Mini Buses

Buying a used mini bus starts with passenger count, GVWR, route needs, and driver licensing.

  • Best fit: Churches, daycares, camps, senior programs, and small shuttles.
  • Budget: Often $12,000-$35,000 depending on chassis, lift, mileage, and year.
  • Check: GVWR, passenger rating, ADA lift operation, floor condition, and CDL fit.
Need help choosing? Compare sizes, body styles, CDL thresholds, and buyer use cases after the listings. View the decision guide
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2025 Ford Th400 School Bus

38586

Experience safe, efficient, and reliable school transport with the 2025 Ford TH400 School Bus. Engineered to support the demanding needs of public and private schools, employee shuttles, daycares, and camps, this fleet-ready vehicle seats up to 14 passengers, making it ideal for transporting students, children, adults, and employees. Built on Ford’s trusted chassis, the TH400 delivers low total cost of ownership (TCO) and exceptional dependability, ensuring your organization maintains a reliable fleet for years to come.

Ford is renowned for producing robust, long-lasting vehicles, and the TH400 upholds this legacy with its proven engineering and commitment to safety. The 2025 model features the latest advancements in durability and operational efficiency, making it the smart choice for fleet buyers and school bus operators looking for performance and peace of mind.

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Passengers 14
Year 2025

2017 Ford E350 Eldorado Shuttle Bus ADA

38368

Step up your shuttle service with this 2017 Ford E350 Eldorado Shuttle Bus, engineered for reliable short-haul and guest transport operations. Featuring a robust 6.8L V-10 gas engine and durable construction, this fleet-ready vehicle is an exceptional choice for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, hospital systems, hospitality providers, and airport transport services. The 13-passenger capacity ensures comfortable travel for airplane travelers, hotel guests, community residents, and employees, while wheelchair accessibility expands inclusivity for all riders.

Ford’s reputation for reliability and dependability is evident in every detail of the E350 Eldorado. Eldorado’s proven shuttle bus body design offers smooth, secure rides and lasting value for your fleet. Designed for efficiency and comfort, this bus is ready to enhance your transportation program and elevate your guest experience.

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Mileage 179,000
Passengers 13
Year 2017

2025 Ford E450 Allstar Shuttle Bus ADA

38355

Experience the next level of shuttle service with the 2025 Ford E450 Allstar Shuttle Bus—engineered for reliability, comfort, and unmatched versatility. Built for short-haul guest transport and fleet-ready performance, this bus is ideally suited for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, hospital systems, hotels, airports, churches, and event organizers. It features a powerful 7.3L V-8 gas engine and accommodates up to 13 passengers, ensuring smooth and efficient group travel for airplane travelers, hotel guests, community residents, employees, and more.

With its advanced wheelchair access, the E450 Allstar provides inclusive transportation, making it perfect for assisted living facilities and healthcare environments. The solid white exterior offers a clean, professional appearance, ideal for executive transport or branded fleet use. Ford's reputation for durability and ease of maintenance ensures your investment delivers long-term value. Starcraft's Allstar body design is celebrated for its safety, comfort, and flexible floorplans, setting the benchmark in shuttle bus excellence.

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Mileage 1,000
Passengers 13
Year 2025

2025 Ford E450 Starcraft Allstar Shuttle Bus ADA

38294

Enhance your shuttle service with the 2025 Ford E450 Allstar Shuttle Bus, expertly designed to deliver top-tier guest transport for a wide range of organizations. With a robust 7.3L V-8 Gas engine and miles, this bus is fleet-ready for short-haul routes, making it a perfect addition for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, hospitals, hotels, and airports. The ADA-compliant wheelchair access ensures inclusivity for all passengers, supporting community residents, retirees, and hospital guests with ease. Passengers will appreciate the comfort, reliability, and efficiency of every journey—whether transporting airplane travelers, hotel guests, or college students.

Ford's reputation for durability and performance underpins the E450 platform, while Starcraft's commitment to passenger comfort and safety is evident in every detail. Together, they create a shuttle solution that elevates your service and meets modern transportation demands.

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Mileage 1,000
Passengers 13
Year 2025

2007 Ford E350 Goshen Shuttle Bus ADA

38288

Enhance your fleet operations with this versatile 2007 Ford E350 Goshen Shuttle Bus, purpose-built for reliable shuttle service and short-haul guest transport. With seating for up to 13 passengers and equipped with wheelchair access, this bus is ideally suited for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, hospital systems, hotels, and airport transport needs. The 6.0L V-8 gas engine delivers dependable performance, making it fleet-ready for a variety of transportation scenarios including airport runs, community outings, and executive transport. The solid white exterior creates a clean and professional appearance, perfect for branding and presenting a welcoming image to riders.

