Top tips: On how to get the best deals on fleet vehicles

Todd Hunter. Photo / Supplied

Todd Hunter of Turners car auctions tells how to get the best deals on fleet vehicles.

Should companies be reassessing their vehicle needs in this economic environment?
It is vital to reassess your fleet as the needs of the company change. And with greater choice in the market, now is an ideal time to review your vehicle needs - whether you're looking for New Zealand-new cars or imports.

How can businesses cut costs when buying company vehicles?
Buying through auction offers a wide selection of late-model vehicles. And because these vehicles aren't new, there will be less depreciation.

Another tip is to put vehicles through a pre-purchase inspection to help lower the risk of having to fork out in the future. A well-maintained car will cost less to run and is more likely to achieve a higher resale value than those in a poorer condition.

What is the best way for businesses to get a good deal when selling?
Selling a car is not an easy process but the options are straightforward - auction or sell it yourself, or use a fleet management company to do it for you. If you want to do it yourself, use a range of marketing options by listing on a number of online sites.

What hidden costs should companies be aware of, and how can they be avoided?
Transparency is key for all vehicle dealings. You need to know the price you're buying or selling for is the right one.

So make sure you receive expert advice or use a price checker such as pricecheck.turners.co.nz/. By buying at auction, you pay for the car cost alone, without the vehicle dealer's holding costs.

Is it better for businesses to buy new or used vehicles?
It depends. Used vehicle fleets tend to suit small companies where the use is more important than its make, model and status.

And used fleet vehicles in good condition beat buying new every time for value. With so many large firms hitting the skids financially, there are increasing opportunities to snap up a great deal.

Prestigious companies may be surprised at the quality vehicles that are coming through the used car market. - an Audi that looks brand new, bought at a second hand price, is still an Audi that looks brand new. All companies will have different motivators for their company fleet. Some will want their staff in new vehicles and be prepared to pay for this.

However, in these tighter times, we're seeing a lot of businesses buy second-hand vehicles to lower both the depreciation and the company's fringe benefit tax liability.

www.turners.co.nz