditioning – for comfort.
Duncan Ward, business development manager of commercial vehicles for BCA UK, said: "Businesses need to know how to get the best from their commercial vehicles. This means they should buy the right van for the job, at the right price, and ensure they do everything to ensure a good price when they come to sell it again. This means understanding what the used buyer wants.

"In particular, we are urging businesses to consider the impact of branding and colour. Every business should make the most of the branding opportunities that their van fleet represents, but do it without compromising the potential value of the vehicles. Rather than respraying in the company colours and signwriting the van, consider modern options such as removable decals. Buy vans in a good standard factory finish, such as white, metallic silver, green or blue and keep them that way to ensure a quick and rewarding resale. Apply vinyl graphics so that branding can be easily removed when you're ready to sell. When it comes to options, consider choosing those that are favoured by used buyers. Side loading doors are practical for deliveries and make it easy to load and unload. Even if your drivers will never use it, get it fitted, because it will add value in the used market. It is also worth specifying a good level of driver comfort. Your own company drivers will appreciate it, and well equipped vans sell strongly in the used market."

Source

Security Installer