Van-based accessories trade round

Independent garages, used car dealers, valeters, tyre fitters and small accessory retailers who prefer quick local supply to waiting for a delivery.

You sell at trade prices above your buying cost. Regular visits build repeat orders, and a tighter route means more sales per day.

• Face-to-face selling
• Route planning
• Stock control and invoicing
• Driving and loading

• Motor trade or goods-in-transit insurance for the van and stock, and public and product liability cover
• Electrical items such as lights and chargers must meet UK safety and road legality requirements, so check each product
• Offering credit to trade customers carries a risk of late payment, so set clear terms
• Check VAT registration if your turnover grows
• Stock that does not sell ties up cash, so test products in small quantities

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on the van, your insurance and how much stock you load. Stock that does not sell ties up cash, so test products in small quantities first.

As an estimate, monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on the size of your route, the range you carry and how many garages and dealers you win. Late payments from trade credit can affect cash flow.

Check motor trade or goods-in-transit insurance for the van and stock, plus public and product liability cover. Check that electrical items such as lights and chargers meet UK safety and road legality requirements, and check VAT registration if turnover grows.