- Picking the right cargo van can make a business more efficient.
- There are lots of options for every type of business and budget.
- Many popular compact cargo vans are no longer being built in the US.
- Both used and new cargo vans have distinct advantages.
As a small business owner, have you ever looked around at all your gear and wondered how much time you’re wasting packing and unpacking for each job? It could be time to upgrade to a cargo van.
A cargo van is much more than a way to get around town. For many business owners and entrepreneurs, it’s a mobile workshop, office, storage unit, and advertising billboard all rolled into one.
But picking the right commercial van for your small business can be a tough choice. You’ll have questions like:
- What cargo capacity do I need?
- How is the fuel economy?
- How easy is it to get in and out of the cargo area?
- How high is the roof?
In this article, we’ll look at how the decline of small cargo vans in the US is changing the market, why a cargo van is still a good bet, and the best options on the market in late 2024 and early 2025.
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The vanishing compact van: Big changes in the market
The work van market has changed dramatically since 2023. Several major brands have stopped making their compact cargo vans altogether for a variety of reasons. As a result, many of the most popular models have declining inventories, and it seems like they’re vanishing from dealerships overnight. I’m talking about favourites like:
- The Ford Transit Connect
- The Mercedes-Benz Metris
- The RAM ProMaster City from Dodge
- The Nissan NV200
- The Chevrolet City Express
This reality has forced many business owners to reassess and rethink their future plans.
Why a work van is your business's best friend
You probably already know why a cargo van makes sense for navigating city streets. But here's why these vans are perfectly suited for many small business needs:
- Think of it as a workshop on wheels. Today's cargo vans come with adjustable shelves and locked compartments that keep your tools and supplies organized and safe.
- They’re economical to own. Cargo vans hit the sweet spot between size and cost. They use less fuel and cost less to maintain than bigger trucks, their durability and functionality is great, and they offer everything a small business owner needs in a vehicle.
- They're rolling billboards. Every time you park, you're advertising your business. A professional-looking cargo van tells potential customers you're serious about your work in a way a regular vehicle can't match.
- They're the right size for just about everything. Cargo vans are big enough to carry what you need, but small enough to park in the city. Whether you're making deliveries or heading to service calls, they just work.
- Your office goes where you go. With power outlets and work areas built in, you can handle paperwork and other tasks between jobs instead of driving back to your home base.
How to pick your perfect van
It comes down to what your business does and how you'll use your cargo van. Each brand has its advantages and disadvantages; your job is to match your needs with the right vehicle.
Here's what you should know about some of the best van models on the market today:
1. The Ford Transit: The do-it-all van
The Ford Transit cargo van is the Swiss Army knife of work vans — it can handle just about anything you throw at it. Whether you're working solo or running a fleet, the great gas mileage and maneuverability these vans offer means there's probably a Transit out there that fits your needs.
There are several configurations and sizes available:
- Three roof heights (low, medium, high roof)
- Two wheelbase lengths
- Long, regular and extended body lengths
- The Ford Transit is also configurable as a passenger van
Some of the key specs you’ll want to consider:
- Carry up to 4,650 lbs
- Tow up to 6,800 lbs
- Up to 487 cubic feet of cargo space
- Available with all-wheel drive
- Plenty of tie-down points
- Optional crew cabin setup
- Rear and side door configurations are available
- Optional active parking assist for tight urban parking spaces
The new Ford Transit vans also feature a comfortable driver area with safety features like front and side airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system.
The Ford Transit cargo van is one of the smallest compact vans that you can get today. That makes it a perfect choice for small, local runs where you want to get in and out quickly and don’t need powerful engine options to navigate long distances.
2. Chevrolet Express: The reliable American work van
When it comes to mid-size cargo vans, you’re going to want to be looking at vehicles like the GMC Savana, Ford E350 or the Chevy Express. The Express has earned its spot as a trusted name in work vans by keeping things simple and dependable.
While newer cargo vans might look fancier and offer more configurations, the Express wins over business owners with its solid build and easy-to-find parts. It's perfect for companies that need a tough, no-nonsense van that can handle heavy-duty jobs without costing too much.
Size and space:
- Fits up to 284 cubic feet of cargo
- Carries up to 4,280 lbs
- Choose from two lengths: a standard 135-inch wheelbase and an extended 155-inch wheelbase.
Key features:
- Choice of V6 or V8 engines
- Built tough
- Strong frame design
Business benefits:
- Costs less up front
- Easy to find service
- Parts are everywhere
- Proven to last
If you’re in the business of delivering express cargo, then a mid-size van probably offers the best compromise between size, speed and flexibility.
3. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: a high-end hauler
The Mercedes Sprinter sits at the pinnacle of the cargo van market, offering both greater capacity and increased horsepower, as well as the branding gloss of Mercedes to make your business look more professional. The front-wheel drive gives the vehicle excellent traction on the road and ultimately makes it more fuel-efficient.
