Will the van do the job?
Dimensions and weight
Measure what needs to fit, including shelving and lining. Load space describes the available room. Payload describes the weight you can add. Include tools, materials, equipment and occupants when checking the total permitted weight.
Access and everyday use
Check door openings, internal dimensions, seating and parking clearance. Towing a trailer? Verify the permitted towing weight of the exact version. The model name alone is not enough. Check the registration details with the RDW.
Equipment on the quotation
Have the base vehicle, bodywork, accessories, installation and VAT shown separately. The lender decides which items may be financed. Do not assume every addition will qualify.
Financing a van when you are self-employed
Your van needs to be affordable beyond the day you buy it. Budget for the finance payment alongside insurance, maintenance, tax and fuel or charging. Consider lost working time if the van needs repairs.
Look at the cash left after business expenses, tax reserves and personal drawings. With irregular assignments, check whether the costs still fit a quieter month. A larger down payment can reduce the monthly payment but leaves less cash available.
The application may require recent figures, bank transactions or current assignments. We explain which information the lender needs. Read more about financial lease for self-employed professionals.
What should you check before agreeing the purchase?
For a used van: ask about service history, upcoming repairs, warranty and previous use. Low mileage does not tell you how heavily it was used. Arrange an independent inspection when needed. We do not carry out technical inspections.
For city journeys: check whether the registration allows access to the areas where you work. Look at changes during your intended finance term too. A low-emission zone and a zero-emission zone are not the same. Check the current information on Op weg naar ZES, in Dutch.
For the price: confirm whether VAT, equipment and delivery charges are included. A Dutch commercial vehicle registration, often called a grijs kenteken, does not automatically qualify you for every tax benefit. Ask your accountant to consider both the vehicle and its use.
How should the finance match the vehicle?
Match the term to the van's age, condition and expected useful life. A final payment can reduce the monthly payment, but you still have to settle that amount at the end. Do not rely on a guaranteed resale value.
Send us the advert or quotation. We discuss your down payment and prepare the application with you. Agree payment and collection arrangements only once the outstanding conditions are clear.
Questions about commercial vehicle finance
Is there a maximum age for a used van?
There is no single limit for every lender and application. Age, mileage, value and the proposed term are considered together. See our used vehicle checks too.
Is maintenance included in the monthly payment?
Normally not with financial lease. You arrange maintenance, insurance, tax and running costs separately. Allow a repair reserve in your budget.
Can I start before choosing a van?
Yes. Tell us what you carry, how far you drive and the space you need. This makes the search more useful than starting with a brand and monthly figure alone.
Have a van in mind?
Send the advert or quotation. Include any equipment or fit-out you need.