Half-full vans means paying for space you're not using and inefficient fuel use. Overloading your vans also uses excessive fuel, while risking vehicle damage and prosecution.

Four wheels at the back of a vehicle doesn't mean you can carry heavier cargo. Unless improved stability is required, it is worth just hiring in a four wheel rear as and when you need the specific capability.

There's greater payload on a front wheel drive vehicle than on a rear-wheel drive. Electronically-managed gear changes have also optimised fuel consumption in automatics - manuals may not always be the most efficient.

Focus on vehicle specs that match your business needs 95% of the time - specialist vehicles can be hired as and when they're needed.

In many cases, 4x4 capability in winter is unnecessary. Investment in winter tyres and driver training could serve you just as well.

You could be wasting fuel and paying excessive tax on larger engines. Today's 1.5l engine has the same power as an old 2.5l one, so focus on matching power outputs, not engine size, to your operating needs.