11 Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale in 2025

Buying Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale today means entering a smaller but profitable market. The UK now has fewer than 5,000 ice cream van businesses, but these mobile dessert stations can make profit margins up to 99%. These numbers make it an attractive business opportunity. See vans for sale

The Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale needs a big upfront investment. You’ll find prices range from £20,000 for used vans to £85,000 for new ones. Whitby Morrison’s ice cream vans lead the market, and they build over 85 vans each year using Mercedes-Benz Sprinter’s chassis. The company’s success has reached beyond UK shores, with their vans now operating in more than 60 countries worldwide. See van sales 

We’ve done really detailed research to help you find the best ice cream vans available in 2025. This piece covers everything from classic Whitby Morrison models to eco-friendly electric options and budget-friendly converted vehicles. You’ll get a full picture to make your investment decision easier.

Whitby Morrison Classic Van

 

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Whitby Morrison Ice Cream Vans for Saletowers above its competitors in the premium ice cream van market. Bryan Whitby, a talented refrigeration engineer, founded this Crewe-based manufacturer in 1962. The company has grown to become the UK’s largest ice cream van producer. These classic vans blend traditional charm with modern reliability, which makes them a top choice for serious vendors.

The craftsmanship in each Whitby Morrison vehicle amazes customers. The company builds about 100 vans each year – 60 new builds, 30 conversions, and 10 vintage van transformations. Every vehicle goes through a detailed 4-6 week build process. This starts with chassis preparation and moves on to GRP bodywork manufacturing. The team then fabricates the refrigeration system and customises the interior to match the owner’s needs. See Ford Vans for sale

Mercedes Sprinter chassis serve as the base vehicle for 90% of new Whitby Morrison ice cream vans. The company also works with Ford Transit and VW Crafter platforms. Customers looking for a nostalgic touch can choose expertly converted and restored heritage ice cream vans built on classic Bedford, Austin, and Morris vehicles. See fuel efficient vans

A Whitby Morrison classic van’s price changes based on age, condition, and specifications. A 1990 Ford Transit Whitby Morrison model with 40,000 miles and valid MOT until April 2025 was valued at £3,500-£4,500. New models with custom features cost by a lot more. See icecream van music

These vehicles’ proven track record of business success makes them special. A Mr Whippy Leeds operator shared his experience: “Buying my first new Whitby Morrison van was the best move I ever made. I never looked back from that point”. Plaza Ices added their view: “Once you’ve got your first Whitby Morrison van you’re away. We’d be very reluctant to go anywhere else now”.

The company’s reputation reaches way beyond British shores and Ice Cream Vans for Sale. Whitby Morrison vehicles operate at prestigious locations like the London Eye and Tower of London. The company has also completed custom projects for luxury brands like Hotel Chocolat and created a fleet of 20 vans working in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Ford Transit Ice Cream Conversion

 

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Entrepreneurs looking for Ice Cream Vans for Sale to balance cost and functionality will find the Ford Transit ice cream van conversion a great middle-ground option. Business owners love this versatile vehicle’s spacious interior and flexible layout options.

The price of Ford Transit ice cream vans changes a lot based on age and condition. You can find second-hand models from the early 1990s around £12,500. Older vehicles that need repairs might go for £2,500-£3,000. A 1981 Ford Transit MK2 ice cream van with 63,000 miles sold at auction for £4,300 in January 2025.

Want to convert a Transit yourself? Basic conversion packages start at £7,990+VAT. These cover the basics like insulation, internal plywood lining, non-slip vinyl flooring, and stainless steel counters. On top of that, they include water systems with sinks and taps, 16amp electrics with multiple spotlights, and a roof vent. Professional conversions through specialists like Whitby Morrison cost much more—around £35,000.

Technical Considerations

The Ford Transit you choose needs to meet specific technical requirements. Industry experts suggest a T300 with rear-wheel drive and 3137mm wheelbase. You need rear-wheel drive because soft-serve machines usually draw power straight from the crankshaft pulley. This setup needs a north-south engine configuration.

Market Appeal

The Ford Transit ice cream van brings back memories for people who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. Modern brands like Hero, Charlotte Tilbury, Carlsberg, and Greggs now choose these vehicles.

Today’s market shows newer models fetch higher prices. A 2008 Ford Transit ice cream van with 163,000 miles sells for about £10,500. You can find vintage options from 1988 around £5,995. These older models have a retro charm that customers can’t resist.

