How van valuations work

By Jack Edwards · Updated 14 November 2026

Short answer

A van valuation starts with the registration and is shaped by what you tell us about the van: its mileage, its type, its condition and the paperwork you hold. Have those details ready and the valuation will be for the van you actually have.

What's your van worth as it is?

What the registration tells us

Your registration identifies the van, so you do not have to type in the make, model and age yourself. If the registration is not recognised, you can carry on and describe the van in your own words.

The details that shape the valuation

  • Mileage. Give the current reading from the dashboard.
  • Van type. Choose the body type, such as panel van, tipper or Luton.
  • Condition. Say how the van is today, including whether it starts and drives.
  • MOT and recent repairs. A current MOT and a recent repair are both useful details to include.
  • Paperwork. Tell us whether you have the V5C logbook. If you do not, photo ID is enough.
  • Finance. Say if the van is still on HP or PCP.

Faults and damage

Tell us about known faults and include photos of any damage. You do not need to guess at a diagnosis or replace a part just to enquire. We value vans in any condition, including non-runners, vans with mechanical problems, crash damage, Cat S and Cat N write-offs, vans with no MOT and vans with high miles.

If the van is on finance

A valuation and a lender settlement figure answer different questions. Ask your lender for the settlement figure as well, so you can see both numbers side by side. Our guide to selling a van on finance explains what happens to the settlement.

What happens after you ask

The team prepares your valuation and calls you. You then discuss the price and a collection time. Collection is free from home, work or a garage, and payment takes place on collection day, before the van is loaded. The valuation is free, and if you sell to us there are no admin charges.

Getting the most for your van

  • Describe the van accurately. The valuation is based on the mileage and condition you give.
  • Mention a current MOT and any recent repair.
  • Send clear photos of any damage.
  • Ask before you pay for repairs. You can get a valuation for the van as it is, then compare it with the garage quote.
  • Compare offers on the same basis. Use the same mileage, condition and paperwork each time you ask for a valuation elsewhere.

Questions

Is the valuation free?

Yes. You can request a valuation without a fee. If you sell to us, there are no admin charges and collection is free.

Do I need to repair the van first?

No. You can ask for a valuation before booking repairs. Describe the fault and include photos.

Can I get a valuation for a van that does not run?

Yes. Tell us that it is a non-runner and whether it can roll. We collect non-runners free from home, work or a garage.

What if the van is on finance?

Tell us when you enquire. Get the settlement figure from your lender as well, because the valuation and the settlement are separate figures.

Jack EdwardsWritten for vandervan. Updated 14 November 2026.

Ready to sell your van?