Best Small Business Cargo Vans

For many small businesses, the cargo van, whether it is large, midsized or small, is the backbone of the operation — a veritable workhorse for transporting tools, equipment and workers to wherever the work awaits, such as a job site or a customer's home.

As a result, your purchase has much to do with the kind of work you do, as well as your customers and your employees. It's essential you buy a good-quality vehicle that meets the demands of your particular trade.

In this guide, we provide an overview of the best work vans for businesses, the kind of gas mileage you can expect, the amount of space in the cargo area, payload capacities, powertrains and even resale values. We'll guide you through the benefits of investing in a work van and what industries should consider adding a cargo van into their lineup.

Top Cargo Vans for Your Business

Here are the best cargo vans you should consider buying:

1. 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van

If you're looking for a van to deal with lots of heavy-duty work, a Mercedes-Benz Sprinteris a good choice. It also has a large loading capacity and some attractive extra features. Its maintenance costs can be high, but its high top and excellent gas mileage mean you can get a lot done.

There are many available trims. The standard Sprinter Cargo Van 2500 has an overall height of 100 inches and a length of 234 inches. The standing height is 68 inches, while the cargo bed length is 133 inches. In addition to the standard diesel engines, it's also available in a 2-liter turbo gasoline engine. Another popular new option is the 4x4 Sprinter, built for off-road conditions. With top-of-the-line features and ample cargo space, the Sprinter is well worth the price.

• Starting price: $49,000 for the 2500
• Gas mileage: 14-17 miles per gallon
• Cargo space: 533 cubic feet
• Max payload: 4,211 pounds

2. 2023 Mercedes Metris Van

The Mercedes Metric cargo van is another offering from Mercedes-Benz that gives you excellent gas mileage. It's a great buy if cargo van fuel economy is a concern. Although relatively new to the American market, it has been available in Europe since the mid-'90s. It's about the size of a minivan, but its generous payload capacity makes it one of the best large cargo vans. While it is still expensive for a smaller cargo van, its wide-reaching benefits are worthwhile.

• Starting price: $39,600
• Gas mileage: 19 miles per gallon city and 23 miles per gallon highway
• Cargo space: 183 cubic feet
• Max payload: 2,205 pounds

3. 2023 RAM ProMaster Van

While the RAM ProMaster vanhas only been available in America for a few years, European customers have been able to buy the ProMaster for more than three decades as the Fiat Ducato. Unlike many other full-sized vans, the ProMaster features front-wheel drive. The ProMaster comes in three models — 1500, 2500 or 3500. It also has either a standard roof size or a high roof and comes in various lengths. The ProMaster offers the best options for a comfortably low-load floor and step-in height.

• Starting price: $44,170
• Gas mileage: 14 miles per gallon
• Cargo space: 259 cubic feet
• Max payload: 4,000 pounds

4. 2023 RAM ProMaster City Van

While the RAM ProMaster van has only been available in America for a few years, European customers have been able to buy the ProMaster for more than three decades as the Fiat Ducato. Unlike many other full-sized vans, the ProMaster features front-wheel drive. The ProMaster comes in three models — 1500, 2500 or 3500. It also has either a standard roof size or a high roof and comes in various lengths. The ProMaster offers the best options for a comfortably low-load floor and step-in height.

• Starting price: $44,170
• Gas mileage: 14 miles per gallon
• Cargo space: 259 cubic feet
• Max payload: 4,000 pounds

5. 2023 Ford Transit Van

The cargo space in theFord Transit van is one of its best features, which is probably the reason it remains one of the best-selling commercial vans in the United States. When you purchase a high roof option, a 6-foot-tall person can stand up in the cargo space. It is also available with factory all-wheel drive, which is perfect for companies that still work even in the snow. You can create various different configurations of the Transit van.

