Van values on the rise

Dealers making van disposals through auctions are currently enjoying record returns with demand for good quality models outstripping supply but they are losing out on new sales because of limited manufacturer supply.

Manheim's research, which covered the last quarter of 2006 and the first quarter of 2007, found prices rose across all van sizes by an average of 9 per cent with a 14 per cent high recorded in the large panel van sector.

“The increase in used van prices is on the back of operators reporting reduced stocking levels of some new vans by manufacturers which has forced them to extend their replacement cycles,” said Alex Wright, commercial vehicle sales director.

The average selling prices of car-derived vans rose by more than 5 per cent in the period while small panel vans climbed 6 per cent. Panel vans weighing more than 3 tonnes rose 9 per cent during the final quarter of 2006 before dipping slightly during the first quarter of 2007. Manheim also said silver is becoming an increasingly popular colour for new vans sourced by fleets and warned this could begin to impact their previously strong resale values. “More and more silver vans across the weight ranges are being defleeted by the leasing sector, having been used under contract for longer periods. The increasing availability is clearly affecting the high residual value premium they once enjoyed,” said Wright.