The Transit’s spacious interior makes it perfect not just for ice cream service. You could turn it into a coffee shop or street food kitchen too.

Mercedes Sprinter Ice Cream Van

 

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The Mercedes Sprinter has become the go-to premium chassis for ice cream van conversions over the past decade. Its unmatched versatility and reliability in mobile vending have made Sprinter-based ice cream vans highly valuable in the secondary market.

Budget-conscious entrepreneurs can find many options in the used Sprinter ice cream van market. Prices for 2011-2014 models range from £9,800 to £21,800, based mainly on mileage and condition. The 2018 models with lower mileage (around 105,000 miles) sell for about £29,800. New vehicles need a bigger investment – base Mercedes Sprinter vehicles cost between £23,315 and £47,870, while complete ice cream conversions can reach £85,000.

Operations Director Ed Whitby explains why the Sprinter is so popular: “The Sprinter leads the field in terms of everything from reliability and durability, to fuel-efficiency and safety. It’s also more comfortable than its competitors, particularly the latest model”. Mercedes-Benz’s extensive service network adds value with night-time servicing and free emergency roadside assistance – vital benefits for seasonal businesses with tight operating windows.

The 2018 refresh introduced several key improvements:

• Updated exterior design with modified grille and headlights
• New front-wheel-drive powertrain option
• MBUX infotainment systems with fleet management capabilities
• Enhanced camera systems
• Improved air conditioning

Whitby Morrison uses the 3.5-tonne variant (typically the 314 CDI model) most often, though 5.0-tonne chassis options work well for larger operations. Each custom conversion takes about six weeks, with vehicles hand-finished to match customer specifications.

The Sprinter’s size options make it incredibly versatile. You get four different lengths and three roof heights, perfect for anything from neighbourhood routes to event catering.

An eco-friendly version launched in 2019 with the electric Sprinter. It offers 104.4 miles of range with the 55 kWh battery option – a great fit for urban routes with good charging infrastructure.

Vintage Bedford CF Ice Cream Van

 

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The Bedford CF Ice Cream Vans for Sale appeal stems from nostalgia. This quintessentially British classic remains highly valuable in the collector’s market. Both business owners and enthusiasts treasure these iconic vehicles manufactured throughout the 1970s and early 1980s.

Original Bedford CF ice cream vans came with 2279cc engines. Many restored models now use Perkins diesel 4108 Cummings powerplants. Restorers carefully preserve the direct drive system that powers the soft ice cream machine from the engine, which keeps the authentic vintage operation intact.

The market values these restored examples quite highly. A fully refurbished 1972 Bedford CF sold at auction for £13,100. Classic models with Morrison Castle bodies can fetch upwards of £14,000. Buyers show substantial interest even in unrestored projects, as demonstrated by a 1980 Bedford CF ice cream van that drew multiple bids despite needing recommissioning.

Restoration demands extensive work. An owner’s 1973 Bedford needed “right back to basics with extensive chassis work”. The work included replacing brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and adjusters. The electrical system needed attention too – replacing an improvised “Batman Button” ignition switch with a proper key system.

These vehicles shine at special events. One owner shares that “Lottie herself provides the wow factor when guests see her”. Their attention is drawn to weddings, classic car shows, TV productions, and promotional work.

Whitby Morrison, the industry’s leading ice cream van manufacturer, specialises in Bedford CF restorations. Their heritage division has revolutionised numerous examples into “stunning” vehicles. They add modern refrigeration and counterwork while keeping the original character. Their expertise helps keep these classics running, as one owner’s restored Bedford sees daily use.

The Bedford CF stands as an irreplaceable piece of British cultural heritage that collectors value for its authentic vintage appeal without modern underpinnings.

Electric Ice Cream Van by Whitby

 

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Environmental worries about traditional ice cream vans have sparked new breakthroughs in the industry. Whitby Morrison stands as a revolutionary force with their ePower system. Their emission-free energy solution pairs lithium-ion batteries with roof-mounted solar technology that eliminates fossil-fuelled generators and direct drive systems.

The company’s ePower system comes in three distinct variants that match specific operational needs:

The base model costs £111,550 with your own chassis, while a new Mercedes Sprinter 317 MWB chassis bumps the price to £161,550. The price tag might seem steep at first, yet operational savings prove most important. Vendors spend about £8,000 yearly on fuel, while electricity costs much less.