Ford is renowned for its robust engineering and long-lasting durability, ensuring peace of mind for operators. The Goshen body is known for its functionality and reliable craftsmanship, making it a trusted choice for passenger comfort and safety.

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Mileage 86,000
Passengers 13
Year 2007

2017 Ford E350 Shuttle Bus

38263

Introducing the 2017 Ford E350 Eldorado Shuttle Bus, a versatile and reliable choice for shuttle service operators and fleet managers. This bus, designed to accommodate up to 13 passengers, is ideal for short-haul transport of airplane travelers, tourists, hotel guests, and more. With its efficient 6.8L V-10 Gas engine and automatic transmission, it ensures smooth and dependable journeys every time.

Ford is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, making it a trusted brand for transportation needs. The Eldorado model stands out for its spacious interior and robust features.

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Mileage 136,000
Passengers 13
Year 2017

2016 Ford E450 Shuttle Bus

38258

Introducing the 2016 Ford E450, a versatile and reliable shuttle bus designed to meet the needs of various transport operations. With a focus on safety and comfort, this bus offers fleet-ready solutions for public and private schools, employee transport, and more. The E450's robust 6.8L V-10 Gas engine paired with an automatic transmission ensures a reliable chassis for all your transport needs. This bus accommodates 13 passengers and includes wheelchair access, making it ideal for inclusive transport requirements.

Ford, known for its commitment to quality and durability, delivers a low total cost of ownership (TCO) vehicle perfect for school transport and beyond. With its comprehensive safety package and ADA compliance, the Ford E450 stands out in its class.

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Mileage 77,000
Passengers 13
Year 2016

2025 Ford E350 Starcraft Allstar Shuttle Bus ADA

38246

Enhance your shuttle service fleet with the 2025 Ford E350 Starcraft Allstar Shuttle Bus, designed for reliable short-haul and guest transport. Perfectly suited for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, hospital systems, hotels, airports, churches, and event organizers, this fleet-ready vehicle provides spacious comfort for up to 13 passengers. With miles, the robust 7.3L V-8 Gas engine delivers dependable performance for daily routes and frequent stops, making it ideal for transporting airplane travelers, tourists, residents, and guests with ease.

Ford is known for building vehicles that combine durability with advanced engineering, and the Starcraft Allstar upfit adds superior passenger comfort and safety. This model exemplifies the reliability and longevity that Ford and Starcraft are renowned for in the transportation industry.

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Mileage 2,000
Passengers 13
Year 2025

2025 Ford E350 ADA Shuttle Bus

38242

Experience unparalleled transport efficiency with the 2025 Ford E350 Shuttle Bus. This state-of-the-art vehicle is designed for seamless shuttle service operations, offering a 13-passenger capacity alongside a fully automated wheelchair lift, ensuring inclusivity for all riders. The Ford E350 is perfect for short-haul, guest transport, and fleet-ready operations, ideal for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, hospitals, and more. With its robust 7.3L V-8 Gas engine and new condition, this bus ensures reliability and performance for all transportation needs.

Ford has long been revered for its commitment to quality and innovation in the automotive industry. The E350 model continues this legacy by providing advanced features and comfort for both drivers and passengers.

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Mileage 1,000
Passengers 13
Year 2025

2025 Ford E450 Starcraft Allstar Shuttle Bus ADA

38240

Experience the ultimate in guest transport and shuttle service with the 2025 Ford E450 Starcraft Allstar Shuttle Bus. Designed for fleet-ready efficiency and exceptional comfort, this versatile vehicle is ideal for retirement communities, hospital systems, hotels, airports, churches, and executive transport providers. With seating for 13 passengers, this bus offers an inviting interior, smooth ride, and easy boarding—perfect for airplane travelers, tourists, community residents, and hospital guests. The powerful 7.3L V-8 Gas engine ensures reliable short-haul performance and efficient operation, while wheelchair access provides inclusive service for all riders.

Ford's reputation for durability and innovation guarantees dependable operation and low maintenance for your fleet. Starcraft's commitment to quality and passenger comfort makes this bus a standout choice for any shuttle service.

