The 5 Best Vehicles For Cleaning Businesses

Choosing the right vehicle for your cleaning business is key to improving efficiency, lowering costs, and professionalism. This article outlines the top 5 vehicles for cleaning services in 2024. By knowing your options, you can make informed decisions to support your business needs and growth. Read on to find out the best vehicle for your commercial cleaning business.

Disclaimer: The information below is accurate as of August 2024.

1. Ford Transit Cargo Van

Overview: The Ford Transit Cargo Van is a versatile and reliable vehicle for any business. The 2024 model has advanced features, strong performance, and plenty of cargo space. Known for its durability and flexibility, this van is still a top choice for commercial use. With its modern design and latest technology, the Ford Transit Cargo Van gives your cleaning company a professional image.

Specifications:

• Make: Ford

• Model: Transit Cargo Van

• Year: 2024

• Engine: 3.5L V6

• Cargo Space: 487.3 cubic feet

• Fuel Efficiency: 15-19 MPG (city/highway)

Why it’s ideal for cleaning businesses:

• Ample cargo space: Perfect for transporting cleaning equipment, vacuum cleaners, and carpet cleaning machines.

• Durability: Built to withstand daily use, ensuring lower maintenance costs.

• Customizable shelving: Allows for organized storage of cleaning supplies and brooms.

• Professional image: Enhances the company vehicle’s appearance, making a great impression on clients.

• High payload capacity: Supports heavy cleaning products and pressure washing equipment.

• Fuel efficiency: Balances power with cost-effective fuel consumption, saving on operational costs.

Pros:

• Large storage space

• Durable construction

• Customizable interiors

Cons:

• Higher initial cost

• Lower fuel efficiency

• Large size may be challenging for city driving

Price range: From $48,000

2. Ford Transit Connect Van

Overview: The Ford Transit Connect Van is a compact and economical vehicle for small business use. Its compact size and modern features make it easy to drive in urban areas, and it has enough cargo space. (However, please note that according to the manufacturer, they are retiring this model from their fleet.)

Specifications:

• Make: Ford

• Model: Transit Connect Van

• Year: 2023

• Engine: 2.0L I4

• Cargo Space: 127.4 cubic feet

• Fuel Efficiency: 24-27 MPG (city/highway)

Why it’s ideal for cleaning businesses:

• Compact size: Ideal for city driving and tight spaces.

• Fuel efficiency: Offers excellent gas mileage, reducing fuel costs.

• Versatile cargo space: Adequate for storing cleaning supplies, vacuum cleaners, and mops.

• Affordability: Lower initial cost compared to larger vans.

• Professional appearance: Maintains a clean and professional look for small businesses.

• Easy to maintain: Lower maintenance costs due to simpler mechanics.

Pros:

• Compact and maneuverable

• Fuel-efficient

• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited cargo space

• Model being discontinued

• Fewer customization options

Price range: From $34,585

3. Mercedes Benz Sprinter Crew

Overview: The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Crew is a premium vehicle for luxury, performance, and ample cargo space. The 2024 model is suitable for bigger cleaning businesses that need to carry staff and equipment. Its advanced features and robust build make it a top-of-the-line vehicle for commercial use.

Specifications:

• Make: Mercedes Benz

• Model: Sprinter Crew

• Year: 2024

• Engine: 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel

• Cargo Space: 370.8 cubic feet

• Fuel Efficiency: 14-18 MPG (city/highway)

Why it’s ideal for cleaning businesses:

• Luxurious design: Enhances the company vehicle’s professional image.

• High cargo capacity: Suitable for extensive cleaning equipment and large vacuum cleaners.

• Advanced safety features: Ensures driver and crew safety with modern technology.

• Reliable performance: Offers robust power for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.

• Customizable interiors: Adaptable for various storage needs, including shelving for cleaning supplies.

• Dual purpose: Can transport both crew and equipment simultaneously.

