OT-Van Contract Hire Advice

[Shinbreath]

Something to turn the attention away from footie for a minute.

Thinking of contract hiring a new van for work, (I'm a builder, Ltd company and VAT registered), as the one I have is starting to cost me a bit of money and time with maintenance.
(I feel it's just starting to get to the age where it's gonna start costing me more money, more regularly.)

Anyone had any experience with contract hire and it's plusses and minuses.

Your thoughts are welcome. Ta in advance

 

[kingcole]

Pluses are:-

You can claim back the VAT
It's new, so minimal servicing costs (none if you opt for maintainence)
As it's new it will likely be a helluva lot more economical to run than your current one
You will get the VED paid for you
Deposit will be small (probable 3 monthly payments up front)
People might think more of your business if you are in a shiny new van

minuses:-

You will need to keep it for the length of the contract, so if things change it might be a drag.