Smart preparation – the process of bringing vehicles back to 'showroom condition' through cold metal dent removal and repairs to interior and trim – is as important for vans as for cars when it comes to the used market.

That's the view of Duncan Ward, BCA's UK business development manager, commercial vehicles, who says pre-sale preparation is vital to maximise residual values at remarketing time.

He said: 'The remarketing rules for vans are no different than they are for cars – proper preparation and good presentation are vital if your LCVs are going to achieve the best possible price in the auction hall.

'The vendor must ensure the vehicles' condition is commensurate with its age and mileage and pre-sale preparation and trade name deletion is critical.

'For a 2000 model year van at 10,000 miles in good condition, but with a few small dents, Smart Prepared can be cost-efficient. The return on the investment to bring an older, higher-mileage van, with more damage, back to showroom condition is likely to be less rewarding.'

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