When it comes to running most small businesses, transportation plays a crucial role in delivering goods and services to customers.
Indeed, if you are looking into popular and enjoyable jobs, such as dog walking, florist, or even running your own professional cleaning service, you are going to need a way to get about safely and with all of the appropriate equipment for the role.
However, choosing the right vehicle can be a daunting task, especially when considering whether a car or van would be better suited to the needs of the business.
In this short guide, the pros and cons of both vehicle options will be explored to help small business owners decide which option to purchase.
Vans; Why Are They So Popular?
Most vans on the market are designed to carry goods and equipment, making them a popular choice for many small businesses.
Even a transit custom van offers more cargo space than cars, which means that businesses can transport more items in one trip, saving time and money. Vans are also better equipped to handle heavy loads, which can be important for businesses that deal with larger and heavier items, such as moving furniture around.
Another advantage of vans is that they can be customized to meet the needs of a business. For example, businesses that require refrigerated transport or those that require a mobile workshop can modify the van to suit their needs. Vans can also accommodate multiple passengers, which is beneficial for businesses that require employees to travel together for work purposes.
Potential Downsides Of Vans
However, vans are not error-free. They are generally more expensive to buy or lease than cars, and they require more maintenance to keep them running safely.
They also have larger fuel tanks and use more fuel than cars, which can add up in terms of operating costs. Vans can also be more challenging to maneuver in traffic or tight spaces, which can be a hindrance in some situations.
So, you will need to factor in all of these costs for your business and determine whether buying or leasing a van is a better option for your business.
Cars: Is The Smaller Size an Issue?
Cars are generally smaller and more agile than vans, making them ideal for navigating through traffic and tight spaces. They are also more fuel-efficient than vans, which can translate to lower operating costs for the business.
Cars are also generally cheaper to buy or lease than vans, and they require less maintenance. This is especially important for small businesses that may have limited funds to allocate toward vehicle expenses.
Potential Issues You May Face
However, cars also have their limitations. They have less cargo space than vans, which can make it challenging to transport larger items or multiple packages at once.
Imagine if you are a dog walker and you have a busy morning schedule. In a car, it is unlikely you will have space for a group of larger dogs, and this can lead to additional trips or having to make multiple stops, which can be time-consuming and costly in terms of fuel expenses.
Additionally, if the business requires employees to travel together for work-related purposes, such as sales visits or deliveries, a car may not be the most practical option unless you are able to afford more than one!