• Starting price:$44,455
• Gas mileage: 17 miles per gallon
• Cargo space: 280.9 for the standard model, up to 536.4 cubic feet for the long-EL
• Max payload: 3,060 to 5,110 pounds

6. 2023 Ford Transit Connect Van

Smaller vans like theFord Transit Connect have been popular in Europe for many years. The impressive mileage of the Transit Connect makes it an optimal choice for businesses that cover a vast area. You can choose between swing-out rear cargo doors that provide 180 degrees of clearance or a rear liftgate. You can also select a variety of advanced convenience and safety features, such as Ford MyKey, which allows owners or administrators to preset speed or audio volumes. An alarm goes off when a driver exceeds these limits.

• Starting price: $34,100
• Gas mileage: 24 miles per gallon city and 26 miles per gallon highway
• Cargo space: 104.8 cubic feet
• Max payload: 1,510 pounds

7. 2023 Chevrolet Express and 2024 GMC Savana

The Chevrolet Expressand GMC Savanahave been around for many years because these vans are true workhorses with some impressive abilities. These are heavy-duty vans for heavy-duty work. These General Motors vans still come with a sliding or split-swing door that is only available on the right side. These big vans also have a remarkable towing capacity and excellent gas mileage. Both the Express and the Savana are available in regular or extended versions.

• Starting price: $38,100 for the Chevrolet Express and $40,700 for the GMC Savana
• Gas mileage: 14 miles per gallon combined on the Express
• Cargo space: 239.40 cubic feet for the Express and 284.4 cubic feet for the Savana
• Max payload: 4,280 pounds for the Express and 3,280 for the regular Savana

Shop Products by Vehicle

Comparing Cargo Vans by Price Range

The price range of any vehicle will depend on the configuration you choose and the added features you desire. But to help you determine the best prices for work vans, here are the 2023-2024 starting manufacturer-suggested retail prices without any options in each category:

1. Large Vans

Having a large van doesn't necessarily mean you can't experience some impressive gas mileage. Below is an MPG comparison between the best conversion vans. Note that these are estimates only:

1. Ford Transit: 17 miles per gallon
2. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: 14 miles per gallon
3. RAM ProMaster: 14 miles per gallon
4. Chevrolet Express: 14 miles per gallon

2. Compact Vans

Your business may benefit from a smaller compact van rather than something large. Here are some of the best compact vans and their prices, from low to high:

1. Ford Transit Connect: $25,175
2. RAM ProMaster City: $29,395
3. Mercedes-Benz Metris: $34,900

Which Cargo Vans Have the Best Gas Mileage?

The prominence of gas mileage can go one way or the other in the mind of an owner or fleet operator. No one wants to get bad gas mileage, but it might be secondary to having more cargo space or the ability to tow a larger object. The industry you work in and your business location will also be critical factors when it comes down to deciding how heavily to weigh a vehicle's gas mileage stats.

Some van models offer engine options that provide varying fuel economies. We have based the ratings below on the most efficient engine for each model.

Large Vans

Having a large van doesn't necessarily mean you can't experience some impressive gas mileage. Below is an MPG comparison between the best large cargo vans. Note that these are estimates only:

1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: 24.5 miles per gallon
2. Ford Transit: 15 miles per gallon
3. RAM ProMaster: 14 miles per gallon
4. Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana: 14 miles per gallon

Compact Vans

These smaller vans can go a lot farther on a gallon compared to their large counterparts. Here is the MPG that each of these smaller vans offers:

1. Ford Transit Connect: 24 miles per gallon
2. RAM ProMaster City: 21 miles per gallon
3. Mercedes-Benz Metris: 19 miles per gallon

Work Vans With the Most Cargo Space

When you're buying a van for your business, you need to know how much workspace you're going to have for cargo and tools. All the work vans we previewed above offer cargo space of differing sizes. Here's a rundown of the vans that offer the most room in large and compact categories.

1. Large Vans

If you need a big vehicle with a lot of work van cargo space, here are the top three:

1. Ford Transit: The most extensive configuration offers 536.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
2. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Its high roof extended version offers a cargo space of 533 cubic feet.
3. Ram ProMaster: The largest configuration offers a cargo space of 520 cubic feet.

2. Small Cargo Vans

Don't need a big vanbut like the idea of generous cargo space? The Mercedes-Benz Metris is your best option. It has a considerable 199.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the longer wheelbase.

