Summary
Used light commercial vehicle prices in the UK jumped to their highest monthly average in nearly two years in January 2026 as buyers shifted from new to pre-owned stock. BCA reported an average of £8,569, up 6.7% from December and 10.9% year over year, with strong demand across its seven-day online auctions and momentum carrying into February. The rise follows a weak 2025 for new LCV registrations—down 10.3%—which tightened supply of nearly new vans and intensified competition among professional buyers.
Key figures
- £8,569 January average for used LCVs at BCA
- +6.7% month over month versus December
- +10.9% year over year
- Highest monthly value in almost two years
- SMMT 2025 LCV registrations: 315,422 units, -10.3% year over year
- Fleet renewal dipped every month of 2025 except December (+1.7%)
Drivers of the move
- Challenging economic conditions and weak business confidence curtailed new-van purchases in 2025.
- Reduced flow of nearly new vehicles into the used channel due to slower fleet renewal.
- More buyers turned to used stock, broadening demand and lifting auction and trade prices.
- Professional buyers competed strongly for limited stock on BCA’s seven-day online platform.
Implications
- Buyers: tighter supply and firmer pricing; desirable vans may sell faster amid competitive bidding.
- Sellers and dealers: stronger pricing power and improved clearance as volumes rose in January.
- Fleets: deferred replacements support the used market but signal continued capex caution.
Outlook
Near-term pricing is supported by tight supply and steady demand, with early-February momentum suggesting the trend could extend into the first quarter. If new LCV registrations stabilize or recover later in 2026, additional supply may ease upward pressure on used values; for now, the balance favors sellers.
