As a tradesperson, a reliable van isn’t just your way of getting around — it's an essential part of your business.
Whether you're a plumber, electrician, florist or carpenter, the right van can make all the difference to your work.
In this guide, we'll dig into the best work vans for various trades. We’ll give you an overview of their main features and specifications, plus the pros and cons of owning them.
Let’s go.
1. Ford Transit
Overview
As one of the UK’s most popular vans for more than 50 years, the Ford Transit has earned its reputation on the road. It's versatile and reliable, with multiple length, height and payload options available. Recent upgrades have improved comfort and technology, while maintaining the Transit's workhorse dependability.
Suitable for
With excellent accessibility and a range of models to choose from, the Transit is suitable for most tradespeople, couriers and delivery drivers. It offers the perfect balance of cargo capacity and ease of use.
Main features
- High payloads of up to 1,400kg
- Easy access via side doors and low load floor
- Different length and height options to choose from
Pros
- Maintains its value, with strong demand for second-hand models
- Relatively affordable servicing and maintenance costs
- Excellent visibility from driver's seat
Cons
- Not as prestigious as some other brands
- Entry-level models have basic interiors
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2. Mercedes Sprinter
Overview
A slightly more premium option for tradespeople is the Mercedes Sprinter. Available in different lengths and heights, it’s popular for its large cargo volumes and flexible configurations. Recent upgrades have added clever safety tech, while keeping all of its handy features such as the low load floor and standing height.
Suitable for
With class-leading cargo capacity, the Sprinter is ideal for bussiness and tradespeople and delivery drivers needing to carry large, heavy or awkward loads. The extra height and length make it a good option for carpenters, furniture removal businesses, carpet layers and couriers.
Main features
- Extra-long version available with 4.8m length
- Standing height of up to 2.1m
- Electric and diesel options
Pros
- Premium Mercedes-Benz interior features
- Holds its value really well
Cons
- One of the more expensive vans in its class
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3. Vauxhall Movano
Overview
Don't worry about the basic styling — the Vauxhall Movano is a workhorse van built for heavy-duty use. With some versions able to carry over 1.6 tonnes of tools or materials, it's one of the highest payload vans in its class. The Movano may lack some of the comforts of the Mercedes Sprinter, but it holds its own at efficiently transporting heavy loads across long distances.
Suitable for
With its class-leading payload capacities, the Movano is ideal for tradesmen, couriers and removal or delivery businesses needing to carry heavy goods. It's a dependable business van ready for any job.
Main features
- High payload ratings up to 1,690kg
- Large volumes from 8–17 cubic metres
Pros
- Easy cab access with low floor
- Parts shared with Renault Master
Cons
- Basic interior compared with other models
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4. Peugeot Boxer
Overview
This tough French work van is designed for challenging jobs and heavy-duty use. With its robust construction and dependability, it makes light work of carrying heavy tools, concrete, supplies and other demanding cargo. What it lacks in comfort, it makes up for in impressive reliability.
Suitable for
With its rugged design and heavy payload capacity, the Boxer (along with its sibling, the Citroen Relay) is ideal for tradespeople who want a tough, reliable work van. Great for builders, landscapers and tradespeople working in harsh conditions.
Main features
- Robust and reliable construction
- High payloads up to 1,400kg
Pros
- Durable design and finish
- Good value pricing and running costs
Cons
- Basic interior and comfort
- Not as advanced as newer rivals
Credit: Wikimedia Commons and licenced for reuse under cc-by-sa/4.0
5. Fiat Ducato
Overview
As a practical van with excellent payload capacities and low running costs, the Fiat Ducato is a budget-friendly option for tradespeople and small businesses. This value-for-money work van may lack premium features, but it delivers impressive cargo capacity and flexibility in a compact package.
Suitable for
With its smaller size and affordable ownership costs, the Fiat Ducato is ideal for tradespeople and delivery drivers working in busy urban areas where space is limited. It’s practical, efficient and easy to manoeuvre.