Remember, lots of cargo space and payload can also become pluses or minuses when you compare them to other features you are looking for.

Best Resale Value

Like other products, vehicles lose their resale value over time, yet some will definitely be worth more than others. Resale value, of course, comes down to several factors that include not only how the manufacturer constructed the vehicle but also how you treated it. If a commercial work van has adequate protections for its floors and walls, you're likely to get a reasonable resale price, regardless of the make or model you choose.

That said, here are the top vans in each category with the best resale value:

1. Large Van — Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

With its diesel engine and excellent reliability, the Sprinter typically realizes the highest resale value when compared with its other large van counterparts. Although more expensive than other models to purchase and maintain, it typically lasts longer than other vans.

2. Compact Van — Ford Transit Connect

The Transit Connect has several features owners of small businesses will love. It has lots of cargo space for a compact van, but also drives and has fuel economy like an ordinary car. The various features and additional cargo space make the Ford Transit Connect an excellent business expenditure, but the fuel economy is really what drives it home. This van is suitable for businesses that travel great distances to serve their customers, making it a vehicle that has seen strong resale values.

Other Considerations for Work Vans

Of course, these aren't the only factors to consider when looking for a work van. It will also help to consider what will work best for your business, whether that's a large van or something more compact. Here are some other points to note in your cargo van comparison.

Large Vans

Each large van has unique features that will benefit businesses differently. Different brands promise different things, so compare and contrast each to decide what is right for you:

1. Ford Transit

There is a good reason why the Transit usually outsells every other van. It is designed from the ground up for commercial use. The interior is functional, and the adjustable steering column and driver's seat can help you get comfortable, even if you're on the taller side. The highest roof option on the 2023 model offers almost six feet of cargo height.

2. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

This van has built a reputation for reliability. Its diesel engine provides plenty of power, and its handling is markedly better than its competitors. It has an impressive 15,000-mile service interval, but the maintenance cost is typically high. It has a large cab and a variety of custom packages. It costs more than the others but promises more, such as active brake assist included in all standard models.

3. RAM ProMaster

The ProMaster has the best turning radius of any model and a wide selection of configuration options. It also has a low load floor thanks to its front-wheel drive. You can choose from two roof heights and three wheelbase lengths. It has huge side mirrors, but not everyone is a fan of its European design.

4. Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana

The Express and Savana have low maintenance costs and a plethora of dealerships in the U.S. for easy access to service. The design is a little outdated, but they have lots of towing power. The Express has a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty if purchased new. Used versions come without the warranty but still maintain all of the benefits.

Compact Vans

Smaller vans are perfect for smaller companies, and there are various factors to consider before choosing your preferred model:

1. Mercedes-Benz Metris

The compact Mercedes has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine that produces 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It also has a seven-speed automatic transmission. That's a lot to offer, but it comes at a high price — it's the most expensive of all the compact vans surveyed.

2.Ford Transit Connect

Ford's Transit Connect is the top-selling compact van in America. It has front-wheel drive and excellent fuel economy but lacks the maximum payload of other small commercial vans.

The Top Vans to Consider

So which is the best van to buy? That is, of course, a personal decision that depends on your business needs. What one buyer may love, another small business owner may find it impractical. When you're choosing a cargo van, you need to take many different factors into the equation, complicating your decision.

You'll need to account for costs, what you're going to be using the van for, and what features you want or need. Considering all these factors, here are three vans chosen from both categories you can always count on:

1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

This van is expensive but very well-designed and put together. If you're looking for an excellent large cargo van that also offers low gas mileage, exceptional resale value and reliability, the Sprinter is the vehicle for you.

2. Ford Transit

Though lacking the overall package of the Sprinter, this workhorse also offers a lower starting price, many more Ford dealerships for needed repairs, lots of cargo space and decent fuel mileage. It has lots of standing room in the cargo area and configurations that make a substantial payload possible.

Should You Buy a Van for Your Business?

