Request pick up
Request to pick up your order from Van Pro Inc.
Should You Buy or Lease Your Work Van? Pros & Cons for Contractors
For contractors, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC professionals, your van is the foundation of your business. When it’s time for a new one, a common question arises:
Should you buy or lease your work van?
Each option offers different financial and practical benefits. Here’s how to choose what’s best for your business — and how upfitting fits into both scenarios.
🚐 Buying Your Van
✅ Pros
1. Full Ownership
When you buy, the van is yours — no mileage limits or return conditions.
2. Unlimited Customization
Owning gives you total freedom to install shelving, partitions, racks, or decals as you like.
3. Long-Term Value
Your van becomes a business asset that can be resold or traded in later. Once paid off, it’s all profit.
❌ Cons
1. Higher Upfront Cost
Buying requires a larger investment or financing plan.
2. Depreciation
Vehicles lose value over time, typically 40–50% over five years.
3. Ongoing Maintenance
You’re responsible for all upkeep once the warranty ends.
🚛 Leasing Your Van
✅ Pros
1. Lower Monthly Payments
Leasing offers lower payments, helping manage cash flow and keeping capital available for tools or growth.
2. Access to Newer Models
Leasing allows you to drive newer, fuel-efficient vans more often.
3. Fewer Maintenance Worries
Most lease terms cover major repairs under warranty.
4. Professional Upfitting Is Still Possible
Contrary to popular belief, you can upfit a leased van — as long as the installation is professional and reversible.
Modern upfitting systems (like modular shelving and non-invasive mounting kits) can be removed at lease-end and reinstalled in a new vehicle without damage.
That means your investment in shelving, racks, and safety equipment can move with you when you upgrade your fleet.
❌ Cons
1. Limited Customization with Some Lease Terms
While most commercial leases allow upfits, you may need written approval from the lessor before installation.
2. Mileage Restrictions
Exceeding mileage limits can lead to added fees.
3. No Asset Ownership
At the end of the lease, you return the van and don’t build equity.
⚖️ Which Option Fits Your Business Best?
| Situation | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| You plan to keep your van long-term | Buy | Full control and best long-term value |
| You prefer lower payments and frequent upgrades | Lease | Easier budgeting and access to newer models |
| You want custom shelving or trade-specific upfits | Either | Upfitting works for both—modular systems are transferable |
🧰 Van Pro’s Expertise in Upfitting Both Owned & Leased Vans
At Van Pro Inc., we work with both purchased and leased vehicles across Montreal and Ottawa.
Our upfitting systems are:
-
Non-invasive & transferable – perfect for leased vans.
-
Trade-customized – designed for electricians, plumbers, and contractors.
Whether you own or lease, Van Pro ensures your van is organized, efficient, and ready to work.
🚀 Ready to Upgrade Your Van?
Maximize your investment with a professional upfit built for your trade.
👉 Explore our Upfit Packages
👉 Contact Van Pro Inc. for a free consultation in Montreal or Ottawa