Buying a Mobile Workshop Van: New vs. Used
If you're looking at mobile workshop vans for sale, you're probably starting a mobile repair business, or buying a workshop van for your own operation. A mobile workshop van is a big investment — a new fully-equipped one can cost $50,000 to $150,000 or more — so you want to make sure you're buying the right van, at the right price. Here's what you need to know.
New vs. Used: The Big Decision
Buy New If: You're starting a new operation, you need a warranty, you want the latest technology, or you need a custom configuration. New mobile workshop vans come with factory support, and you can have them built exactly the way you want. But they're expensive, and you lose 20-30% the second you take delivery.
Buy Used If: You're on a tight budget, you have experience with vehicle maintenance, or you just need a workshop that works. Used mobile workshop vans can be 40-60% cheaper than new. But you have to do your homework. Bring a mechanic with you to inspect any used van before you buy.
What to Look For When Buying a Used Mobile Workshop Van
When you're looking at a used mobile workshop van, check these things:
- Van chassis: How many miles on the van? The engine and transmission are expensive to rebuild. Check the service records, to see if it's been maintained properly.
- The workshop setup: What tools and equipment are included? Are they in good condition? Do they work? The tools and equipment are the expensive part, not the van itself.
- The generator: Does the on-board generator work? How many hours on it? The generator is essential — it's what powers all your tools when you're out in the field.
- The electrical system: Does the electrical system work? Are the outlets and lights in good condition?
- The shelving and storage: Is the shelving and storage in good condition? Is it organized the way you need it?
- Rust and body condition: Is the van rusty? Are there dents or damage? Vans take a lot of abuse, especially work vans.
- Maintenance records: Has the van been maintained properly? Can you see the records?
What Size Van Do You Need?
What size workshop van do you need? It depends on what kind of work you'll be doing:
- Small vans (Cargo van size): These are smaller vans, for light work — electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other service trades. They're cheaper to buy and operate, but you can't fit a lot of tools and equipment.
- Medium vans (Extended cargo van or small box truck): This is the sweet spot. You can fit all the tools and equipment you need for most repair work, and the van is still manageable to drive. This is what most mobile repair businesses start with.
- Big vans (Full-size box truck): These are big box trucks, for heavy-duty work — machine shop, welding, heavy equipment repair. You can fit all kinds of tools and equipment in them, but they're more expensive, and harder to drive and park.
Don't buy a van that's bigger than you need. If you're just doing light service work, a small van is enough. You can always upgrade later. But also don't buy a van that's too small — you'll regret it when you can't fit all your tools and equipment.
FAQ
Q: How much does a used mobile workshop van cost?
A: A used mobile workshop van that's 5-10 years old costs $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the condition and the equipment. A van that's 10-15 years old costs $10,000 to $30,000. Very old vans (15+ years) can be had for $5,000 to $15,000, but they may need a lot of work.