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Mileage 2,000
Passengers 13
Year 2025

2017 Ford E350 ADA Shuttle Bus

38198

Discover the reliable and versatile 2017 Ford E350, a perfect addition to any fleet or transportation service. This gasoline-powered bus offers an automatic transmission and has been driven just 58,000 miles, ensuring many more miles of dependable performance. With seating for up to 14 passengers, it is ideal for shuttle services, group transport, or specialized mobility needs. The vehicle is ADA compliant, providing accessible transportation options for all passengers. Built with Ford’s renowned durability and ease of maintenance, this E350 combines practicality with comfort, making it a smart investment for operators seeking efficiency and reliability. Whether for corporate, educational, or community use, this bus delivers consistent performance and passenger comfort in a compact, easy-to-drive package.

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Mileage 58,000
Passengers 14
Year 2017

2015 Ford E-350 Shuttle Bus

38193

Introducing the 2015 Ford E-350 Shuttle Bus, a versatile and fleet-ready solution for shuttle service operations. With its reliable 5.4L V8 engine, this bus is designed to efficiently transport up to 12 passengers and is perfect for short-haul journeys. It's the ideal choice for shuttle fleet operators, hotels, airports, retirement communities, and more. The Ford E-350 offers rear air conditioning to ensure passenger comfort, alongside ample storage space behind the rear seat for luggage or equipment. This bus is not only practical but also built to handle the demands of daily guest transport, making it a valuable addition to any fleet.

Ford is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, ensuring that each vehicle is built to last. The E-350 model continues this legacy, providing exceptional performance and reliability.

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Mileage 80,000
Passengers 12
Year 2015

2026 Ford E350 Diamond Coach Vip 2200 Shuttle Bus

38103

The 2026 Diamond VIP 2200 Shuttle Bus is the perfect transport solution for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, and other organizations looking for reliable guest transport. Built on a robust Ford E-350 chassis, this bus is powered by a 7.3L V-8 gas engine paired with an automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride. With a passenger capacity of 14 plus the driver, it caters to a wide range of primary riders including tourists, hotel guests, and community residents.

Diamond is renowned for its quality and durability, and the VIP 2200 exemplifies these traits. Its stylish white exterior and comfortable gray interior create an inviting atmosphere for all passengers. The inclusion of dual 12V/USB chargers at every seat ensures convenience for travelers on the go, while the powerful rear A/C system keeps the environment comfortable. The bus also boasts a spacious dedicated rear luggage area and a reassuring 5-year/100,000-mile warranty.

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Passengers 14
Year 2026

2013 Ford Champion Challenger ADA Shuttle Bus

38003

The 2013 Ford Champion Challenger Shuttle Bus is your ultimate solution for reliable and efficient short-haul transportation. Designed to comfortably seat up to 13 passengers, this fleet-ready vehicle is perfect for shuttle service operators catering to diverse groups such as airplane travelers, tourists, hotel guests, and community residents. With its wheelchair-accessible feature, it offers added convenience for retirees and hospital guests, ensuring a smooth and accommodating journey for all. The Champion Challenger is built to meet the rigorous demands of shuttle service, making it an ideal choice for retirement communities, hospitals, and hotels.

Ford is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. The Champion Challenger continues this legacy by offering exceptional performance and reliability. Known for their durability and strength, Ford vehicles are a preferred choice for fleet operators worldwide.

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Passengers 13
Year 2013

2015 Ford Transit T-350 Shuttle Bus

37528

The 2015 Ford Transit T-350 Shuttle Bus is a reliable and versatile vehicle, perfect for shuttle service operators, retirement communities, and hospitality venues. With its ability to comfortably accommodate up to 11 passengers, it caters to the needs of airplane travelers, hotel guests, and community residents, making it a fleet-ready addition for short-haul and guest transport. Powered by a 3.5L V6 gas engine EcoBoost, this used shuttle bus boasts impressive performance and efficiency, ensuring smooth journeys across various terrains. The Transit T-350 is equipped with front and rear heating and air conditioning, guaranteeing passenger comfort regardless of the weather. Additionally, its ABS hydraulic brakes provide enhanced safety and control.

Ford, a brand renowned for its innovation and quality, has designed the Transit T-350 to deliver reliability and performance. Experience the dependability of Ford with this exceptional shuttle bus.

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Mileage 119,000
Passengers 11
Year 2015

2016 Ford Micro Bird School Bus

37526

Introducing the 2016 Blue Bird School Bus, a perfect blend of reliability and efficiency tailored for diverse transportation needs. With only 23,879 miles on its odometer, this fleet-ready vehicle stands as a testament to durability and low total cost of ownership (TCO). It is powered by a robust Ford 3.7L V6 engine, ensuring optimal performance for school transport and shuttle services. The automatic transmission and hydraulic braking system provide a smooth, secure ride for its 14 passengers, making it an ideal choice for public and private schools, daycare services, and employee transport.