Anyone who owns a business, particularly a small business, has probably wondered about the wisdom of buying a van. There are many questions — Which van should you buy? Do you buy a van based on cargo space or gas mileage? What about reliability? Most importantly, what about the cost? Can you afford it?

Buying a van can be a valuable and strategic addition to your business, but you need to ask yourself whether your company will benefit from owning one van or maybe more. Whether you have been in business for only a year or decades, it is always a good time to consider your organization's needs when it comes to purchasing a van.

Here are some questions you might want to consider:

• Do you use your vehicle to run business errands or to complete an on-site job? If you do, does it have enough room for everything you need?
• Does the lack of a reliable work van contribute to a general feeling of disorganization, either at your office or on a worksite?
• Do your employees complain about a lack of warehouse space to store the tools and materials they use day in and day out?
• Do your employees complain about having to return to the warehouse again and again to get a particular piece of equipment they need to complete a job?
• Have your employees overheard customers complaining your service doesn't look very professional because you don't own any vehicles explicitly designated as part of your business?
• Do you believe you need a van for your business, but you're worried it might be outside your budget at this moment?

These are all good questions, but let's cut to the chase. The foremost concern of a small business owner who has not bought a van is financial. However, getting a good work van will cost you less than purchasing a newer-model minivan. You can get a reliable van for between $30,000 and $45,000, depending on the size you need and where you will be using it. Also, as you can see from the figures above, companies have worked hard to improve gas mileage, and you can now choose from among several different models that get over 20 miles to the gallon.

When buying a van, other issues you should consider are towing capacity, cargo space, headroom, configuration and any specifications needed to benefit your business.

Buying a work van is a savvy idea for any business owner. Whether you are a caterer, florist or plumber, buying a van for your business offers a wide range of benefits.

Benefits of Vans for Small Businesses

Buying a van might be a tricky decision for a small business owner. It shouldn't be, however, because of the numerous benefits a van can offer and how it can bolster your business:

1. Commuting

If you work in a city or a community where the weather may be a concern, owning a van for your business can help your employees make it to work on time and lower the chances they will be absent because of these weather-related travel issues. That is especially the case in winter months when cars are particularly susceptible to cold, snow or slick roads.

Many vans can pull double duty as a work van and a passenger carrier. If you use a van to pick up employees and give them a ride to work, it becomes a bonus for them to work for your company. Carpooling doesn't just benefit your employees, but as a business, you won't have to worry about employees showing up late due to traffic or car-related issues.

2. Moving Material

If your business requires you to regularly move large quantities of materials, such as lumber, food, flowers, etc., owning a van will cut costs. You have less need to rent a vehicle to move the goods, and you can also look forward to significant time savings. That means you can access the materials you need when you need them and not be at the mercy of another company's schedule.

Every time you don't make a wasted trip or force your employees to travel back and forth to get the right quantity of materials, you save yourself money.

3. Advertising

When you apply your logo to the side of a van or apply a van wrap, you're assuring yourself of lots of free advertising. The more eye-catching you make these advertisements, the greater the benefit to your business.

Whether you live in a small community, town or city, logos or a van wrap could put the name of your business in front of many people each day. Imagine what it would cost you to achieve the same level of visibility by buying ads in your local newspaper or radio station or on Facebook.

4. Looking and Acting Professional

When your employees arrive at a customer’s home or business, showing up in a branded van leaves a memorable first impression. Think about how you'd react if someone drove up in a personal car and then took the materials they’re going to use to either fix your home or business out of the trunk. In many cases, you could find yourself thinking about using somebody else next time.

Vans also eliminate the problem of having to return to the warehouse to find the right part. With a newer, up-fitted van that takes advantage of the many different configurations possible in each model, your employees will never have to worry about telling a customer they will be back in a few minutes after they’ve gotten the part they need to finish the job.

5. Taxes

As a small business owner, if you purchase a van to use for your business, you may deduct it from your taxes. Usually, this means amortizing it over several years, so you get a little bit of a break every year. While tax breaks won't cover the entire cost of the new van, they could make a difference if you are right on the edge of wondering if you can afford to buy such a vehicle.