Main features
- Payload ratings of up to 1,900kg
- Load volumes of up to 17 cubic metres
Pros
- Great value pricing and low running costs
- Agile handling with front-wheel drive
Cons
- Standard design similar to Peugeot and Citroen models
- Limited engine choice
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6. Mercedes-Benz Citan
Overview
It may be small in size, but the Mercedes-Benz Citan boasts a surprisingly spacious interior. It also comes with all the luxury trimmings you’d expect from Mercedes, plus excellent fuel efficiency thanks to its advanced powertrain. It’s a compact all-rounder for any tradesperson.
Suitable for
Offering a premium driving experience in a small package, the Citan is an ideal business van for electricians, plumbers, couriers or delivery drivers navigating busy urban streets.
Main features
- One of the highest mpg ratings in its class
- Compact and easy to drive
Pros
- Lower running costs thanks to its excellent fuel efficiency
- Spacious cargo area for its size
Cons
- Not suitable for larger, heavier goods
Credit: Wikimedia Commons and licenced for reuse under cc-by-sa/4.0
7. Iveco Daily Electric
Overview
An eco-friendly electric van with generous driving range, the Iveco Daily Electric leads the way in zero-emissions work transportation. Offering up to 186 miles from a single charge, it alleviates range anxiety while providing a smooth, quiet driving experience. Despite battery weight, payload remains over 1.5 tonnes.
Suitable for
With its class-leading electric range, the Daily Electric is perfect for eco-conscious tradespeople needing reliable transportation between jobs.
Main features
- 186 mile driving range (4.25 tonne model with 3 batteries installed)
- Payload up to 1,615 kg
- Rapid charging capability
Pros
- Government electric vehicle grants available
- Lower service costs than diesel vans
Cons
- More expensive to buy than a diesel model
- Public rapid charging availability still limited
Credit: Wikimedia Commons and licenced for reuse under cc-by-sa/4.0
So, there you have it. A selection of great business vans to choose from, each model with its own unique benefits for all types of tradespeople and business owners. When choosing the right van for your work, be sure to consider things like upfront cost, fuel efficiency, capacity, size and comfort. You’ll also want to think about general running costs, like road tax, servicing and business van insurance.
With so many options out there, you’ll be sure to find the perfect work van for you.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most reliable work vans for tradespeople?
The Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter are often named as two of the most reliable work vans for tradespeople. The Transit is known for its versatility, low maintenance, and for holding its value. The Sprinter is loved for its spacious cargo area, premium comfort, and Mercedes-Benz build quality. Both vans are proven to be durable and reliable commercial vans.
Which work van has the highest payload capacity?
The Vauxhall Movano offers some of the best payload capacities among work vans. Certain versions can carry over 1.6 tonnes, making it ideal for transporting heavy materials and tools. The Movano lacks luxury features but provides rugged dependability and class-leading cargo capacity.
What is the best van for fuel efficiency?
The Mercedes-Benz Citan is one of the most fuel-efficient vans, with a stated rating of 61.4 MPG combined. Its tiny proportions, aerodynamic shape, and advanced diesel engine allow it to sip fuel while providing usable cargo space. The Citan is perfect for tradespeople who spend lots of time driving between jobs.
Which van has the most space?
With a huge 4.8 metre load length, the long-wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter offers masses of cargo volume. Some versions provide up to 17 cubic metres of space, allowing tradespeople to fit large, bulky items with ease. It's ideal for furniture removal companies, carpet layers and other businesses needing lots of storage.
What is the best small van for city driving?
The compact Fiat Ducato provides an agile, urban-friendly option for tradespeople and delivery drivers. Its narrow 2 metre width allows easy manoeuvring in tight city streets. Combined with excellent payload capacity up to 1.9 tonnes, the Ducato allows urban-based tradespeople to haul serious cargo in a small package.
Which van is the most eco-friendly choice?
For zero-emissions driving, the Iveco Daily Electric van is a top eco-friendly pick. It provides an impressive 186 mile electric driving range from a single charge (with three batteries installed) — exceeding most competitors. Despite its battery weight, the Daily Electric still offers 1.6 tonnes of payload capacity.
Which van has the lowest running costs?
Known for its fuel-efficient engine and value pricing, the Fiat Ducato offers relatively low running costs for budget-focused tradespeople. Its diesel powertrains achieve good fuel economy while service and parts pricing is very reasonable.