Blue Bird is renowned for its commitment to quality and safety, offering a reliable chassis designed to withstand the demands of daily use. With its clean white exterior and comfortable gray interior, this school bus is ready to meet your fleet needs with unmatched dependability.

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Mileage 23,879
Passengers 14
Year 2016

2017 Elkhart Ecii Shuttle Bus

37511

The 2017 Elkhart ECII Shuttle Bus is the epitome of efficiency and reliability for all your shuttle service needs. Built on the robust Ford E-350 chassis, it is powered by a 6.8L V10 gas engine, ensuring consistent short-haul performance. With a seating capacity for 13 passengers plus the driver and co-pilot, this bus is ideal for guest transport, making it fleet-ready for various transport sectors. The dual rear wheels and ABS hydraulic brakes provide enhanced stability and safety, while the 60,000 BTU rear AC system ensures comfortable travel in any climate. The interior features padded vinyl walls and overhead luggage storage, making it perfect for transporting airplane travelers, tourists, and community residents.

Elkhart is renowned for its quality craftsmanship and durable vehicles, ensuring long-term satisfaction and dependable service. The ECII model stands as a testament to Elkhart's commitment to excellence in passenger transport solutions.

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Passengers 14
Year 2017

2018 Ford Worldtrans Shuttle Bus

37502

Introducing the 2018 Eldorado Worldtrans Shuttle Bus, a versatile and reliable choice for shuttle fleet operators, retirement communities, and more. This shuttle bus comfortably seats 14 passengers plus the driver, making it ideal for short-haul guest transport. Built on a robust Ford Transit T-350 chassis and powered by a 3.7L V-6 gas engine, it promises seamless performance and efficiency. The dedicated rear luggage space ensures that travelers' belongings are safely stowed, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Eldorado is renowned for its commitment to quality and durability, making it a trusted name in the transportation industry. With its sleek silver exterior and practical gray interior, the Worldtrans Shuttle Bus is both stylish and functional, ready to serve your transport needs.

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2021 Ford E350 Berkshire Coach Shuttle Bus

37457

The 2021 Berkshire U24 Shuttle Bus is the ideal solution for your shuttle service needs. Built on the sturdy and reliable Ford E-350 chassis, this bus is equipped with a robust 7.3L V8 gasoline engine, perfect for short-haul guest transport. With the capacity to comfortably seat 13 passengers along with the driver and co-pilot, this bus requires no CDL to operate, making it fleet-ready for any organization. Its dedicated rear luggage wall and rear A/C system with an impressive 80,000 BTU cooling capacity ensure both comfort and convenience for your passengers. Additionally, the ABS hydraulic brakes and clean interior add to the overall safety and aesthetic appeal of this reliable bus.

Berkshire is renowned for producing dependable and efficient transport solutions, and the U24 Shuttle Bus is no exception. With approximately 50,000 miles, it’s an excellent choice for shuttle fleet operators, hotels, churches, and more.

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Mileage 50,000
Passengers 13
Year 2021

1999 Ford Goshen E-350 ADA Shuttle Bus

37420

Discover a reliable transportation solution with the 1999 Ford Goshen E-350 ADA Shuttle Bus, designed for shuttle service and short-haul transport. This fleet-ready vehicle, with a mere 33,300 miles on the odometer, is ideal for transporting airplane travelers, tourists, hotel guests, community residents, retirees, employees, college students, and hospital guests. The V-8 Gas Engine paired with an automatic transmission ensures a powerful and smooth driving experience, while the hydraulic handicap lift facilitates easy wheelchair access, catering to all riders' needs.

Ford, a trusted name in the automotive industry, stands out with its commitment to quality and reliability. The Goshen E-350 model reflects these core values, making it a top choice for shuttle fleet operators and transport services.

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Mileage 33,300
Passengers 14
Year 1999

2018 Ford E-450 12P ADA Shuttle

37419

The 2018 Ford E450 12 Plassenger plus 2 wheel chair positions ADA Accessible Shuttle Bus with very low original miles. This is an excellent bus for any charity, retirement community, assisted living facility, fleet operator or any company looking to provide ada accessible transportation options. This bus has a Premium Body, overhead storage racks, a power entry door, LED interior lighting, back-up camera, audio system, arm rests, seat belts and more. The bus is equipped with easy wheelchair access, making it an excellent choice for retirement communities, assisted living, and hospital systems.

