Step vans which are also called walk-in delivery trucks, refer to the panel trucks that depending on the model can be driven with the driver standing or sitting. These vehicles were used to deliver food, particularly milk and bakery products in the early 20th century. Today, step vans are commonly used in the construction trades such as plumbing or heat and air contractors, auto repair, and law enforcement.
The step van became popular as a food truck because of certain attributes that made it attractive not only to food catering companies but to other industries as well. Those attributes include:
- Appealing look
- Spacious
- Allows food servers to reach customers from the window
- The ability to travel to festivals, tours, and events
The term step van was coined because it allows the driver to step up easily on the low van steps that were built under its doors. Some models allow the driver to stand up-right inside even when the truck is moving. Since its inception, the step van has become a standard for delivery trucks. Its design became so popular in the delivery business it prompted other lines of business such as courier companies, delivery service providers, and contractors to adopt the step van.
Using a step van to deliver merchandise, equipment or manpower can be a plus factor for your business. But if buying a new truck is too costly for you, you may opt for a used, more affordable unit. Here are a few things you need to consider when buying a used step van:
1. Your Budget
The price of used step vans vary depending on the brand, model, and size. Your choice can certainly have an influence on your budget. To be able to find the right prices, you can utilize the internet to search for dealers and compare prices of the model/brand you have in mind. You might also speak to a sales representative at a used step van dealer for answers to things you want to clarify, like engine model, your prospective truck’s maintenance history, and the seller’s financing options.
2. Your Financing Options
Before you even begin to select a truck, you must first understand your financing options and get pre approved by a lender. Performing your research and getting all of your financial information organized beforehand will help speed up the purchase process. When buying a used Freightliner MT45 step van for example, make sure that you find a lender that is familiar with commercial vehicles, your local bank may not be willing to finance a commercial vehicle.
3. Gas vs Diesel
Before choosing a particular unit, one of the first things you need to consider is whether gas or diesel will be the best option for your business. Be sure to ask your dealer for input about price differences, fuel consumption/cost, and efficiency. This will help form your decision to choose a particular brand/unit.
4. Delivery Timeline
Delivery time differs from one used step van dealer to another, but it can also depend on the distance between you and the dealer’s location. When buying a used step van, be sure to find a dealer that can provide you with appropriate information about delivery options.
Buying a used delivery truck can be challenging but you can make it easier by identifying a used truck dealer you can rely on. Do your homework before making up your mind where to go in order to achieve your objectives.
The team at Truck-N-Trailer can help you find the perfect vehicle for you and your business! We’re one of the most trusted dealers of new and used trucks in Continental United States.
Call us at (405) 334-4959 for all of your trucking needs!
