For Memphis small business owners — florists, cleaners, mobile service techs, food distributors, e-commerce sellers, and dozens of other trades — a cargo van is often the perfect first commercial vehicle. It's cheaper to run than a box truck, easier to park than a large van, and more secure than a pickup. This guide covers the four main cargo van options available used in Memphis and what to look for when buying.
The Four Main Full-Size Cargo Vans
Ford Transit (2015–present)
The Ford Transit is the most popular cargo van on the used market and for good reason. Available in three roof heights (low, medium, high) and three lengths (regular, long, extended), the Transit gives buyers unmatched configuration flexibility. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and 2.0L EcoBlue diesel are the most common powertrains. Payload: 1,600–3,700 lbs depending on configuration. The high-roof, extended-length Transit is the van of choice for e-commerce DSP drivers and trades that need standing room.
Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana (1996–present)
The Express is the old standby — a proven, simple, easy-to-repair van that's been in production for nearly 30 years with minimal major changes. That's a feature, not a bug. Parts are cheap, mechanics know them cold, and they're abundant on the used market. The 4.8L and 6.0L V8 options are workhorses. Low roof only, which means limited standing room. Best for: businesses that prioritize simplicity and low maintenance cost over cargo volume.
Ram ProMaster (2014–present)
The ProMaster (based on the Fiat Ducato platform) has front-wheel drive and a flat floor — great for businesses that load from the side doors. The highest roof height of any domestic cargo van (75.6 inches). Standard-length ProMasters are highly maneuverable. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is the only engine option. Caution: the ProMaster has more reliability complaints than the Transit or Express — research service records carefully.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (2001–present)
The Sprinter is the premium option. Diesel engine (most used examples are diesel), outstanding fuel economy (22–26 mpg highway), excellent payload and towing. Used Sprinters command a significant price premium. Maintenance is more expensive — a Sprinter service at a dealer runs 2–3x a Ford service. Best for: businesses putting on high highway mileage where the diesel economy pays off, or trades requiring maximum payload in a van format.
What to Inspect on a Used Cargo Van
- →Cargo floor: check for rust, especially in steel-floor models; ProMasters and older Transits are susceptible
- →Sliding door: open and close multiple times; worn rollers are a $400–$800 repair
- →Roof: check for leaks around skylights, vents, or previous upfitter cuts
- →Transmission: test in city driving conditions; cargo vans work their transmissions hard in stop-and-go delivery routes
- →HVAC: verify rear heat/AC if equipped; used vans often have failed rear HVAC
- →Upfitter damage: many used cargo vans had aftermarket shelving — check that mount holes were sealed and floor wasn't compromised
- →Mileage vs. use: a 150,000-mile highway delivery van may be in better shape than a 90,000-mile city van that sat in traffic daily
Used Cargo Van Pricing in Memphis
- →Chevy Express/GMC Savana, 100k–150k miles: $14,000–$24,000
- →Ford Transit (low/medium roof), 80k–130k miles: $20,000–$32,000
- →Ford Transit (high roof), 80k–120k miles: $24,000–$38,000
- →Ram ProMaster, 80k–120k miles: $18,000–$28,000
- →Mercedes Sprinter diesel, 100k–150k miles: $28,000–$48,000
Configuration: Low Roof vs. High Roof
Low-roof vans fit in standard parking garages (under 6'2"). High-roof vans (Transit, ProMaster) allow standing room inside — essential for delivery workers who spend all day climbing in and out. If your van stays in commercial areas or open lots, high-roof is usually worth it for the ergonomics alone.
New vs. Used: The Case for Buying Used
A new Ford Transit cargo van starts around $48,000–$58,000 (2026). A well-maintained 2020 Transit with 80,000 miles can be found for $24,000–$32,000. That's $20,000–$30,000 in savings with most of the useful life still ahead of it. For a small business managing cash flow, buying used is almost always the better financial decision.
Victory Auto Commercial at 4885 Elmore Road in Memphis stocks a rotating selection of cargo vans — Transit, Express, ProMaster, and Sprinter. Every van is ASE-inspected before listing. In-house financing through 14 commercial lenders. Call (901) 380-5800 for current availability.
Browse our current inventory at 4885 Elmore Road or call (901) 380-5800. ASE-inspected commercial trucks, same-day financing.