Pros:

• Luxurious and professional appearance

• High cargo and payload capacity

• Advanced safety features

Cons:

• High initial cost

• Lower fuel efficiency

• Expensive maintenance

Price range: From $53,900

4. RAM ProMaster

Overview: The RAM ProMaster is a versatile and spacious van for commercial use. The 2024 model is practical and efficient, so it's good for cleaning businesses. Front-wheel drive makes it more agile in urban areas.

Specifications:

• Make: RAM

• Model: ProMaster

• Year: 2024

• Engine: 3.6L V6

• Cargo Space: 463 cubic feet

• Fuel Efficiency: 13-18 MPG (city/highway)

Why it’s ideal for cleaning businesses:

• Spacious interior: Accommodates large cleaning equipment and storage solutions.

• Front-wheel drive: Enhances maneuverability and handling.

• Customizable shelving: Allows for organized cleaning supplies, mops, and brooms.

• Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily commercial use.

• Fuel efficiency: Offers a balance of power and fuel economy.

• Professional appearance: Projects a strong, professional image to clients.

Pros:

• Large cargo capacity

• Front-wheel drive for better handling

• Customizable interior

Cons:

• Moderate fuel efficiency

• Higher initial cost

• Bulky size for city driving

Price range: From $44,405

5. Nissan NV200 S Compact Cargo

Overview: The Nissan NV200 S Compact Cargo is a compact and efficient van for small to medium-sized cleaning businesses. The 2020 model is practical, fuel-efficient and affordable, so it is good for urban use.

Specifications:

• Make: Nissan

• Model: NV200 S Compact Cargo

• Year: 2020

• Engine: 2.0L I4

• Cargo Space: 122.7 cubic feet

• Fuel Efficiency: 24-26 MPG (city/highway)

Why it’s ideal for cleaning businesses:

• Compact size: Perfect for navigating through crowded city streets.

• Fuel efficiency: High MPG reduces operational costs.

• Affordable: A lower price point makes it accessible for small businesses.

• Adequate cargo space: Sufficient for essential cleaning equipment and supplies.

• Easy maintenance: Lower maintenance costs due to simpler design.

• Professional look: Maintains a clean and professional appearance for business branding.

Pros:

• Compact and maneuverable

• High fuel efficiency

• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited cargo space

• Lower payload capacity

• Fewer advanced features

Price range: From $22,830

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Cleaning Business Vehicle?

Choosing the right vehicle for your cleaning business involves many factors to ensure it meets your operational needs. Using a company vehicle for business and personal use has big implications, especially for tax purposes. 

Keeping accurate records is important to ensure compliance during year-end tax planning if you also intend to use it as a personal vehicle. Here are the things to consider.

Space

Having enough space is key to transporting cleaning supplies and equipment efficiently. The vehicle should fit all your equipment, from vacuum cleaners to pressure washing machines. For bigger items like carpet cleaning machines or water tanks, look for a vehicle with a ramp or one that sits low to the ground. This makes loading and unloading easier and faster, saving you time on service calls. Make sure the vehicle has customizable shelving to keep your supplies organized and secure during transit.

Price

Price is a big factor – you want to ensure your investment doesn’t eat into your bottom line. Set a budget for how much you can afford to spend on a new vehicle or fleet. Check out financing options like car loans to help with the cost. Buying used or leasing can be cost-effective for your cleaning business. If unsure, our guide to small business vehicles can help. Always weigh the upfront cost against the long-term benefits and savings.

Also, consider the financial implications and tax obligations of having a company-owned vehicle, especially when used by employees personally. Proper documentation is required for business use, and personal use can incur additional tax liabilities.

Maintenance cost

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle in good condition and avoid breakdowns. Check the past maintenance cost of your vehicles (if applicable) to estimate future expenses. Compare these costs to the warranty options for new vehicles – opt for a longer warranty if you expect high maintenance costs. 

Use Aspire's equipment management features to monitor your fleet’s mechanical health, which can prevent high maintenance costs and ensure your vehicles are always ready for their next job.

Insurance costs

Insurance is an ongoing expense for company vehicles. Coverage requirements vary by location, so knowing what’s essential and optional for your business is important. Get quotes online or from an insurance agent and consider the vehicle model, annual mileage, and number of drivers per vehicle. 