The system’s battery performance shines brightly. It can produce Mr Whippy ice cream non-stop for 12 hours on one charge. The original prototype, created with TV presenter and mechanic Edd China, featured a clever cassette-style battery system that allowed quick battery swaps.

All but one of these Whitby Morrison ePower systems  Ice Cream Vans for Saleuse the Mondial Lusso bodywork design. This gives them a sleek, professional look that matches their eco-friendly features. The technology has proven reliable at prestigious spots like Wembley Stadium and Edinburgh Castle.

Vendors who need less mobility can opt for the Electric Motor Drive (EMD) system. This popular choice appears in 95% of new Whitby Morrison vans and lets them run on mains electricity without using the engine. Vendors working at fixed locations with power connections call it their ideal solution.

The ePower system’s adaptability extends beyond traditional vans. Entrepreneurs can install it in trailers, kiosks, mobile homes, and campervans. This opens up new possibilities for eco-conscious business owners entering the ice cream market.

Citroën HY Ice Cream Van Replica 

 

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The Citroën HY van’s corrugated shape makes it instantly recognisable. French people lovingly call it “Nez de Cochon” (Pig Nose). This iconic French vehicle gives ice cream entrepreneurs a unique way to stand out. After World War II, it started as a simple front-wheel drive delivery truck. Today, modern replicas serve a new purpose as mobile food businesses.

Modern HY replicas blend old-world charm with real-life benefits. Most new versions are trailers instead of road-legal vans. This design choice removes mechanical maintenance headaches while keeping the customer-attracting looks. Prices depend on what you need – short wheelbase models start at £21,995, and long wheelbase versions begin at £31,995.

Need more than just a towable trailer? Electric-powered options cost from £11,912. These can travel 50-80km on a single charge at speeds up to 45km/h. Complete ice cream or coffee conversion packages range from £36,250 to £48,072.

Technical specifications generally include: Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale

These replicas’ fibreglass construction beats the original metal bodies in many ways. The light shell needs little upkeep and insulates well. Without a traditional cab, you get 2.5m² more working space than original HY vans.

These eye-catching vehicles are great at drawing crowds. Their vintage look creates instant appeal at events, festivals, and street spots – perfect for boosting ice cream sales. A university catering manager’s success story says it all: “We made £12,000 over 2 days and served over 500 people”.

Quality differs among manufacturers. UK companies offer reliable EU -certified galvanised trailers with one-year guarantees (up to five years available). Some cheaper overseas options might not have the reliable construction needed for commercial food service.

Ice Cream Tricycle with Freezer Cart    Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale

 

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Ice cream tricycles offer an economical way to start a mobile dessert business, especially for entrepreneurs who have limited capital or need maximum mobility. These pedal-powered units blend old-world charm with practical functionality and create a nostalgic feeling without requiring much investment.

These tricycles can carry impressive loads. The front platforms support up to 200 kilogrammes. Their size – 0.9m wide, 2.1m long, and 1.2m tall – makes them perfect for different settings while being compact enough to fit through crowded spaces.

Prices change a lot based on what you get:

You can customise most models to your needs. Pashley’s Classic No.33, a heritage model that’s 50 years old, has customizable nameplates for branding. Sun parasols attach easily with integrated clips, which boost your brand visibility and protect from weather.

The freezer systems come in different types. Traditional models need standard UK electric points when they’re not moving. The newer “Mobile Deluxe” models use eutectic freezing plates that stay cold for about 10 hours without power. These units freeze overnight and maintain their temperature all day – perfect for places without power access.

These tricycles can reach places where regular vans can’t go, such as beaches, parks, shopping centres, and indoor venues. This makes them great for event hire services, and companies offer complete packages with delivery, setup, and staff service.

Ice cream tricycles blend affordability with excellent mobility. They’ve become a popular choice for both existing businesses and new entrepreneurs in the ice cream industry.

Renault Master Soft-Serve Van Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale

 

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The 2025 Renault Master stands out as an affordable and versatile platform for ice cream van conversions. This fourth-generation van features a complete redesign with aerodynamic styling and impressive payload capacity. The L2H2 configuration can carry up to 1,971kg, which beats the Ford Transit by almost half a tonne.

Ice cream business owners will love the Master’s customization options. You can choose from three lengths and two heights, with loading volumes from 10.8m³ to 14.8m³. This range lets vendors set up their space perfectly for freezers, serving equipment, and stock storage.

The van’s sliding side door is the widest in its class at 1,312mm. This makes installing large refrigeration units straightforward. The load bay extends 100mm longer than older models, which gives vendors extra workspace during busy periods.

