How much is my van worth?

How van valuation works

Our free UK van valuation tool gives you an instant estimate of what your van is worth, based on published manufacturer list prices, Office for National Statistics inflation data, and depreciation patterns from SMMT, Cap HPI reports, and industry sources.

We start with the original list price (excluding VAT) for your van's make, model, and fuel type. We adjust this for the year it was registered using ONS new-vehicle price inflation data, then apply depreciation curves that reflect how vans lose value over time.

Your van's actual value depends on mileage (vans average 20,000 miles per year), condition (excellent to poor), service history, specification level, and current market demand. We apply these factors to give you a realistic trade value range—what a dealer or buying service might pay—plus a private-sale estimate, which is typically 15–25% higher.

What affects van values

Mileage

Commercial vans average 20,000 miles per year. If your van has lower mileage for its age, it's typically worth more (up to 12% premium for very low mileage). High mileage reduces value, but the effect is capped at -30%.

Condition

Excellent condition (no damage, clean, everything works) adds value. Good condition (normal wear for age) is our baseline. Fair (noticeable wear or minor faults) and poor (significant damage or mechanical needs) reduce value.

Electric vs diesel

Electric van depreciation data is mixed. Some studies show stronger retention (52% at 3 years vs 43% diesel, per Loads of Vans/Cap HPI), but other evidence suggests steeper early depreciation. Our electric van curve uses a deliberately wide band (26–48% at 3 years) to reflect this uncertainty.

Pickups and BIK changes

Double-cab pickups registered from 6 April 2025 are taxed as cars for Benefit-in-Kind, not commercial vehicles. Cap HPI (July 2026) warns this has depressed used values due to oversupply, though long-term values may stabilise.

Trade value vs private sale

Trade value is what a dealer, buying service, or part-exchange offer might be. It's quick and convenient but typically lower because the buyer needs to make a margin.

Private sale is selling to another individual, usually for 15–25% more than trade. It takes longer, requires advertising, handling viewings, and managing the paperwork and payment.

VAT considerations

All our figures are excluding VAT. If you're VAT-registered and buying from a VAT-registered seller, you can reclaim the VAT. If you're selling and VAT-registered, you may need to charge VAT—check with your accountant. Private sales to non-VAT-registered buyers don't include VAT.

Estimate, not an offer

Our valuations are estimates based on published data. They're not Cap HPI or Glass's Guide formal valuations, not offers to purchase, and not guarantees. Real offers depend on a full inspection, service history check, MOT status, and current market demand.

For a firm offer, use Carwow to get quotes from trusted dealers. They'll make offers based on your van's actual condition.