Ford is renowned for its reliable and durable vehicles, making it a trusted choice for transportation needs. The E-Series model upholds this reputation with its robust build and thoughtful design.

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Mileage 14,000
Passengers 12
Year 2018

2025 Ford Transit Driverge Passenger Van

37400

The 2025 Driverge Shuttle Bus, built on the robust Ford Transit T-350 chassis, is designed for optimal shuttle service, perfect for short-haul and guest transport. This fleet-ready vehicle boasts seating for 13 passengers plus the driver and co-pilot. The powerful 3.5L V6 engine and automatic transmission ensure a smooth and reliable ride, ideal for airport transport, hotel shuttles, or community services. The interior offers upgraded woodgrain flooring and a high-capacity rear AC, providing comfort for all passengers. Additionally, a rear luggage area with a divider enhances convenience for travelers.

Driverge is renowned for its innovative vehicle conversions, offering unparalleled quality and performance. The brand consistently delivers reliable transport solutions that cater to a wide range of needs.

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Passengers 13
Year 2025

2017 Ford Transit Starcraft Starlite Shuttle Bus

37385

Discover the reliable and versatile 2017 Ford Transit Starcraft Starlite, a perfect addition to any fleet or transportation service. This gasoline-powered bus offers a smooth automatic transmission and has been driven just 94,000 miles, ensuring many more dependable miles ahead. With seating for 14 passengers, it is ideal for small group transport, shuttle services, or corporate use. The Starcraft Starlite body provides durability and a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for operators seeking efficiency and ease of maintenance. While not ADA accessible, this model excels in straightforward, cost-effective passenger transport. Its compact size combined with robust Ford engineering makes it easy to maneuver in urban and suburban environments. Invest in a vehicle that balances performance, capacity, and value for your transportation needs.

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Mileage 94,000
Passengers 14
Year 2017

2016 Ford Econoline Commercial ADA Shuttle Bus

37381

Transport your guests with ease and comfort with the 2016 Ford Econoline Commercial Shuttle Bus. Engineered for reliability, this shuttle bus is equipped with a powerful 5.4L V8 engine, ensuring robust performance for short-haul trips and guest transport operations. The automatic transmission provides seamless handling, making it fleet-ready for shuttle service operators. Designed to accommodate 13 passengers, this shuttle bus also features easy wheelchair accessibility, making it an inclusive choice for retirement communities, hospital systems, and events.

Ford is renowned for its durability and innovative engineering, ensuring every journey is smooth and efficient. With a reputation for building dependable vehicles, Ford continues to be a trusted brand in the transportation industry.

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Mileage 68,043
Passengers 13
Year 2016
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Which Mini Bus Is Right for You?

Mini buses cover more use cases than any other bus category on the lot. Whether you're spending the congregation's budget or sourcing transport for drop-off morning, your right fit depends on passenger count, driver licensing, and whether you need ADA access. Here's how the main buyer types stack up.

Mini bus buyer-fit matrix by use case
Buyer TypeRecommended SizeTypical Budget (Used)Key Consideration
Church / nonprofitSmall to mid (8–20 passengers)$8,000 – $22,000Non-CDL operability is critical — stay under 26,001 lbs GVWR and 15 passengers to avoid CDL requirement. Low mileage and clean interior matter for congregation perception.
Daycare / schoolSmall to mid (8–20 passengers)$10,000 – $25,000Parents judge the vehicle on drop-off morning — prioritize clean presentation, seatbelts, and visible safety features. Confirm your state's child transport licensing rules before purchase.
Camps / youth programsMid to large mini (15–30 passengers)$12,000 – $30,000Durability over aesthetics — expect rough road use and frequent loading. Storage capacity and seating flexibility matter more than interior finish. Confirm CDL requirement above 15 passengers.
Senior transportMid (14–20 passengers), low-floor preferred$15,000 – $35,000ADA lift or low-floor boarding is often required — budget an additional $5,000–$12,000 for a factory-installed wheelchair lift if not already equipped. Kneeling suspension and Q'Straint securement systems add usability for mobility-impaired riders.
ADA / accessibility operatorMid to large mini (14–30 passengers), lift-equipped$18,000 – $40,000Confirm lift capacity (600 lb minimum for power chairs), securement track count, and ADA compliance with your funding source requirements. Low-floor transit-style bodies reduce lift travel and improve boarding speed.

