Early sales at Blackbushe, Belle Vue and Measham saw large crowds of buyers attending, competitive bidding and strong prices.

BCA’s UK Business Development Manager - Commercial Vehicles Duncan Ward commented “Whatever the reasons – low interest rates or the booming small business sector – sales of light vans were exceptional throughout last year and already in 2005 we are seeing that demand continuing. January has seen both the trade and end-users out in force, bidding strongly across a range of vehicles and keeping prices firm.”

Ward continued ‘The late year low mileage market continues to be short of good quality clean stock, so any examples tend be tussled over by buyers. Despite the many incentives in the new market that could dampen enthusiasm, this has not affected nearly new prices in the used market. Where low mileage isn’t available, buyers will go for more traveled examples, but the condition must be excellent and the presentation to the highest standards.

‘The last few weeks have seen strong demand for vehicles to serve the delivery and produce markets with lutons and fridge vans selling well.

‘Interest in car-sized vans has picked up quickly in the New Year and with such a great range of product available, buyers are spoilt for choice – this does mean sellers should be aware of market sentiment and ensure their vehicles are valued to be sold.’

Panel vans have been selling well, with buyers showing the most interest in anything that is a little different in terms of specification, trim and colour – in fact anything unusual or rare can make significantly above expectations. It’s worth noting that engine power is a crucial factor for buyers and as a rule of thumb the greater the horsepower the more desirable the van.

‘Any commercial vehicle that could play a role in the construction and related industries is sought after, so tippers, dropsides and cranes continue to do well and LWB panel vans are in demand, providing they are clean and straight.

‘The three-year-old contract hire market remains the benchmark sector, with high conversions and strong price performance. Professional buyers know that they will be presented with well-maintained and prepared vehicles, with all the necessary documentation to attract a retail customer. The end-user buyer likes the comfort that a well-known brand name in the log-book brings.’

The single most important price-defining factor across all sectors of the commercial vehicle market is condition, however. If sellers get that right, there will be no shortage of buyers for their stock.

Recent prices achieved

Model=Miles=Price=Vs CAP Clean

00X Ford Courier Tdi 61,000 £2,300 142%
99T Ford Transit 190 LWB Luton 38,000 £6,500 131%
0202 Vauxhall Astra LS DTi 94,000 £3,550 123%
0303 Citroen Berlingo 600 LX 25,000 £4,400 126%
00X Volkswagen Caddy Pick-Up 79,938 £2,700 156%
00X Volkswagen Caddy Pick-Up 86,412 £2,550 152%
00W Toyota Hi-Lux 4x4 D/Cab Pick-Up 127,000 £4,400 119%
99T Ford Transit 100 SWB 81,100 £2,750 122%