Mobile tractor parts van

Farms, agricultural contractors and repair workshops that lose money when machines are off the road.

Margin on parts sold, plus delivery or call-out charges for urgent orders. Regular route customers and account customers give steadier income.

• Good knowledge of common machinery and parts
• Route planning and reliable driving
• Building trust with farmers and mechanics

• Stock tied up in the van can sit unsold, so start small and track what sells
• Check van insurance covers goods in transit and business use
• Public liability and product liability insurance are worth checking
• Offering credit to customers means some may pay late, so agree terms clearly
• Check rules on carrying hydraulic oils or other hazardous items

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on the van and how much stock you carry. Starting small and tracking what sells can help avoid stock sitting unsold in the van.

Check that your van insurance covers goods in transit and business use, and consider public liability and product liability insurance. Also check the rules on carrying hydraulic oils or other hazardous items, and agree clear credit terms with customers.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your route, stock and customers. Expect at least around 20 hours a week, with reliable driving, route planning and good machinery knowledge.