Entrepreneurship has been at the forefront for a few years, with the age of resignation, the pandemic, as well as the never-ending unemployment rates being the driving force for many people to consider this route. However, when selling a product or providing a service, logistics may be one of your most frequent and important tasks to complete on a regular basis. While your car may be good for transporting those cupcakes or dropping off some dresses, you need to think about expanding and looking for much more convenient ways to transport your goods and services.
This article will take you through a list of some of South Africa’s favourite bakkies, how you can get the most out of your bakkie, and ways in which you can ensure your potential customers know about your services.
The classics
Those who have been in the business of using bakkies know that reliability is one of the key factors to consider when buying a bakkie. That’s why the likes of the Nissan NP200, Ford Ranger, and Mahindra Bolero are top choices. Why? Some of these bakkies carry the same type of specs, but according to your load and daily tasks, you may need to weigh your options. Here is a quick look:
Nissan NP200
This classic, small yet competent machine is the true definition of “dynamites come in small packages”. Packed with a multipoint fuel supply, power steering, a 1.6l 8V engine, and 5-speed manual transmission, this little dynamite can hold its own on the road in terms of transporting heavy goods. Their wheels-to-body ratio is nicely proportioned to prevent them from scratching on the surface of the road in case of speed bumps and when a driver needs to come to an abrupt stop. Fun fact; in July 2022 alone, over 1000 Nissan NP200s were sold. Proof that this bakkie is a favourite.
Ford Ranger
This bakkie has won its seat at the table of delivery vans or bakkies in the South African car sales industry. Due to its convenience in being able to offer space for more than two people, the Ford Ranger is packed with a 2.2l diesel engine for those who do not want to go the petrol route. This bakkie also operates on a manual transmission and has the likes of ABS, EBD, traction and stability control, as well as airbags. If you are looking for something slightly bigger and stylish, the Ford ranger is your go-to.
Mahindra Bolero
As mentioned earlier, the bakkies in this section are regarded as classics due to how consistent they have been , and Mahindra has been making the Bolero better with every version since their first in 2000. Here you can benefit from a 2.5l NEF Turbo Diesel in the Dropside 4X2. The Loader 4X2, Single Cab 4X2, Single Cab 4X4, Double Cab 4X2, and Double Cab 4X4 model variants deliver an impressive 74 kW of power and 238 Nm of torque. The BMT variant is powered by an m2D|CR TA/TB Turbo Diesel variant that provides 46kW of power and 195 Nm of torque.
Some best sellers
Another aspect to look at when shopping for your first or next bakkie is the top sellers’ lists. A lot of car-related websites often release lists every month or year based on stats by the likes of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), which records the automotive industry trends, sales, influences, and more. Some of the best sellers so far this year include the Toyota Hilux and the Volkswagen (VW) Amarok. Why? Here is a look below at some specs and benefits of these beasts:
Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux has been around for some time, and it is one of the most loved and sold in the bakkie industry. This beast offers a single diesel engine. It has a 2755 cc Diesel engine. Both manual and automatic transmissions are offered. The mileage of the Hilux varies depending on the model and kind of fuel. The Hilux has a wheelbase of 3085, a length of 5325, a width of 1855, and 5 seats. It has a 4-cylinder engine.
Volkswagen Amarok
In 2010, Volkswagen made the decision to rewrite the rules of the 4×4 bakkie industry. As the first major European automaker to enter the expanding market, Volkswagen created a ladder-frame utility in the form of competitors like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
The German brand’s Argentine-made Amarok, which is available in single and twin cab models and 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, has been a sales success. The Volkswagen Group’s 3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel engine, which is also used in the Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and VW Touareg, was added to the base 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel in 2016 to create the company’s most potent Amarok yet.
More than a bakkie
When most drivers buy a bakkie, it is often to start or aid an existing business. Transporting certain goods cannot be completed with any vehicle, and there are lots of people and companies looking for bakkies to rent. As a bakkie owner, you are not limited to just transporting your business’s primary goods. Your bakkie can also be used to transport furniture for anyone moving in your surrounding areas, as school transport for the local kids (provided you have shelter), and as a “flea market stand” where you can sell or market your primary products to a potential target audience that can be found miles away from your business.
The key to ensuring your bakkie does more than one job is branding. Invest in ensuring there’s enough branding and information on your bakkie so that people know what you do when you drive by. You should also remember to include contact details and make them much more visible so that your potential customers can know where to reach you. Other ways to be known to your potential customers is to target them on mediums you know they are most likely on. Most people who require bakkie services will enquire on Facebook recommendations, for example, if your business is listed in the marketplace or has provided great service to someone, people are most likely to recommend you. So, you will need some kind of online presence. It would be beneficial to also have your consumers being able to book or hire your services through their preferred mediums.
Final words, the purchase
Do not forget to weigh your options when it comes to choosing your bakkie. Are you looking for something new or second-hand delivery vans for sale in South Africa? You should note, though, that second-hand vehicles are a little less pricey than the new ride. While you may need to embark on a few meetings, test drives, as well as perusing pages sheets of vehicle reports, your future self will thank you for it after you choose a bakkie perfect for you and your business. Ensure you utilise used cars sales dealerships that are recognised, legal, and compliant with all dealership regulations to ensure you get great value for money. Remember, no question is too silly, and there is no limit to how many questions you should ask your dealer – used or new vehicle.
Ensure your business goes from A to sky-high with great service and products transported and delivered in your new bakkie.
