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Guide

Van And Pickup Truck Leasing FAQs

To make the van and pickup truck leasing process even more hassle-free than it already is, we've put together an extensive list of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about leasing that we get asked.

Tom Roberts

Words by: Tom Roberts

Published on 13 February 2024 | 0 min read

To make the van and pickup truck leasing process even more hassle-free than it already is, we've put together an extensive list of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about leasing that we get asked.

Before You Lease

Can I View Or Test Drive the Vehicle?

We can’t arrange for you to physically view a vehicle before starting the leasing process. However, we have a large collection of online reviews and images to help you get a good understanding of the vehicle you might want to lease.

Can New Drivers Lease A Van Or Pickup Truck?

Yes, new drivers can lease a van or pickup truck, but they must possess a full UK driving licence.

Are All Vehicles Brand New?

Yes, all the vehicles available to lease from us are brand-new UK-registered vehicles.

Am I Eligible For A Van Lease?

Eligibility for a van lease depends on various factors including whether you’re looking to lease a van or pickup truck as a personal or business vehicle. In all cases, a credit check is necessary before you can lease a vehicle.

Lease Contracts

How Long Does A Van Or Pickup Truck Lease Last?

The leasing contract lengths we typically arrange for our customers range from 2 to 5 years long.

Can I Upgrade My Vehicle Early?

Yes, it is possible to upgrade your vehicle early. However, you will need to settle your existing agreement. Feel free to contact us for more information on upgrading your vehicle early.

My Lease Contract Is Ending Soon - What Should I Do?

Our team will contact you a few months before your contract ends to discuss your options. If you prefer to contact us earlier, we are here to assist you with what to do if your agreement is ending soon.

Who Is the Van Or Pickup Truck Registered To?

This depends on the type of finance product you choose for leasing. With Contract Hire agreements, the vehicle remains the property of the Funder and will be registered to them – although you get to use the vehicle however you like. With Finance Lease agreements, you do not own the vehicle, but any equity in the vehicle at contract end is yours because you sell the vehicle privately at the end to pay off a final balloon payment.

What Kind Of Insurance Do I Need On My Lease Vehicle?

You must have fully comprehensive insurance on your vehicle for the entire lease contract because it is part of the agreement made with the finance company to keep the vehicle fully insured.

Can I End My Contract Early?

Yes, you have the option to end your contract early, and we can provide you with a settlement/termination figure from the finance company upon request.

Vehicle Mileage

Does My Estimated Mileage Have An Effect On My Van Lease Contract?

Yes, your estimated mileage is used to calculate your monthly rentals based on how much your vehicle will be worth at the lease contract's end (also known as ‘residual value’).

Is There a Limit To The Maximum Mileage I Can Drive In A Year?

Most finance companies will set the maximum mileage allowance on a lease at around 50,000 miles per annum. Generally, our funders do not permit returning a vehicle at the end of a completed lease agreement with more than 180,000 miles on the clock.

What Happens If I Exceed My Agreed Mileage?

Firstly, it is advisable to err on the side of caution and overestimate your mileage. If you exceed your mileage, you will be charged a flat-rate pence-per-mile amount based on the number of miles you exceeded your lease agreement by. If you find you are exceeding your mileage limit during your lease, please notify us - for Contract Hire lease agreements, we can provide you with a mileage adjustment quote.

Finance Options And Information

Will I Have to Pass a Credit Check To Lease A Van?

Yes, you will need to be approved for finance by one of our finance partners when leasing a van – this will be done through a credit check. We work with the top five finance companies in the UK and will work hard to match you with the most suitable lender.

When Do I Need To Pay My Initial Rental/Deposit?

The first payment you will make for your lease vehicle is called an ‘initial rental’. It will be collected from your bank account via direct debit 7 to 10 days after your new vehicle is delivered.

Do You Accept Smaller Initial Rentals And/Or Vehicle Part-Exchanges?

The size of your initial rental will affect your monthly rentals – typically, the more you put down, the lower your monthly rentals will be. Vehicle part-exchanges are not something we can offer at this time.

When Will My Monthly Rentals/Payments Start?

Your monthly rentals will be taken each month after you make your initial rental payment.

Who Do I Pay My Arranged Monthly Rentals To?

Your monthly rentals are paid directly to the finance company. We act as a broker, not a lender.

Can I Change My Bank Details?

Yes, you can update your bank details directly with the funder, unless there has been a change in your company type or legal status (e.g., transitioning from a sole trader to a limited company). If this happens, please contact us and we can help you make the changes with your funder.

Delivery

How Quickly Can I Get My Vehicle?

Any vehicles we have in stock can be delivered in as little as 14-21 days. If you require a vehicle more urgently, let us know, and we will make every effort to speed up the process. If the specific vehicle you want is not in stock, we will give you an estimated lead time.