Budget-conscious business owners can get the L2H2 model with a 130hp diesel engine for £33,500 (excluding VAT). This price point saves money compared to similar Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit models. The diesel engine comes in three options:

The Master E-Tech electric version opens new possibilities for environmentally conscious vendors. Its 87kWh battery delivers up to 285 miles of range, outperforming both the E-Transit’s 249 miles and Mercedes eSprinter’s 273 miles. Vendors can operate freely in emissions-restricted zones. Prices start at £37,500 after the government’s £5,000 Plug-in Van Grant.

Renault Master ice cream van conversions have proven their worth across Europe. Many examples operate successfully in the UK, France, and the Netherlands. This van combines affordability, practicality and performance – perfect for anyone starting or growing an ice cream van business.

Iveco Daily Ice Cream Truck Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale

 

 

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The Iveco Daily ice cream truck stands out with its resilient construction and impressive load capacity. Vendors who need durability and ample storage space will appreciate this Italian-manufactured vehicle. It combines a truck-like chassis with van-like manoeuvrability to create an ideal balance between sturdiness and accessibility.

The Iveco Daily 60C15 model has become a popular choice for ice cream conversions. Here are its key specifications:

The Iveco Daily ice cream trucks deliver excellent value compared to premium alternatives. Used 2016 models of the 60C15 variant sell between €19,900 and €21,400, roughly £17,884-£19,234. The 2017 models with 116 HP engines cost around €12,500.

These vehicles excel in refrigeration performance. Many Iveco ice cream conversions come equipped with premium cooling units like the ThemoKing V500 MAX SPECTRUM. These units maintain optimal temperatures for frozen products even during hot summer months.

The truck’s spring/spring suspension configuration gives vendors stable serving conditions when stationary. Combined with its 4×2 axle setup, the vehicle maintains steady footing at events and roadside locations.

Iveco Daily ice cream trucks might not have the iconic British heritage of their competitors. However, they make up for it with excellent payload capacity, dependable refrigeration, and competitive pricing. These features make them an excellent choice especially when you have extensive stock requirements or serve at larger events.

VW Transporter Camper Ice Cream Conversion

 

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VW campers have found a surprising new purpose in the ice cream business. Their timeless charm creates an instant connection with customers. These iconic vehicles with their retro looks pull crowds at events and festivals all over the UK.

A converted VW camper needs serious investment. Used models cost around £20,000. The newer California 6.1 with its vintage appeal costs about £60,000. The original vehicle is just the start – standard conversion packages begin at £7,990+VAT. These cover everything from insulation and plywood lining to stainless steel counters.

The specialised refrigeration technology makes these conversions special. Professional builds often use custom holdover freezers that work without running engines, generators, or electricity. Customers can enjoy their ice cream without the usual noise from traditional ice cream vans.

VW’s compact size makes it perfect for tight spaces – just 4.5m long, 1.84-1.87m wide, and 1.92m high. In spite of that, these vans are surprisingly versatile inside. Some high-roof models give extra headroom that makes serving easier.

“Mimi” stands out as a true gem – she’s thought to be the only original VW splitscreen ice cream van from 1964 still around. This SO2 high-roof sales flap van comes with authentic touches like factory-fitted Ambulance fans and bumper over-riders.

These vans shine in the events market. The Splitscreen Ice Cream Co, a 2009-old company, specialises in weddings, festivals, corporate events, and private parties. They’re more than just ice cream vans – many operators use them as photo props, complete with vintage bunting and period details that enhance the experience.

VW camper conversions are a great way for entrepreneurs to make their mark. They stand out in the competitive mobile ice cream business by offering genuine vintage character rather than focusing on high-volume sales.

Soft-Serve Trailer for Events Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale

Soft-serve trailers give entrepreneurs a great alternative to daily street vending when they focus on the events market. These specially designed units blend portability with professional-grade equipment, making them perfect for weddings, corporate functions, and birthday celebrations.

You can tow these event-focused ice cream trailers with standard SUVs thanks to their lightweight galvanised steel frames and heavy-duty chassis. Their small size lets you set them up in many places – from farmers’ markets and trade shows to indoor venues where regular vans can’t go.

The numbers make sense too. Event hire services usually charge around £550 per event, and some vendors charge just £1 per person. If you want to buy one, a professionally-equipped trailer with HSE approval costs about €8,250 (roughly £7,000).

