🚐 September is always a key month for van buyers. Not only do we see the arrival of the new registration plates, but it’s also when the latest government finance and tax updates start to bite. For businesses across Merseyside, Liverpool, Warrington, and the wider North West, these changes can have a real impact on the cost of running a van — and the timing of your next purchase.
📊 The Big Tax Updates for September 2025
💷 Van Benefit Charge (VBC) – HMRC has confirmed the increase to £4,020 for 2025/26, meaning that employees with access to a company van for personal use will see higher taxable benefits.
🛢 Van Fuel Benefit Charge – This rises to £769, further raising the cost for businesses offering fuel-inclusive packages.
🚘 Double-Cab Pickup Reclassification – From April 2025, most double-cab pickups are officially treated as cars for tax purposes, removing the lower van benefit treatment. If you run crew cabs, this is a major consideration ahead of your next vehicle change.
⚡ Electric Vans Still Attractive – The benefit-in-kind (BIK) rate for zero-emission vans remains at 0% until 2025, making EVs like the Vivaro-e or Ford E-Transit particularly appealing for businesses in clean air zones.
👉 For context, HMRC’s guidance shows how these changes affect benefit-in-kind calculations and payroll deductions.
🔑 What This Means for North West Van Buyers
📉 Higher Running Costs – Businesses offering private-use vans to staff will pay more in tax. If you’re renewing a finance deal or upgrading your fleet, September is the perfect time to reassess your mix of vehicles.
⚖️ Shift Towards Smaller & More Efficient Vans – With costs rising, many businesses are trading down to efficient vans like the Citroën Berlingo or Vauxhall Combo, which are cheaper to run and often exempt from stricter emissions charges.
⚡ Electric Still Makes Sense – While upfront costs remain higher, the tax advantages and exemption from fuel benefit charges mean electric vans are becoming the smarter long-term play, especially for city-based operators.
🛠 Smart Finance Strategies This September
💡 Use the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) – Businesses can still claim 100% tax relief on qualifying van purchases. That means buying in September could offset profits immediately and reduce your next tax bill.
💡 Leasing vs. HP – Leasing remains popular with VAT-registered businesses as you can reclaim VAT on payments. Hire Purchase (HP) works better for firms wanting outright ownership at the end. If you’re not sure which option fits your situation, our full guide to van finance explained breaks down the choices clearly.
💡 Plan Ahead for April 2026 – With further rises expected in benefit-in-kind charges, making your move now could save thousands over the next few years.
🚛 Why September is a Smart Month to Buy
📈 September isn’t just about tax — it’s also when used stock is strongest thanks to plate-change trade-ins. That means Merseyside Van Sales has more choice than ever right now, including Ford Transit Customs, Vauxhall Vivaros, and Peugeot Experts ready to drive away.
If you’re weighing up whether to buy new, used, or electric, our recent breakdown of UK van market trends in 2025 can help you make sense of the bigger picture.
✅ Final Word
📌 September’s finance and tax updates bring extra costs for van users, but also new opportunities to save if you plan smartly. Whether it’s switching to electric, downsizing to a more efficient van, or taking advantage of the AIA, there’s no better time to review your options.
👉 At Merseyside Van Sales, our team in St Helens is here to guide you through the changes and find the right van — and finance deal — for your business.
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