6. Resale Value

Many of the models we reviewed above have excellent resale values. These values can increase if you take proper care of the van, giving it regular maintenance and outfitting it with panels that prevent dents and scratches.

An older van in good condition is also a smart buy for any small business owner concerned about the impact on their bottom line. Buying a used van as your first vehicle will give you a chance to see how it can benefit your business, so the next time you want to purchase one, you might consider a newer model.

7. Traversing Urban Locations

If you work out of an urban area or travel to urban locations constantly, you can choose a van with a lower roof to enable you to enter parking garages or drive-thrus. Popular models with low roofs include the Ford Transit LR, Savana, Expressand Mercedes Metris.

Choosing a van with a short wheelbase will also make it easier to park. In urban locations where parking space is limited, this is a huge benefit. Some of the best vans with a shorter wheelbase include the Ford Transit 130-inch wheelbase, the ProMaster 118-inch wheelbase and the Savana and Express with a standard wheelbase.

Small Work Vans vs. Large Cargo Vans

Questions about size, potential passenger capacity and cargo space depend a great deal on the nature of your business. Here’s a look at some of the better smaller vans and some of the better large vans:

Smaller Vans

Smaller operations may benefit from vans like these:

1. 2022 Mercedes-Benz Metris

The Metris is a high-end van that offers several impressive specs, including:

• MSRP: From $34,900
• MPG: Up to 19 city/23 highway
• Dimensions: 202″ L x 76″ W x 75″ H
• Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds
• Payload: 2,150pounds
• Engine: 2.0 liter four-cylinder

Slightly larger than a minivan, the Metris offers you a choice of a rear door with either a tailgate or a pair of barn doors to access any cargo. Even when outfitted to haul passengers, the Metris passenger van still has 38 cubic feet of room to put luggage behind its last row. While getting good gas mileage, the Metris also can handle a larger payload.

2. 2022 RAM ProMaster City Van

This van is a reliable choice for businesses and boasts several considerable specs:

• MSRP: $27,000
• Gas mileage: 21 miles per gallon city/28 miles per gallon highway
• Cargo space: 137.1 cubic feet
• Max payload: 1,900 pounds

As a compact van with a great MPG, the ProMaster is an excellent van for fuel economy. It features a nine-speed automatic transmission that helps it obtain that great gas mileage. You can also outfit it with special features like GPS navigation, Bluetooth and internet connectivity, as well as a rear-view camera. What really sells the ProMaster City is the MSRP. With this van, you'll get a lot of bang for your buck.

3. 2022 Ford Transit Connect

As a smaller van, the Ford Transit is one of the better choices for businesses as a result of some of the following specifications:

• MSRP: From $25,175
• Dimensions: 174-190″ L x 84.1″ W x 72″ H
• Cargo volume: 123.2 to 145.8 cubic feet
• Payload: 1,510 pounds
• Seating capacity: Two, six or seven

While it is probably not the vehicle to choose if you want to transport passengers or employees, the Transit Connect has been popular in Europe for decades. The rear cargo doors provide 180 degrees of clearance.

As an owner, you can include features like Ford MyKey that allow you to preset audio volumes or van speeds. When a driver exceeds these preset values, an alarm will sound. The Transit Connect doesn't offer a lot of cargo space for a smaller van but provides the kind of fuel savings you can find in a regular car. It also has a high resale value.

Larger Cargo Vans

If the best work van for you would be something bigger, consider these larger options:

1. 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Here are the specs for these large cargo vans:

• MSRP: From $49,000
• Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): 9,050 to 12,125 pounds
• Warranty: Optional extended limited warranty of five years or 100,000 miles
• Seating capacity: Two to three
• Max towing rating: 5,000 pounds to 7,500 pounds
• Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder

1. 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Here are the specs for these large cargo vans:

• MSRP: From $49,000
• Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): 9,050 to 12,125 pounds
• Warranty: Optional extended limited warranty of five years or 100,000 miles
• Seating capacity: Two to three
• Max towing rating: 5,000 pounds to 7,500 pounds
• Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder

The Sprinter is the crème de la crème of larger vans. While the MSRP starts at $49,000, that may not get you much. You're more likely to pay way more by the time you're ready to drive it off the lot. This Sprinter van has a lot of room.

