Used van market demonstrates strong health with positive Q1 results

The used van market has kicked off 2025 on a strong note, with new figures from Manheim highlighting impressive first quarter growth across key performance indicators.

Sold volumes rose by 21% year-on-year in Q1 2025, reflecting increased demand across the sector. Average selling prices also saw upward momentum, with a £554 rise recorded between February and March. Notably, 22% of stock sold above the guide price, signalling robust buyer appetite and competitive bidding.

Market health indicators also trended positively. Used vans sold faster and with improved first-time conversion rates, pointing to a well-balanced dynamic between supply and demand.

There were signs of improving vehicle quality as well. The average age of used vans sold in Q1 was 71 months (just under six years), with average mileage falling to 79,822 miles.

However, the market continues to see a clear split between vehicle types. Just 15.4% of vans fell into the "prime" stock category - defined as under three years old and with fewer than 60,000 miles.

These vehicles remain in high demand, fetching an average of 6.8% above guide prices. Meanwhile, the majority (84.6%) of the market consisted of older stock, averaging 113,718 miles and commanding a lower average price of £5,625, which continues to attract budget-conscious buyers.

Matthew Davock, director of commercial vehicles at Manheim UK, said: “Fleet and rental operators are refreshing their assets more frequently, which is driving down the average age of available stock. While prime vehicles are increasingly scarce and hotly contested, older vans continue to offer strong value for cost-conscious tradespeople. This balance underpins a healthy and stable used van marketplace.”

Manheim also reported a significant rise in used electric van volumes, with a 62.6% increase in arrivals across its sites during Q1. These EVs are younger, averaging 42 months in age and 29,000 miles in mileage. Despite this, buyer hesitation around electric vans remains. Only 40% sold first time, achieving just 88% of guide prices.

Davock added:“Confidence in used electric vans is still developing. With over 2,500 units currently advised for retail and more hitting the market, stronger incentives and clearer messaging around the benefits of EV ownership will be crucial to drive greater adoption.”