Where Does My Leased Vehicle Come From?

Your leased vehicles will come from one of our dealer partners across the UK who look after the vehicles listed as available to lease on our website.

How Will My Van Or Pickup Truck Be Delivered?

Your vehicle will be delivered to your preferred location anywhere in mainland UK at no additional cost. In most cases, vehicles are delivered by road and will have some delivery mileage, which will not count toward your contracted mileage.

What Happens If I'm Not Happy With My Vehicle When It Arrives?

If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of your vehicle, please note it on the delivery notice you will be given when signing for the vehicle and inform us as soon as you can. We are committed to resolving any issues to your satisfaction.

Vehicle Customisation

Can I Put My Private Plate On My Van?

Yes, it is possible to transfer your private plate to a leased vehicle. To do this, you will need to provide the relevant documentation to your funder - we can guide you through how to do this.

Can I Sign Write the Vehicle?

Sign writing your commercial vehicle is an excellent way to promote your business. We recommend using vinyl graphics for easier removal. If your vehicle is on a contract hire agreement, it's important to remove the sign writing before returning the vehicle to avoid potential charges.

Do Any of Your Vehicles Come Fitted With A Tow Bar, Or Can One Be Fitted?

Our vans do not come equipped with tow bars as a standard feature. However, you can arrange to have a tow bar fitted before delivery. The cost of the tow bar can be included in your lease contract or paid for separately.

Vehicle Maintenance

Are All Mechanical Faults And Services Included In the Monthly Leasing Rentals?

All vehicles we lease are new and come with a standard manufacturer's warranty, typically ranging from 3 to 5 years. Most of our lease agreements will offer you the option to include a maintenance package for an additional monthly fee, covering items like replacement tyres, routine maintenance, servicing, and MOTs (if required).

What Happens If My Vehicle Develops A Fault Or Breaks Down?

Manufacturer warranties, which usually last for 3-5 years from the vehicle’s registration, cover major mechanical components but exclude standard wear and tear items such as brake pads. Many manufacturers also provide 12 months of standard breakdown cover (details can often be found in the vehicle's book pack – check the glovebox or behind the passenger seat). In case of a breakdown or major fault, notify your insurance company and provide the name of your finance company so they can make the necessary arrangements.

Do I Need To Get the Vehicle Serviced?

Yes, it is essential to service the vehicle in line with the manufacturer's recommended schedule, typically once a year or once a mileage limit has been reached. Check your service book for specific service intervals. For Contract Hire agreements that include a maintenance package, you should book your service through the lease company's booking number – this will be provided to you at the start of your lease.

Do I Have To Service the Vehicle At A Main Dealer?

There is no need to use a main dealer for servicing, providing that the garage you do use is VAT registered and uses genuine parts.

What If There Is Damage To My Vehicle?

If your vehicle is damaged, contact your insurance company to arrange for repairs or use an authorised repairer. Keep in mind that not repairing damage can affect the vehicle's value at the end of the lease, potentially leading to damage charges.

VAT, Tax And Insurance

Are The Monthly Rentals Inclusive Of VAT?

The monthly rentals for business vans quoted on our website will typically exclude VAT and personal van lease prices will be quoted including VAT.

Do I Have To Be VAT Registered To Lease A Van For My Business?

VAT registration is not a requirement for leasing any vehicle for a business or personally.

My Business Is VAT Registered. How Do I Claim The VAT On My Rentals Back?

With VAT registration, you can claim up to 100% of your VAT back when completing your VAT return. Consult your accountant or financial advisor for assistance with this process.

How Do I Get the Vehicle Taxed Every Year?

VED Tax, usually referred to as ‘Road Tax’, is already included in your monthly payments on business and personal leases. You can check the tax status of your vehicle at www.vehicleenquiry.service.gov.uk.

Do The Lease Rentals Include Insurance?

Lease contracts do not include insurance. You will need to arrange fully comprehensive vehicle insurance separately.

General FAQs

What Happens If I Need to Cancel My Order?

We understand that circumstances can change, this is why we offer a no-quibble refund within 30 days after delivery.

What Happens If I Can't Afford My Monthly Payments Anymore?

It's important to reach out to us as soon as possible if you find yourself unable to afford your monthly payments. Please do not ignore the issue. We can work with you and the leasing company to find a suitable solution.

What If I Receive A Parking Ticket Or Speeding Fine?

Any parking ticket or speeding fine will be sent to you by the finance company.

Can I Take My Vehicle Abroad?

Leased vehicles can be driven abroad - contact your finance company and request a VE103B form, which allows for international travel.
For more detailed information and assistance, explore our van leasing explained hub or check out our latest van leasing deals.

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