Home-based used lorry and van broker

Small haulage firms, tradespeople, owner-drivers and private buyers who want a lorry or van without searching auctions themselves.

The gap between what you pay and what you sell for, or a fixed fee or commission if you act purely as a go-between. The revenue estimate here reflects your gross margin, not the full sale price of each vehicle.

• Good knowledge of lorries and vans
• Negotiating and spotting a fair price
• Building trust with buyers and sellers

• Motor trade insurance, and public liability cover. Check what each policy covers for test drives and vehicles in your care
• Always run a vehicle history check for outstanding finance, theft or mileage problems before buying
• Selling to private buyers brings consumer law duties under the Consumer Rights Act, so check what you must disclose and guarantee
• Ask HMRC or an accountant about the VAT margin scheme for second-hand goods and how you register
• Check whether low emission or clean air zones affect the older vehicles you want to sell
• Cash tied up in a single expensive vehicle can be a real risk if it doesn't sell

Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how you set up your website, listings, insurance and travel. These are estimates, and cash tied up in any vehicle you buy is a further risk to plan for.

Check motor trade and public liability insurance, and what each covers for test drives. Also check vehicle history for finance, theft or mileage problems, your Consumer Rights Act duties to private buyers, and the VAT margin scheme with HMRC or an accountant.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on how many vehicles you sell and your margins. Cash tied up in a single expensive vehicle that doesn't sell can be a real risk, so plan carefully.