Mercedes once only offered diesel but now makes all models available with gas engines. It has a rated torque of 295 pound-feet at 1,400 to 2,400 revolutions per minute (rpm). You might pay more for a Mercedes Sprinter, but it is the most reliable cargo van, and it will spend far less time in the shop than other models might.

2. 2023 Ford Transit

Similar to its smaller counterpart, the Ford Transit is an ideal choice for specifications such as:

• MSRP: From $44,455
• Dimensions: Length of 220 to 264, width of 81 inches and height of 82 to 110 inches
• Cargo volume: 280.9 to 536.4 cubic feet
• Payload: 3,060 to 5,110 pounds

The Ford Transit, a true workhorse, is another van that started its life in Europe before crossing the Atlantic and rising to popularity in the United States. The 2023 Ford Transit is highly customizable to suit your specific needs. Even the smallest version can still fit many passengers. You can get it with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that has 275 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.

It also boasts impressive pickup, thanks to its Eco-Boost engine. It rides and handles much more like a minivan, which makes it a breeze to move around crowded spaces in urban areas.

3. 2023 RAM ProMaster

This large cargo van is a solid choice for business owners for many reasons, including these specs:

• Dimensions: Length of 195 to 251 inches and width of 80 inches
• MSRP: From $44,170
• Towing capacity: 6,910 pounds
• Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles basic, five years or 60,000 miles powertrain
• GVWR: 8,550 to 9,350 pounds

The ProMaster offers one unique option — it has front-wheel drive. It's a smart choice if you need to move a lot of people, especially during the winter. The front-wheel drive gives it an added advantage, with an extended 159-inch wheelbase and a taller roof. Compared to the Transit and the Sprinter, there'sless versatility. The ProMaster handles more like a commercial van and can be stiff when empty, but its front-wheel chassis keeps it low to ground level, so it's no problem to move passengers or cargo in and out.

2. 2023 Ford Transit

Similar to its smaller counterpart, the Ford Transit is an ideal choice for specifications such as:

• MSRP: From $44,455
• Dimensions: Length of 220 to 264, width of 81 inches and height of 82 to 110 inches
• Cargo volume: 280.9 to 536.4 cubic feet
• Payload: 3,060 to 5,110 pounds

The Ford Transit, a true workhorse, is another van that started its life in Europe before crossing the Atlantic and rising to popularity in the United States. The 2023 Ford Transit is highly customizable to suit your specific needs. Even the smallest version can still fit many passengers. You can get it with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that has 275 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.

It also boasts impressive pickup, thanks to its Eco-Boost engine. It rides and handles much more like a minivan, which makes it a breeze to move around crowded spaces in urban areas.

3. 2023 RAM ProMaster

This large cargo van is a solid choice for business owners for many reasons, including these specs:

• Dimensions: Length of 195 to 251 inches and width of 80 inches
• MSRP: From $44,170
• Towing capacity: 6,910 pounds
• Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles basic, five years or 60,000 miles powertrain
• GVWR: 8,550 to 9,350 pounds

The ProMaster offers one unique option — it has front-wheel drive. It's a smart choice if you need to move a lot of people, especially during the winter. The front-wheel drive gives it an added advantage, with an extended 159-inch wheelbase and a taller roof. Compared to the Transit and the Sprinter, there'sless versatility. The ProMaster handles more like a commercial van and can be stiff when empty, but its front-wheel chassis keeps it low to ground level, so it's no problem to move passengers or cargo in and out.

What Is the Average Lifespan and Reliability of Work Vans?

Having a reliable, long-lasting work van is what makes the investment worthwhile, and there are several things that will determine how long and durable your van will be. The average lifespan of a work van depends on several factors, including:

• Will you use it more in the city or in rural areas?
• How heavily loaded is it when it goes over curbs or bumps?
• Most importantly, will you commit to getting regular maintenance?

