Investor Kiko Aguirre has outlined a business model built on renting out second-hand vans, presenting it as an alternative to traditional investments such as property. He said the returns are considerably better than those from a flat.
To illustrate how the model works, Aguirre pointed to the example of buying a 2019 Peugeot Boxer. This type of commercial vehicle can be bought on the second-hand market with around 180,000 kilometres on the clock for roughly 13,600 euros, taking advantage of its already depreciated price to maximise the return on the initial outlay.
Monthly income and customer profile
The vans are mainly rented out to self-employed workers, businesses and individuals who need transport for building work or house moves. All the marketing and booking is handled through mobile apps that specialise in vehicle rental between users and professionals.
Aguirre broke down the financial performance of the asset, saying a van like this generates an average of around 750 to 850 euros a month, which works out at almost 10,000 euros a year. That steady income allows the initial outlay to be recovered within a short period.
The investor said the scalability of the business is one of its biggest advantages. According to his estimates, with just two vans like these, an owner can already be making around 1,600 euros a month, opening the door to a steady stream of recurring income from a relatively small starting investment.
Automation and fleet management
Aguirre said the day-to-day running of the business does not require being physically present to hand over keys. He explained that the process can be managed with barely any hands-on involvement, since a device can be fitted so that customers pick up and return the vehicle themselves without the owner needing to be there, allowing for automated management.
Using this telematics technology, the investor currently coordinates a fleet of more than 45 vehicles. Through this established structure, he streamlines drop-off and collection times while keeping the operating costs of his fleet under control.
Community and monthly training
To share his experience in the transport sector, Aguirre has set up a WhatsApp group where he offers ongoing advice and practical tips. In this space, users can raise questions about buying vans and cars and checking whether a purchase is likely to be profitable in the current market.
Aguirre also runs a free monthly class within his digital community to guide new entrepreneurs through analysing vehicle profitability.
