AUCTION bids for car-derived vans are often falling short of reserve prices amid a lack of quality stock and a shortage of buyers, according to Glass's Commercial Vehicle Values.

It warns that quality vans from sources other than rental and leasing companies are a rare site, with many big fleets supplying vehicles well below 'desired' standards. George Alexander, chief editor for the guide, said: 'There are still many vans from the same fleet looking for new homes.

'With only dealers left doing the buying, inflated prices are out of the question and bids often fall short of reserve.

'Currently, there are just about enough private buyers venturing into auction halls in pursuit of the cheaper vans in order to keep the sales process turning.'