Despite the fact that it costs more upfront, the Sprinter van's capacity, resilience and excellent resale value often make it worth the investment.
It's perfect for businesses where you are looking to get bigger, more professional contracts that require longer distance hauls in order to get the job done.
Size and power:
- Up to 319 cubic feet for cargo
- Carries up to 6,636 lbs
- Three lengths to choose from
- Towing capacity is 7,500 lbs with a diesel engine
Special features:
- Optional 4x4 system
- Mercedes PRO fleet tracking
- Advanced safety technology
Business perks:
- Premium brand name
- Holds its value well
- Less frequent service needed
Used vans = hidden deals, and occasional pitfalls
In today's market, used minivans can be the smarter choice if you're watching your budget. And considering that there are no new compact vans being manufactured, the used van market is only going to get more and more competitive.
The good news is that there is no need to buy new from a dealership. Yes, new vans come with warranties and the latest hi-tech features, but the used ones can almost always do the same job for less money.
If you know what to look for, you can find reliable second-hand vans that'll work hard for years to come.
The 2012-2019 Nissan NV series is a great example:
- Costs from $15,000 to $30,000
- Built on tough truck parts
- Carries heavy loads
- Simpler mechanics
- Cheaper insurance
Be aware that the Nissan NV:
- Uses more gas
- Has fewer safety features
- Parts can be hard to find
There are many used cargo vans on the market, more than we can explore in this article. If you’re looking for a good used van, check out this great piece on the best used cargo vans.
What do YOU need from a van?
Every industry has its non-negotiables when it comes to the best work vans. Understanding what is most important in your field helps you avoid buying the wrong van.
Here's a quick guide to what different sectors of the economy typically look for in a van:
Delivery services
- Good fuel efficiency
- Easy to get in and out
- Multiple doors for easy access
- Temperature control
- Easy to park
Trades (electricians, HVAC, plumbers)
- High payload capacity
- Organized storage
- Power for tools
- Good lighting
- Weather protection
Mobile services (detailing, pet groomers, etc)
- Water tank space
- Generator hookups
- Climate control
- Easy customer access
- Professional look
Going electric
Electric vans aren't just good for the environment. They're starting to make solid business sense as commercial vehicles. With better technology, lower costs, and more pressure to go green, electric cargo vans may already be the best long-term solution.
The Ford E-Transit gives you a good sense of where things are heading in the EV market:
- Drives up to 159 miles per charge
- Less maintenance
- Zero emissions
- Zero gas wasted idling. This could save hundreds of dollars a year per vehicle.
Business benefits:
- Eco-friendly branding opportunities
- Progressive tax breaks
- Reduced costs over time
Money matters
Purchasing a cargo van is one of the most significant investments many small businesses undertake. Making an informed decision about payment options, tax advantages, and long-term expenses can transform this major expense into a strategic move that benefits your business.
Here are some things to consider:
Tax benefits
Businesses may be able to save money in several ways:
- Write off up to 100% of lease payments
- Take advantage of first-year depreciation
- Lower your taxable income
Talk to your accountant to find out how your business can make the most of the tax benefits on offer.
Financing
When it comes to financing, small business owners have several options to choose from.
Business vehicle loans and fleet financing are popular methods that provide flexibility and structure for larger purchases.
Deciding between leasing and buying can make a big difference depending on your budget and long-term goals, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully.
The bottom line
Selecting the right cargo van isn't about having the newest model. It's about finding the perfect tool that helps your business run better, look more professional, and make more money.
Look for a vehicle that you can upfit as your business needs grow and change. Upfitting means adding features like shelving racks, cooling units, suspension changes, video cameras — whatever suits your needs and can be added on to your existing cargo van.
Times are changing. Fewer new cargo vans are being produced and the promise of electric vans is becoming a reality. There are great options out there and great deals that will transform your business. What’s your next move?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are electric cargo vans worth considering for small businesses?
Electric vans make sense if your daily routes do not exceed 150 miles and you can charge overnight. While they cost more upfront, you'll start saving on fuel and maintenance immediately. Plus, many cities offer perks like special parking and tax incentives for electric vehicles. They work especially well for businesses in urban areas with predictable daily routes. Just make sure you have reliable charging options before making the switch.
How do I know what size cargo van I need?
Look at three things: what you carry, where you drive, and how you work. Measure your largest equipment and daily load, then add 20% for growth. Consider if you need to stand up inside (high roof) or park in garages (low roof). For city work, compact vans might work better, while highway service calls might need a full-size van. The best way is to rent different sizes for a few days each to test them with your actual work.
What's better for a new business — a new or used cargo van?
It depends on your budget and needs. New vans come with warranties and the latest features, but cost more upfront. Used vans can save you money and still deliver great service if you choose carefully. Look at your cash flow and monthly revenue before deciding - many successful businesses start with a quality used van and upgrade later as they grow.
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