The Real Cost of Running a Van Business in 2025

Jan de Vries · 2026-10-05

Running a van-based business isn't cheap. But it's still one of the most essential tools for thousands of companies across the country. For tradespeople, delivery drivers, construction crews, and mobile service pros, that van is more than just a vehicle — it's your livelihood on wheels. But keeping it on the road? That's where things get tricky. Fuel, maintenance, repairs, insurance — they all chip away at your margins. And if you're not careful, those costs can creep up faster than you expect. So let's talk about what it really takes to keep a commercial van running in 2025. And more importantly, how you can manage those costs without pulling your hair out. ### Commercial Vans Are Still the Backbone of the Economy Despite economic pressures, demand for commercial vehicles remains strong. According to the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), over 32,000 new light commercial vehicles were registered in 2025 — that's a 7% jump from the year before. That's a lot of vans. And it makes sense. From construction to logistics to retail, these vehicles keep things moving. They let your team travel between jobs, haul equipment, and get more done in a day. Without them, a lot of businesses would grind to a halt. ### Fuel Is Still the Biggest Bite Fuel is the most obvious cost — and often the most painful. If you're running a van all day, every day, the miles add up fast. Think about it: a tradesperson driving between multiple jobs or a delivery driver making dozens of stops can easily rack up hundreds of miles a week. That's a lot of gas. Recent estimates put the annual cost of operating a medium-sized commercial van in the U.S. at around $6,000 to $10,000 — and that's before you factor in financing or depreciation. But here's the thing: you can't control gas prices. What you can control is how you use your van. Better route planning, combining jobs when possible, and keeping an eye on fuel consumption can all help trim the fat. ### Don't Forget Insurance and Maintenance Fuel is just one piece of the puzzle. You've also got to think about: - Regular servicing - Tyres and brakes - Repairs and replacement parts - CVRT testing - Motor tax - Insurance It adds up. But planning for maintenance can save you from surprise bills down the road. Stay on top of scheduled servicing and fix small issues before they become big ones. Your wallet will thank you. ### Technology Can Help You Save Technology is making it easier than ever to manage vehicle costs. GPS route planning and fleet management software can cut down on unnecessary mileage. Digital scheduling tools can help you organise jobs and reduce downtime. Other handy tools include: - Fuel consumption monitors - Mobile invoicing apps - Digital job management systems - Cloud-based accounting platforms - Vehicle maintenance trackers Even small improvements in how you plan routes and schedule work can add up over a year. It's not about huge changes — it's about smart ones. ### What About Electric Vans? Electric vans are getting more attention these days. Yes, the upfront cost can be higher. But lower running and maintenance costs might make them worth considering — especially if your driving patterns are predictable. The CSO Road Freight Transport Survey reported steady freight activity in 2025, which shows just how important efficient transport is to the economy. If you're thinking long-term, an electric van could be a smart move. > "The cheapest mile is the one you don't drive." — Unknown fleet manager ### The Bottom Line Running a van-based business isn't getting any cheaper. But with a bit of planning and the right tools, you can keep costs under control. Focus on what you can control: routes, maintenance, and technology. And don't be afraid to explore new options like electric vans if they fit your business. At the end of the day, your van is an investment. Treat it like one, and it'll pay you back.