These units stand out because of their impressive tech specs. Most come with:

• Commercial-grade soft-serve machines with 8.4-litre hopper capacity
• Production capabilities of 45 litres per hour
• Dedicated electrical circuits protecting equipment
• Integrated water systems with sinks, pumps and tanks
• Professional freezers maintaining optimal temperature

Vendors can keep serving during their busiest times without worrying about product quality.

The guest experience becomes a key selling point. Event organisers tell us that mobile ice cream service adds something special beyond just dessert – it creates lasting memories. People love options like waffle cones or “viral trays” loaded with toppings and sauces.

Both vendors and event hosts see clear benefits. Most hire services take care of setup and cleanup, bringing all the serving equipment needed. This no-fuss approach costs less than traditional catering, which really appeals to event planners watching their budget.

Summer event operators will find these trailers especially appealing. We focused on summer events and eliminated the big investment needed for daily-use vehicles while still getting into the profitable mobile ice cream market.

Comparison Table

Ice Cream Vehicle Comparison Table 2025

Conclusion

Picking the right ice cream van is one of the most important business decisions you’ll make. The choice goes way beyond the reach and influence of just picking a vehicle. This detailed guide explores ice cream vans of all types – from classic Whitby Morrison vans to innovative electric models. Each option brings unique benefits that match different business needs.

The price tag plays a significant role in buying an ice cream van. Budget-conscious entrepreneurs might think about the affordable Ice Cream Tricycle at £1,049. The 20-year old businesses looking for premium quality could invest in Whitby’s Electric Ice Cream Van starting at £111,550. Many choices exist between these price points, like the versatile Ford Transit conversion or the nostalgic Vintage Bedford CF.

Your business purpose should shape the final choice. Event vendors often do best with compact, eye-catching options like the VW Camper conversion or Citroën HY replica. The Mercedes Sprinter or Renault Master work better for regular neighbourhood routes because of their reliability and capacity.

The environmental impact has without doubt changed the industry landscape. Whitby Morrison’s electric options now run up to 12 hours straight without emissions. These vans are a great way to get around growing concerns about diesel engines in urban areas. The higher upfront cost leads to substantial fuel savings and meets strict emissions rules.

The choice between vintage charm and modern features needs careful thought. Bedford CF and VW Camper conversions offer that nostalgic appeal customers love. Modern vehicles like the Iveco Daily excel in reliability and technical specs. Your target audience and brand image determine which style will appeal more to customers.

Space needs vary a lot between different options. The Renault Master offers exceptional storage with nearly 2 tonnes payload capacity. Compact tricycles trade space for exceptional mobility. They can reach spots that regular vans just can’t access.

Successful ice cream businesses ended up combining the right vehicle with excellent products and service. Your specific needs will guide the choice. This big investment needs careful evaluation of all aspects – from original purchase price to running costs, market appeal, and practical use.

This piece gives you the detailed information you need to make this vital business choice. Whatever you choose – a classic Whitby Morrison or innovative electric model – your ice cream van will be the foundation of a thriving mobile dessert business.

FAQs Best Ice Cream Vans for Sale

Q1. How profitable are ice cream van businesses? Ice cream van businesses can be quite profitable, with high profit margins on products. However, profitability depends on factors like location, weather, and competition. While summer months can be lucrative, operators need to plan for slower periods and consider diversifying income through events and festivals.

Q2. What is the typical cost range for a new ice cream van? New ice cream vans can vary widely in price, typically ranging from £60,000 to £85,000 for fully-equipped models. However, costs can be lower for basic conversions or higher for premium custom-built vans with advanced features.

Q3. Who is the leading manufacturer of ice cream vans in the UK? Whitby Morrison is the leading manufacturer of ice cream vans in the UK. They have been producing high-quality vehicles for decades and have exported their products to over 60 countries worldwide.

Q4. What are the price ranges for used ice cream vans in the UK? Used ice cream vans in the UK can range from £20,000 to £40,000 on average. However, prices can vary significantly based on the van’s age, condition, and included equipment. Some basic models or older vehicles might be available for less, while premium used vans could cost more.

Q5. Are there eco-friendly options available for ice cream vans? Yes, eco-friendly options for ice cream vans are increasingly available. Electric ice cream vans, such as those produced by Whitby Morrison, offer emission-free operation with impressive battery life. These vehicles can operate for up to 12 hours on a single charge, making them suitable for a full day’s trading without environmental concerns.