Headline monthly figures hide the terms that matter. A lease with a tight mileage cap can cost more than buying once excess miles and damage charges land. Buying ties up cash and leaves you with residual value — up or down. Put both options through the same working week: miles, fuel, insurance, and downtime. If the work is short-term or the contract can end quickly, a long lease is a different risk to a van you already own. Neither option is automatically the right one. Compare the contract, not the advert. Figures and examples on this site are illustrative. They are not financial, legal or insurance advice. Check current rules with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser.
Which option is cheaper?
Neither is automatically cheaper. Compare contract mileage, excess-mile charges, residual value and the day the van is off the road.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is a comparison framework. Speak to an accountant or broker about your own figures.