If you’ve been enjoying the tax perks that come with leasing a double cab pickup for your business, there’s an important update you’ll want to know about.
From 6 April this year, HMRC changed how these pickups are treated for tax purposes. Until now, most double cab pickups qualified as vans, which meant lower benefit-in-kind tax for business users. But that’s all about to change.
The trusted team at 360 Vehicle Leasing is here to explain what’s happening and what you can do to stay ahead.
What’s Changing?
For years, double cab pickups were treated as vans as long as they could carry a payload of one tonne or more. That simple rule helped business users save a decent amount on tax.
But from April 2025, HMRC changed the rules. Instead of relying on weight alone, they’ll be looking at how the vehicle is actually built and what it’s mainly designed to do; carry people or carry goods.
Because most pickups like the Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux are equally suited to both, they’ll now be classed as cars for tax purposes. And that means a higher tax bill for those using them as company vehicles.
How Will This Affect Leasing?
If you’re leasing a double cab pickup through your business and providing it to an employee, the tax savings you’ve been used to may no longer apply.
In short, what used to be a tax-friendly option could now end up costing more.
Transitional Relief Is Available
If you have leased, bought or placed an order for a double cab pickup before 6 April 2025, you’ll still be able to treat it as a van for tax purposes for a while longer.
This transitional relief lasts until whichever comes first:
This provides you a valuable window of opportunity to enjoy the benefits under the old rules.
What’s Next?
Not sure how this affects your next lease? Want to explore your options now the rules have changed? The team at 360 Vehicle Leasing is ready to help.
From their base in Bury, they support business and personal customers all over the UK. Whether you need a pickup, van or something more compact, they’ll guide you through the process and help you find the best deal without the stress.
Final Thoughts
This tax change is a big shift for anyone considering a double cab pickup, especially if it's for business use. But with the right advice and a bit of planning, you can still make a smart move.
For friendly, expert help, get in touch with 360 Vehicle Leasing today and see how they can support your next lease decision.
