SPECIAL REPORT
VAN PLAN
Simon Joyce, Managing Director of Anchor Vans, one of the UK’s largest commercial hypermarkets, considers all the things you need to know when purchasing a van.
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rom a financial benefit the first, and perhaps most important, point to consider is buying/leasing a company van provides a great tax break – immediately you have a 100% write down allowance against corporation tax. Other key business benefits of owning/leasing a company van include the ability to make deliveries or collections anywhere, at a time that suits you. Plus, you can carry more, and larger items, than in a car and your logo, company name and contact details displayed on your van, immediately demonstrates the professionalism of you and your company.
Right van for you It is absolutely key that you consider the following: ● What will the van be used for? ● What type of loads will the van need to carry i.e. equipment and/or tools, weight of loads, how will you get what you need into the van, will you need back and sliding side doors? ● Will you need to carry passengers? ● Will the van be used for local or long-distance travel to and from jobs? ● Will you need to modify your van to meet the requirements of your business? Do you need internal seating, cages or shelves?
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Van security Having decided to invest in the purchase or lease of a van, ensure that it is secure. UK crime and tool theft is increasing, so make sure tools/equipment are insured and keep all receipts as proof of purchase. Security features must be a priority, these include: ● Alarm/immobiliser ● Lockable toolboxes, deadlocks and slamlocks
14 JULY/AUGUST 2019 PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICIANS WHOLESALER
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Tinted windows Glazed rear windows can be a risk, so make sure that you fit steel windows grates Separate the cab and the load area with a bulkhead Fit an electronic GPS tracker – making it easier to recover your van if stolen, this can also lower your insurance premium With keyless entry, ensure that keys are stored in a metal container or in a ‘faraday’ pouch
Easy target You should take the following steps to ensure your van is not an ‘easy’ target: ● Remove all belongings – if you do have to leave things make sure they are out of sight