Van drivers shun jobs due to rocketing fuel costs

With fuel prices at unprecedented levels, van drivers are feeling the pinch and choosing to turn down work. 

A new survey has found that almost one-quarter (24 percent) of van drivers opted not to take jobs, as fuel prices mean they are not cost-effective. 

Data shows that van drivers are now having to pay an average of £2,427 more to fuel their vehicles for work purposes.

Drivers getting fuel ‘van-xiety’

MoneySuperMarket, who conducted the research, found that fuel costs had led over half (53 percent) of businesses to increase their prices. 

Another 14 percent of those surveyed had begun to build fuel costs into the quotes they give for work. It demonstrates that fuel prices are having both a direct and indirect impact on the pockets of consumers. 

Some drivers are also opting to not use their vans at all for work, due to the cost of running them. 

Of those asked, 16 percent have taken to using their family car instead, as they find it cheaper to fill up with fuel.

Vehicle shortages affecting businesses

Vehicles shortages have also led to one-in-ten (10 percent) of businesses scaling back their work, due to a lack of suitable vehicles. Recent Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) figures showed that new van registrations fell by 25.1 percent last month. 

More than one-third (34 percent) say buying a new van is just simply too expensive right now, with 16 percent unable to afford the price of a used van. 

For those fortunate enough to find, or be able to afford a new van, having one with three front seats is now a leading priority. 

Some 45 percent of van drivers need a triple bench seat, whilst 30 percent want built-in satellite navigation. A van with an automatic gearbox is now a must-have for nearly a quarter (23 percent) of drivers.

ALSO READ

UK new car sales tumble 21% in May

Car ownership dips as motorists turn to vans

Final countdown for all-electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz