Mirroring the declining used car market, the prices being paid for used fleet and lease vans have fallen to their lowest point in 2008.

According to data from BCA’s Pulse report, used fleet and lease vans averaged just £3,979 in May - the first time values have dipped below £4,000 this year.

This was a drop of £147 compared to the previous month - equivalent to a significant 3.5% drop.

“We reported the market slowing in April and this has continued in May,” said Duncan Ward BCA's UK business development manager - commercial vehicles.

“We are seeing more unsold stock than earlier in the year and conversion rates have fallen.”

Buyers, he said, want fresh stock and first time entered and realistically valued vans are selling well with sales converting in excess of 70%.

“Re-entered vehicles however are struggling to get the buyer’s attention unless there has been a sensible price adjustment.”