The true cost of a company van combines what you pay to obtain it with what it costs to keep it working and what it is worth when you dispose of it.
Start with acquisition
Include purchase price or rentals, finance charges, initial fees, racking, signwriting and other equipment needed before the van can work.
Add operating costs
Fuel or electricity, servicing, repairs, tyres, tax, insurance and cleaning should all be included. Use a full year where possible.
Allow for downtime
Hire vehicles, missed appointments and staff disruption are real costs even if they never appear in the vehicle ledger.
Subtract expected resale value
For owned vans, expected disposal proceeds reduce the lifetime cost. Revisit the estimate as mileage and condition change.
Keep the decision practical. Use your own mileage, vehicle use, costs and business needs. Tax, finance and insurance terms vary, so check current information before committing.