If you’re a sole trader or small business owner, the right van can make all the difference to your day-to-day. But what’s the best way to get your hands on one? Since you’re here, you’ve probably already realised that van leasing is a great way to skip the hassle and upfront cost of owning – so that just leaves the question: should you go for a short-term lease, or a long-term lease?
Let’s break it down in plain English so you can pick the option that suits your business needs without wasting time or money.
Key Takaways:-
- Short-term van leasing: the flexible choice
- Long-term van leasing: For when you need stability
- How much does van leasing cost?
- What about vehicle options?
- The verdict: which is right for you?
Short-term van leasing: the flexible choice
Short-term van leasing does exactly what it says on the tin. You can lease a van for a shorter period – usually around 12 months. It’s a great option if you don’t need a van long-term or if you’ve got a specific job or contract to cover.
The pros
- No long commitments: If you only need a van for a short while, why lock yourself into a two- or three-year deal? A shorter lease term lets you walk away when the job’s done.
- Try before you commit: It’s perfect if you’re unsure what type of van fits your business best or if you’re testing out new contracts.
- Low upfront costs: With most leasing deals, you’ll avoid forking out big upfront payments, which helps with cash flow.
The cons
- Higher monthly costs: You’ll pay more each month compared to a long-term lease.
- Mileage caps: If you’re planning to rack up loads of miles, check your mileage allowance. Going over the limit could mean additional charges.
- Lots of vehicle changes: If switching vans every 12 months sounds like a hassle, short-term leasing might not be for you.
Long-term van leasing: For when you need stability
If your business runs on consistency, a long-term lease could be the smarter choice. These deals typically last two to five years, giving you access to a reliable van without the stress of owning it outright.
The pros
- Lower monthly payments: Because you’re spreading the cost over a longer lease period, your monthly payments are more manageable.
- Predictability: No need to constantly swap vehicles or worry about what comes next. You’ve got your van sorted for the long haul.
- Perfect for stable businesses: If you’ve got regular jobs or contracts, a longer-term lease keeps your transport costs steady.
The cons
- Locked in: Once you’ve signed the lease contract, it can be pricey to break it early if your needs change.
- Upfront costs: While long-term leasing spreads out your payments, you might need a bigger deposit at the start.
- Commitment to a single van: If your work changes and you need a different size or style of van, you’re stuck until the lease ends.
How much does van leasing cost?
Cost is a big deal when deciding between a short-term lease and a long-term lease. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Short-term leasing: Expect higher monthly payments but fewer upfront costs. Our 12-month lease deals start at £349 per month.
- Long-term leasing: You’ll get lower monthly costs, but you might need a larger initial payment. Our 36-month lease deals start at just £329 per month.
Don’t forget to budget for things like insurance and fuel, as these aren’t always included in your lease package.
What about vehicle options?
Whether you go short- or long-term, First Step offers a wide range of vehicles to suit different needs. Looking for something compact for city deliveries? Sorted. Need a larger van for heavy loads? No problem. Thanks to great Ford and Mercedes lease deals you can drive away in a premium van that fits your needs, without any big upfront costs.
Leasing also means you’ll often get access to the latest models, so you’re not stuck driving an outdated model that feels like it’s on its last legs.
The verdict: which is right for you?
If your business is unpredictable or you’ve got a one-off job, short-term van leasing is the way to go. It’s flexible, hassle-free, and lets you get the job done without getting tied down.
On the other hand, if you need stability and want to save a bit of money over time, a long-term lease is the smarter choice. It’s great for keeping things steady and gives you peace of mind knowing you’ve got your transport sorted for years to come.
No matter what kind of lease you’re after – short-term or long-term – we’ve got you covered. With cheap lease deals on all kinds of vans, from VW to Toyota and more, we’re here to make sure you get the perfect fit for your business. Ready to find your next van? Browse our range online today, or give us a call and let our team help you hit the road hassle-free.