The motor trade is seeing a record number of vans coming to auction but poor condition and pricing continues to be a problem. According to Manheim used van volumes were up 38% in June compared to the previous month but damaged and duplicate stock were hitting conversion rates.
Matthew Davock, head of LCV at Manheim, said: “June’s record month-on-month sold volume spike proves the market is still in rude health, but duplicate stock and damage are the issues impacting conversion rates.
“We are still seeing a two-tier LCV market, made up of ex-daily rental stock with an average age of 3-4 years, and an older extended stock profile with an average age of 8-9 years.”
James Davis, director of commercial vehicles at Manheim, said: “Overall vehicle condition remains critical in the used van market. “With increasing volume in the marketplace, buyers have the luxury of being able to pick and choose their stock and they are buying on condition.
“Damaged vehicles do not pose a problem if the reserve price has been adjusted accordingly, but buyers are quite understandably not attracted to tatty or poorly maintained vans, they demand provenance, timely informed decisions and professional engagement by both vendor and auction house.”
