Your small business may require a car, van, or truck at some point. Aside from helping save money on rentals and completing deliveries, having a commercial car also makes your small business look more professional and bigger. However, a recent study suggests the cost of commercial vehicles is steadily increasing as demand surges. Therefore, making a calculated decision is essential for buying the perfect vehicle for your small business requirement. After all, you wouldn't want to spend on a vehicle that would require frequent servicing or replacing anytime soon. Below are four mistakes to avoid when buying a commercial vehicle. 

Ignoring the importance of size for your business vehicle 

Options like a flashy sports car might turn heads but will certainly not be a good fit when your sales team needs to complete a delivery on a random Wednesday afternoon. Therefore, it’s best to think about your business needs and demands when buying a vehicle for your business. Consider factors like whether you’re always on the road with your team or moving around heavy equipment. If that’s the case, a bigger, durable vehicle will be your best fit. On the flip side, a smaller, agile car will be a good fit for navigating a city that is always battling with parking space. It’s all about finding the size that fits your business just right. 

Choosing the closest dealership to you 

Car shopping is not just about the closest dealership. Believe it or not, location can affect prices for the same car. Picking a dealer simply because it’s down the block might hit your wallet harder and affect your car-buying experience. So, before you commit, don't just stick to the nearest spot. Research, talk to friends and colleagues, see what their car-buying experiences were like, and dive into the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) scores of each dealer. This will help you shop smarter and get value for money. Thankfully, online platforms like Edmunds can prove helpful, connecting your business to the perfect set of wheels. 

Skipping a test drive 

Before you seal the deal on any car, make sure to take it for a test drive. That will help you know if it’s your kind of vehicle and the best fit for your business. But don't get too caught up in the joy ride, as testing is just one piece of the puzzle. Consider stuff like gas mileage, cargo space, and safety features in the big decision mix. 

Not getting a pre-purchase inspection 

Before you make it official, it’s advisable to get that car checked out. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a savvy mechanic is your golden ticket to ensuring you’re not getting the wrong vehicle, as hidden problems in a car can be wallet nightmares. You may spend around a hundred bucks for a PPI, but it’s worth it as It’s like an insurance policy for your peace of mind. Let your mechanic in on how your new car will always be on the move for your business so they can tailor the inspection to fit your needs. And if anything fishy pops up, don’t hesitate to speak up.