The key question is the maintenance one. A well-maintained van will normally cover 200,000 to 250,000 miles in a lifetime. When you think about it, it is like orbiting the Earth five or six times.

Reliability also depends on several factors, including the model, how you drive it and whether you have invested in paneling that protects it from scratches and dents. As we noted above, the Mercedes Sprinter is the highest-price van but spends less time in the shop than many other vans. The RAM ProMaster, on the other hand, has a history of reliability issues and mechanical problems that can sometimes undermine its cargo capacity and price.

Research is your best bet. You'll find lots of good articles on the internet from a variety of sources that will give you clues about lifespan and reliability for every van on our list.

What Industries Should Consider Buying a Cargo Van?

Almost every small business can benefit from the purchase of one of the top-rated cargo vans on this list, but there are several for whom a van is specifically ideal. For example, cargo vans for locksmiths help them serve the needs of customers all over town, while delivery vans for florists can help them brighten every recipient's day. Let's look at some other industries that benefit from having vans.

1. Plumbing

A well-outfitted van means a plumber will be able to get the job done faster and more reliably. You'll have all of your tools and equipment on hand, no matter the circumstance. That means more jobs done in a day and more positive word of mouth, all of which will improve the bottom line of your business. Whether you run an individual plumbing service or you operate a larger business, the best cargo vans for plumbers can have an enormous impact on your bottom line.

2. HVAC

Technicians who work on fixing or installing air conditioning and heating systems need a van that can carry the many parts required to replace worn-out or broken equipment, as well as larger pieces of equipment needed for installations. When you take time to outfit it appropriately to ensure everything is where it should be and there's a place for everything, the best work vans for HVAC can make your employees a star in their customers' eyes.

3. Delivery

Whether you're delivering flowers, cakes, balloons for a birthday party or auto parts needed for a body shop, choosing the right size van can make an enormous difference to your bottom line. A van will allow you to carry more goods and make more deliveries, thus saving time and money and making your clients happy.

A long wheelbase and a higher roof give you more room in the back for all of your deliveries. Some of the best models for this include the Sprinter's extended 170-inch wheelbase, the Transit's extended 148-inch wheelbase and the ProMaster's extended 159-inch wheelbase.

4. Electrical

Like a plumber, an electrician with a well-outfitted van – a van where they know where everything is and they can find it at a moment’s notice – means more jobs in a day and more satisfied customers. Properly outfitted work vans for electricians also save on the wear and tear of important tools and result in fewer lost parts.

5. Catering

No one wants to bring food to another person's house in their car. Even transporting food in a minivan lacks a professional look and often means the caterer must come and go several times to carry all the items needed. The right-size cargo van eliminates the many back-and-forth trips and makes your business and you look much more professional.

6. Painting and Drywall

A van will help you transport the materials you need, when you need them. An adequately outfitted van with racks on the tops and sides will help you transport as many ladders as you need to get the job done. A van with the appropriate cargo space means you can transport all the other materials you might need, such as drywall, paint and floor and furniture coverings.

Other industries that can benefit from having a van include:

• Construction
• Mobile showrooms
• Environmental protection
• Surveying
• Recreational
• Municipal/government

It's important to consider what your business needs when purchasing a van. Some vans can carry bigger materials than others. For example, a 6-inch step ladder will only fit in vans with high roofs. Consider what you'll store in your van and which model can accommodate your needs.

Also, take into consideration where you're traveling. If you travel long distances, you may go through toll roads or bridges. You may be charged an additional cost for vans over 8,600 GVWR. Vans like the Ford Transit and Mercedes Metris are popular because they fall under 8,600 GVWR.

Commercial vehicles over 10,000 GVWR must also have a USDOT number, which comes with additional restrictions and requirements. Some Transit and Sprinter models come to over 10,000 GVWR and would require additional care.

Some industries will need a smaller van with a smaller wheelbase, while others will need more space to store their materials. Look at the specifications for each van and determine what you're looking for before making a final decision.

Some of the most popular vans for tradespeople include the Transit mid-engined, rear-wheel 148-inch wheelbase, the Sprinter high roof 144-inch wheelbase and the ProMaster high roof 159-inch wheelbase. These vans would be a good place to start conducting your research.

Customization Options for Work Vans

Arguably, the most essential feature of a work van is the ability to upfit it for the intended purpose. Depending on the nature of your work and needs, you can customize the van for added functionality, safety and comfort. Let's consider the options available for each of the vans discussed above:

1. 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van

Depending on your usual operations, you can upfit a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with accessories like steel and aluminum shelving units, insulated roof liners, wall liners, LED lighting strips, ladder racks, partitions and composite flooring solutions. Many interior Sprinter accessories focus on productivity and convenience. Upfitting can also save money and protect your vehicle from damage.

For example, installing shelvings and partitions allows you to organize your equipment, making locating them easy. They can also reduce falling items — and when drops do occur, quality composite flooring and wall liners prevent direct impacts. Outfitting your Sprinter is a smart way to use and safeguard your investment.

2. 2023 Mercedes Metris Van

Besides being reliable on the road, the Mercedes Metris cargo van is built for contractors in diverse fields. The interior is ideal for accessories like liners, partitions and anti-slip flooring, but the exterior is valuable, too. You can install cargo racks, rear door access ladders and roof decks to use the extra space outside your vehicle. An experienced outfitter can re-design your van to maximize storage space without compromising safety.

3. 2023 RAM ProMaster Van

The RAM ProMaster is an enormous and powerful vehicle suitable for most businesses. There are many customizable options available, but let's consider the most popular ones today:

• Partitions: You can choose aluminum partitions and composites for both low and high ProMaster roofs. Partitions help organize your equipment, improve driver safety, reduce noise and maximize flooring space.
• Grab handles: These can improve accessibility, allowing workers to get in and out of the vehicle easily.
• Handwashing stations: The upfit helps your employees keep their hands clean. It provides soap, water, garbage and paper, and is excellent for the catering and painting industry.
• Drawers and paper holders: These are excellent organizational tools. They come in different sizes, shapes and materials, like steel and aluminum.

4. 2023 Ford Transit Van

The Ford Transit's design makes customization practical. The vehicle is designed for heavy-duty work and can travel long distances without trouble. When hauling large loads, it would be best to install robust shelving units to carry your tools.

Considering you may sometimes travel long hours for work, you can also insulate the van and add heating and cooling systems to the rear to enhance comfort. This is especially true if you're carrying extra workers at the back. Also, if you need to move large equipment like HVACs and generators, you can install liftgates and ramps for easy access.

5. 2023 Ford Transit Connect Van

The Ford Transit Connect is a dependable compact van, but installing the right upfits allows you to harness its full potential. With an impressive cargo space on the interior, you can install drawers, shelves and partitions to keep your equipment safe and secure. For example, mesh and contoured steel partitions protect drivers and passengers from knocks. Simple or hydraulic ladder storage systems allow you to keep your gear up and out of the way.

6. 2023 Chevrolet Express and 2024 GMC Savana

The Express and Savana are well-known in the U.S. They are strong and attract relatively low maintenance costs, but you can explore other hidden benefits with upfits. Like the other vans, you can customize your vehicle by adding partitions, shelving packages and roofing equipment, depending on your needs. You can also install accessories such as interior lighting and power inverters, which can be especially helpful when you work late.

Let Advantage Outfitters, LLC Help You Select the Best Van Equipment for Your Business Needs

The best cargo van for your small business is a personal choice. It also depends upon the industry in which you work. The right van for an HVAC technician might not work as well for a plumber or a delivery person. The same is true for cargo van equipment. At Advantage Outfitters, we can help you compare work vans, determine which one may be right for you and get it equipped with all the organizers you need.

Contact Us

We offer shelving packages suited to each van type so you get the perfect fit each time. Customize your packages based on your individual needs and your business type so everything is easily accessible and available when and where you need it.

Contact us if you have questions on the best van or equipment for your business needs. You can call us at 866-925-4844, browse our inventory online to order today or subscribe to our email list for exclusive offers.