Marketing Associate
Figuring out the right vehicle for your business is important, and TESCO is here to help. You may be deciding between purchasing a van or a bus, unsure of either’s advantages. There are countless factors to keep in mind. For example, does your facility offer regular outings? If so, how many passengers are typically on board? Taking passenger safety and comfort in hand is key to customer satisfaction.
Regarding comfort, you will want to understand the size and scope of your audience. You must ensure they can enter and exit your van or bus with ease of use. Additionally, keep in mind the vehicle you have now. Does it tend to reach seating capacity? If not, a van may be a better option if you do not transport crowds of passengers.
Passenger Safety and Accessibility: A Top Priority
For places like senior or assisted living facilities, a bus could be a better option because of its spacious seating and accessibility. At TESCO, our inventory includes a variety of wheelchair-accessible vans and buses to fit your facility’s needs. Not only will an accessible vehicle include everyone on your trips, but it provides drivers with space to easily secure wheelchair riders.
The need for a wheelchair-accessible van or bus will depend on your facility’s passengers. If there are riders with disabilities or who have issues traversing stairs, a wheelchair-accessible vehicle is recommendable.
Use a Van or Bus as a Marketing Tool
Increasingly, residents of long-term care facilities are enjoying the freedom a van or bus offers. This may be for appointments, excursions, community engagement, or simple joyrides. Having a vehicle that can accomplish all this is crucial to maintaining brand reputation.
As mentioned in Why Upgrading Your Facility’s Bus Matters: Boosting Comfort, Image, and Care, a clean-cut vehicle gives prospective customers an impression of your community and the care residents receive. Think of it as an extension of your marketing. If the public sees a nice-looking vehicle with your company name and logo, they will probably think better of your business.
Van or Bus? Understanding the Advantages of Each
For some facilities, a bus will be the better option due to its operational efficiency. However, smaller facilities may prefer a van, as it is more compact and easier to drive. If you are only driving a few people, it is more practical. Vans also offer better fuel economy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a van’s average fuel economy is 17.5 miles per gallon compared to an average of four miles per gallon for a transit bus.
Another aspect to ponder is if your facility already has CDL drivers staffed. Most TESCO buses do not require a CDL to drive, but some do. Vehicles that hold more than 15 passengers, including the driver, require someone with a commercial driver’s license to operate. Conduct an audit of your staff and see which commercial vehicle would be best for your business.
Contact TESCO for Guidance on Your Van or Bus Purchase
For more help in your buying decision, call 800.227.3572 to speak with a sales representative. You may also fill out an information request form to have an associate contact you directly.