How to Lease a Cargo Van

Often used by electricians, plumbers and other contractors, cargo or work vans enable people to transport and store large items or large numbers of items. Cargo vans allow for mobility of supplies while simultaneously protecting them from the elements. If an individual has a short-term need for a cargo van, or wants to give one an extended test run prior to a complete purchase, he may choose to lease a cargo van. The process to lease a cargo van is the same as leasing any other vehicle.

• 1

  Research cargo van options on the Internet to determine which van you want to lease. Visit sites like Edmunds.com or CarsDirect to review the various cargo vans and their full list of features. Choose a cargo van model in your price range.

• 2

  Estimate how long you'll need the van for to determine whether to apply for a short- or long-term lease. Target a "close-ended" type of lease, which allows you to simply return the vehicle at the end of the lease without worrying about its change in market value. Avoid "open-ended" leases, which require the customer to pay the difference between the estimated lease-end value that determined the lease rate and the actual value of the vehicle at the time of return.

• 3

  Review your mileage over the past months to determine auto usage or estimate the amount of mileage you'll put on the cargo van. Use this number as a guideline in the hunt for a car lease, as car leases often have mileage clauses included.

• 4

  Contact the car dealerships in your area to see if they offer leases on your desired cargo van model. Check with used-car lots to see if they carry an earlier version of the cargo van for less money. Supply the dealers with the leasing terms you are looking for. Ask for quotes from each dealer that carries the vehicle.

• 5

  Travel to the dealer offering the best leasing terms. Use the quotes from the other dealerships to try and negotiate a better price or more favorable terms, such as increased mileage limits. Visit other dealers offering the van if unable to negotiate favorable terms with the first dealer you meet.

• 6

  Peruse the paperwork for the lease before signing it. Make sure you fully understand all verbiage and requirements included in the lease. Ask the dealer to clarify any confusing terms and how the depreciation value of the van was calculated. Show your driver's license and proof of insurance along with any other documents required for the final signing. The dealership may be able to provide insurance or point you to an insurance agency if needed.