🚐 The UK van market is changing — and fast. As we head into September 2025, used vans are outselling new models across the country. For tradespeople and small businesses in Merseyside, this shift isn’t just industry chatter — it’s shaping real buying decisions right now.
📉 Why New Van Sales Are Falling Behind
This year has been tough for new van sales. Registrations have dropped again, with many businesses put off by:
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Long wait times (still several months for popular models)
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Rising prices (up to 20% higher than just two years ago)
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Stricter emission rules affecting diesel buyers
For many local trades, the question isn’t “Can I get a new van?” but “Is it even worth it anymore?”
📈 Why Used Vans Are Winning in 2025
💷 Better value – Buying nearly new often saves thousands compared with a brand-new model. Plus, depreciation is gentler, making used vans a safer investment.
⏱ Ready to drive today – With no factory backlogs, used vans are available immediately — ideal for busy tradespeople who can’t afford downtime.
🛠 Proven reliability – Modern vans like the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro are built to last. When bought with a full service history, they perform just as well as new.
🌍 ULEZ-compliant options – Many of the used vans on our forecourt already meet Euro 6 standards, helping drivers avoid costly clean air zone charges across Liverpool, Manchester, and beyond. For more insight, see our guide on ULEZ-compliant vans in 2025.
🛒 September’s Most In-Demand Vans
The searches we’re seeing locally echo what’s happening nationally:
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Compact vans – The likes of the Peugeot Partner and Vauxhall Combo are booming in popularity. They’re practical for city jobs and offer big savings on fuel and insurance. Our earlier feature on compact van growth explains why small vans are making such big moves in 2025.
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Medium vans – The Transit Custom and Vivaro remain the North West’s top workhorses. If you’re weighing up which suits your trade, check out our head-to-head comparison.
💡 What This Means for Local Buyers
For businesses in St Helens, Widnes, Warrington, or Liverpool, September is a sweet spot. Supply is still steady, prices haven’t spiked, and demand is strong — especially for ULEZ-ready models.
We’re also seeing growing interest in finance options that make upgrading more manageable. If affordability is top of mind, our guide on van finance explained shows how to spread the cost of your next workhorse.
✅ Final Word: Why Waiting Could Cost More
In short, the smart money is on used vans in 2025. They’re cheaper, available straight away, and already ticking the compliance boxes businesses need. With autumn bringing a surge in demand, acting now could save you both money and downtime.
👉 Browse our latest used van stock and see why more North West businesses are making the switch.
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