5 Things to Check Before Buying a Used Cargo Van

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Shopping for a used cargo van in Phoenix? Learn the 5 key things to check before buying to avoid costly repairs and get the best value for your business.

Why Buying the Right Used Cargo Van Matters

A cargo van is more than just a vehicle—it’s the heart of your business operations. Whether you’re delivering goods, transporting tools, or running a mobile service, the wrong purchase can lead to downtime, expensive repairs, and missed opportunities.

Here are five essential checks to make before you invest in your next work van.

1. Vehicle History Report

Before anything else, get a Carfax or AutoCheck report.

  • Look for accident history, title issues, and previous commercial use.

  • Pay attention to service records—regular maintenance is a good sign of care.

  • At Fleet Systems Inc, every van comes with a full history report for transparency.

2. Mileage and Engine Condition

  • For cargo vans, mileage can be misleading—some with higher miles have been better maintained than low-mileage vans.

  • Listen for unusual engine noises, check for oil leaks, and review recent maintenance.

  • A pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic is worth the cost.

3. Cargo Area Condition

  • Check the flooring, walls, and shelving for excessive wear.

  • Rust or deep dents could signal heavy usage or poor storage conditions.

  • If the van was used for heavy hauling, make sure the structure is still sound.

4. Tires, Brakes, and Suspension

  • Commercial vans carry heavy loads, so tires and brakes wear faster.

  • Inspect for uneven tire wear (could indicate alignment or suspension issues).

  • Test drive the van to feel for vibrations or pulling to one side.

5. Fit for Your Business Needs

  • Consider cargo capacity, roof height, and fuel type.

  • Think about upfit potential—can you add shelving, refrigeration, or ladder racks?

  • Make sure the van aligns with your day-to-day operations and budget.

Why Buy from Fleet Systems Inc

At Fleet Systems Inc, we take the guesswork out of buying a used cargo van. We:

  • Inspect every vehicle before it hits the lot

  • Provide full maintenance history and Carfax reports

  • Offer low-mileage, work-ready vans from top brands like Ford, Ram, and Chevy

  • Have financing solutions for businesses of all sizes

Check Out Our Current Cargo Van Inventory

Visit us at Fleet Systems Inc, Phoenix, AZ
Call (602) 908-9006 for more details or to schedule a test drive.