The “best” new van for a pressure washing business is usually a medium panel van with a sensible payload, good access, and enough space for a tank, hose reels and chemicals without pushing you over weight limits. For many UK operators, that points to vans like the Ford Transit Custom, Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Renault Trafic/Vauxhall Vivaro, or similar—chosen in the right length/roof and, crucially, the right gross vehicle weight (GVW).
Start with payload and GVW (it’s the make-or-break)
Water is heavy: 1 litre weighs about 1kg. A 400–650L tank plus frame, reels, surface cleaner, generator/engine, fuel and PPE can quickly use 700–1,200kg of payload. Many “nice to drive” medium vans don’t have that much spare once you add racking and a second person. Check the van’s payload on the exact trim you’re ordering (it varies a lot with automatics, AWD, high-spec cabs, etc.).
Layout matters more than badge
Look for a wide side door and a square load bay so you can mount the tank over/just ahead of the rear axle and still access reels. A factory bulkhead is worth having for noise and safety. If you’ll carry long poles, check load length and whether you need roof bars or an internal tube.
Diesel or electric?
If you work in ULEZ/CAZ areas and do lots of stop-start urban miles, a new electric van can make sense—especially if you can charge at base. The Plug-in Van Grant is still available as of the latest confirmed guidance (up to £2,500 under 2,500kg GVW, or up to £5,000 up to 4,250kg GVW), but OZEV reviews incentives and rates can change, so check Gov.uk when ordering.
Two common pitfalls
1) Overloading: don’t size the tank bigger than your legal payload. 2) Poor ventilation/chemical storage: plan secure, separated storage and spill protection.
If you tell me your typical tank size, whether you carry hot-water kit, and your usual mileage/ULEZ exposure, I can narrow it to the best size and powertrain.
