I'm a contractor, should I use a pickup truck or a van?

I'm a contractor that drives around Downstate New York everyday to different jobs, usually about 50 miles a day. I use my Dad's 1994 Ford F-150 now and it's about time for a new van/pickup, so I'm debating between a 2015 Ford F-450, or a 2014 Ford E-350, which one should I get?

It really depends on what your need is. If you need a pickup to haul loads such as gravel, sand, or anything else not suited to a van then by all means get a pickup. The fact that you mention a F450 instead of a F150 tells me you are going to haul some serious loads. Unless you need the cargo covered at all times I would get a pickup. Fuel mileage will be about the same.

Use a van, better mileage & easier to secure the tools & equipment you will be carrying.

No one knows what sort of work you are engaged in. Surely you can work out, from your own intimate knowledge of the type of work you do, which will be the best.

What do you do that you need an F450 where a more common F350 wouldn't be adequate?

MOST contractors choose a van because because it allows you to keep your tools & equipment secure & dry (as well as out of sight).

If you need to haul plywood or long items (lumber, pipes, ladders etc) you can either get the E-350 with an overhead rack or just get a utility trailer. With the right engine the E-350 can tow over 10,000 lbs, so anything that doesn't fit in the van can be towed.

In my opinion the vast majority of F-450 trucks on the road are for men who are insecure and feel that owning the biggest truck in town will somehow solve their self image issues. So if you're a contractor, get an E-350. If you want to look like an insecure wuss, get an F-450. If you really need a truck and think its a better fit than a van, an F-350 should do just fine.

Both at the same timr