The “best” new van for an event and exhibition business is usually a medium panel van with a long wheelbase (LWB) and a high roof, because it balances load length for shell schemes and pop-up stands with city-friendly running. For many UK operators that means a Ford Transit Custom, VW Transporter, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Renault Trafic/Vauxhall Vivaro/Peugeot Expert class — but the right choice depends on what you carry, where you work, and who drives it.

Start with your load: length, height and weight

If you regularly move 2.4m boards, roller cases and banner stands, check the load length and whether you need a through-load hatch. If you carry tall flight cases or need to stand items upright, a high-roof can save time and damage. Don’t guess on payload: weigh a typical job. Many “well-specced” vans lose payload once you add racking, ply-lining, towbar, extra seats or a tail lift.

One van or crew van?

If you often take a team to site, a crew van (double-cab) is handy but it reduces load space and payload. An alternative is a standard panel van plus a second small van or car for staff on big builds.

Urban work: ULEZ and electric options

Most new diesel vans are Euro 6 and generally meet ULEZ/CAZ standards, but always confirm the exact model on the scheme checker. If you do lots of London/inner-city work, an electric van can make sense for quiet, clean access and predictable running costs — provided your routes suit the range and you can charge reliably. As of latest confirmed guidance, the Plug-in Van Grant can be up to £5,000 for electric vans up to 4,250kg GVW (OZEV reviews grants periodically, so check Gov.uk).

Practical features event firms value

Look for wide side doors, low load height, strong load-lashing points, LED load lighting, 230V/USB power options, and factory ply-lining or durable load protection. If you tow a trailer, check towing limit and order the right towbar and cooling pack from new.

Two quick follow-ups to ask yourself

Do you need 3.5 tonnes? Staying at 3,500kg GVW keeps it car-licence friendly for most drivers, but if payload is tight you may need a heavier GVW (licence rules can vary by driver entitlement). Buy or lease? Leasing can suit seasonal businesses and keeps cash free, but check mileage, damage standards and lead times for your chosen spec.