These details will help you get an accurate quote and factor insurance costs into your long-term budget. Also, when an employee uses a company car for personal use, it’s important to know the valuation method to determine the taxable amount and ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Fuel efficiency

Fuel costs are a concern for any business owner. Choosing a vehicle with good fuel economy will save you money in the long run. Consider the nature of your service area – inner city operations might require different fuel efficiency considerations than rural areas due to varying traffic and road conditions. Choose a model with the best fuel economy for your needs to keep fuel costs under control.

Resale value

Knowing a vehicle’s resale value is important for long-term planning. Resale value is how much you can expect to get when selling or trading in the vehicle. Higher resale value means you can get more money back when upgrading your fleet. Research the resale value of the vehicles you’re looking at and how well they hold their value over time. This will impact the overall cost of ownership.

Safety features

Safety should be your top consideration when choosing a vehicle. Modern safety features protect your drivers, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and potentially increase resale value. Ensure your vehicle has safety equipment to secure cleaning supplies and equipment during transit. Consider the need for shelves, boxes, or containers to prevent spills and contamination, which also affects the type of flooring you might need.

Vehicle advertising

Your work vehicle can be a mobile billboard. Custom vehicle graphics or wraps can promote your cleaning business wherever you go. This mobile advertising is a valuable marketing tool for your business. Ensure your chosen vehicle can accommodate these promotional materials and project a professional image for your business.

Additional features

Consider the extras that will make your vehicle more functional. Built-in storage solutions, easy-to-clean interiors, and customizable compartments will make daily operations more efficient. These will keep your cleaning supplies organized and at your fingertips, improving overall productivity and service quality.

Choosing the right vehicle balances all the factors for your cleaning business. With the right information, you can make a decision that will benefit your business.

Beyond Just Vehicles: Grow Your Business with Aspire

Aspire’s business management platform has the solutions to supercharge your cleaning business. With features to streamline operations, improve communication, and provide real-time data insights, Aspire helps you manage your fleet and crews better. See how Aspire can help your business grow with advanced tools and technology.

• Real-time communication: Aspire Mobile offers real-time communication to boost field efficiency and customer experience.

• Standardized field-to-office communication: Ensure accuracy and accountability, eliminate costly mistakes, and boost brand trust.

• Automated scheduling: Aspire uses cloud sync for real-time updates, reducing duplication and confusion.

• Mobile checklists: Allow crew leaders to confirm daily equipment, materials, and services.

• Service history records: Create records with notes, photos, and videos to keep clients informed and satisfied.

Aspire’s data insights can help your fleet:

• Get rid of paper schedules and timesheets: Use unique PINs and geofencing for time tracking; no more guesswork and inconsistencies in payroll.

• Auto dispatch scheduling: Send crews their weekly or monthly schedules to their mobile devices.

• Mobile time tracking and geofenced clock-ins: Get precise location data; no more guesswork and inefficiency.

• Real-time data: Access and use data across the organization; no more duplication and errors.

• Powerful reporting: Get a complete business view and make informed decisions.

With Aspire, you can:

• Export payroll data: Export hours to integrated platforms to avoid payroll bottlenecks.

• Opt-in one click: Reduce time on the road, cut costs, and improve margins on every job.

• Drive decision-making with data: Use time and material expended tracking to see the most profitable properties on the schedule.

• Flexible profit and loss reporting and pivot tables: Get detailed insights for strategic planning to develop actionable plans for growth and profitability.

Aspire has all the features to run your cleaning business smoothly, efficiently, and profitably. From crew management to real-time data insights, Aspire has you covered so you can make informed decisions and optimize your business.

Back to You Now

Choosing the right vehicle for your cleaning business is important. Consider space, price, maintenance costs, insurance, fuel efficiency, resale value, safety features, and extras. Each vehicle has its advantages for your cleaning business. 

Aspire’s management platform will help you even more. For more insights, check out our blog on starting a cleaning business and the best cleaning business apps to use.

Ready to optimize your cleaning business operations? Book a free demo with Aspire today!