How Van Leasing Works
Van leasing, also called van contract hire, lets your business use a new van for a fixed monthly payment without buying it. Here is how it works from start to finish. You can browse our full range on the van leasing page.
1. Choose your van
Start with the job the van has to do. Think about payload, load length, and whether you need a panel van, a crew cab or something smaller. Then pick the engine and trim. Our deals page lists every van we offer with its monthly price.
2. Set your term and mileage
Most van leases run for 24, 36 or 48 months. You also choose an annual mileage. Be honest here. A higher mileage raises the monthly payment, but exceeding a low mileage limit means paying an excess charge per mile when the van goes back. If you are not sure, look at what your current van does in a year and add a small buffer.
You will also choose your initial rental, which is a larger first payment. A bigger initial rental usually means a lower monthly payment.
3. Credit check
The funder runs a credit check on your business before approving the agreement. Limited companies are assessed on their accounts and trading history. Sole traders and partnerships may be assessed on the owners' personal credit files as well. Being approved is not guaranteed.
4. Sign the agreement
Once approved, you will receive the paperwork to sign, usually electronically. Read it carefully, particularly the mileage limits, the maintenance terms and the end-of-contract conditions. Ask us if anything is unclear.
5. Delivery
The van is ordered and delivered to your business or a place you choose. Delivery times depend on the van and how quickly the manufacturer can supply it, so ask for an estimate when you order. From delivery, you pay the same monthly amount for the length of the term.
6. During the lease
You are responsible for keeping the van insured, serviced and in fair condition. Because the van is new, it will normally be covered by the manufacturer's warranty for much of the term. For VAT-registered businesses, VAT on the rentals can usually be reclaimed in full where the van is used for business only. Check this with your accountant.
7. The end of the lease
When the term ends, you return the van. It will be inspected against fair wear and tear guidelines, and you will pay for any excess mileage or damage beyond normal use. Then you can walk away, or start a new lease on a newer van.
Ready to start?
Compare monthly prices on our van deals, or read why leasing suits smaller firms in our guide to van leasing for small businesses.
Swiss Vans Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker, not a lender. FRN 668283.