Mini Bus Capacity and Specifications

Mini buses don't follow a federal type classification the way school buses do — your sizing is defined by passenger count and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR — the maximum safe loaded weight). The GVWR you choose determines whether your driver needs a CDL, which affects your entire operating model.

Mini bus size classes: capacity, length, GVWR, CDL requirement, and used price range
Size ClassPassenger CapacityTypical LengthGVWR ClassCDL Required?Used Price Range
Small mini bus8 – 14 passengers18 – 22 ftUnder 14,500 lbs (Class 4–5)No CDL required in most states$8,000 – $20,000
Mid-size mini bus15 – 20 passengers22 – 28 ft14,501 – 26,000 lbs (Class 5–6)CDL Class B required above 26,000 lbs GVWR — verify by vehicle$12,000 – $28,000
Large mini bus21 – 30 passengers28 – 35 ftOver 26,000 lbs (Class 6–7)CDL Class B + P endorsement required$18,000 – $40,000

CDL rules vary by state and by whether you're transporting passengers for compensation. Confirm requirements with your state DMV before purchase. ADA-equipped units in any size class may add $5,000–$12,000 to your budget.

Mini Bus Body Styles Explained

Cutaway / Van-Conversion on Ford E450 or E350 Chassis. The most common mini bus you'll find in used inventory. A bus body is bolted to a Ford E450 (up to 14,500 lbs GVWR) or E350 (up to 11,500 lbs GVWR) cutaway chassis — the cab is kept, and the rear is replaced by a purpose-built passenger compartment. You get 8–14 seats, a manageable footprint, and non-CDL operation in most configurations. The Ford chassis means parts are widely available and mechanics are easy to find in almost any market.

Best for: churches needing Sunday transport, daycares running daily pickup routes, and small camp programs. ADA lift kits are available as factory or aftermarket options on both E450 and E350 platforms — confirm lift capacity and securement before you buy a pre-equipped unit.

Body-on-Chassis (Conventional Mini Bus). A heavier-duty option where a full bus body is mounted on a medium-duty truck chassis — typically Chevrolet 4500/5500, Ford F-550, or similar Class 5–6 platforms. You get 15–30 seats and a more substantial structure than a cutaway, with better noise isolation and a longer service life under heavy use. GVWR commonly runs 19,000–26,000 lbs, which straddles the CDL threshold — verify the specific vehicle before you assume non-CDL operation. Starcraft and Champion produce the majority of used inventory in this class.

Best for: camp programs running rougher routes, senior transport operators who need durability, and corporate shuttle fleets with high annual mileage. ADA lift options are standard across most body-on-chassis builders — look for Q'Straint or Sure-Lok securement tracks and a 600 lb minimum lift capacity for power wheelchairs.

Low-Floor / Transit-Style Mini Bus. Transit-style mini buses use a flat floor with minimal or no step entry — the same boarding profile as a city bus. The floor sits 6–12 inches lower than a conventional body-on-chassis unit, which reduces lift travel distance and speeds up boarding for wheelchair users and ambulatory seniors. You'll find these less often in used inventory than cutaways or body-on-chassis units, but availability is growing as municipal fleets retire recent-generation vehicles.

Best for: ADA and senior transport operators where boarding speed and accessibility compliance are your primary requirements. If your operation receives federal or state funding, low-floor transit-style bodies often satisfy ADA requirements more cleanly than lift-equipped van conversions. See the ADA-compliant bus buying guide for lift specification and securement requirements before you purchase.

Popular Mini Bus Makes

Most used mini buses you'll find in this category are built on a Ford E450 or E350 cutaway chassis by body builders including Glaval, Starcraft, Champion, and ElDorado. When you're evaluating a specific unit, search by the body builder name alongside the chassis — parts and service follow the Ford chassis, while interior components and structural history follow the body builder.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a used mini bus cost?

Used mini bus prices range from $8,000 for older small cutaways to $40,000 for late-model, low-mileage large-mini units with ADA lifts. If you're targeting a well-maintained 14-passenger Ford E450 cutaway in the 100,000–150,000 mile range, expect to pay $12,000–$20,000. ADA-equipped units in any size class add $5,000– $12,000 to your budget for the lift system alone.

Do I need a CDL to drive a mini bus?

Not necessarily. If your mini bus has a GVWR under 26,001 lbs and carries 15 or fewer passengers, most states don't require a CDL — making the Ford E450 cutaway class the practical choice for non-CDL operators. Above either threshold, you'll need a CDL Class B with a Passenger (P) endorsement. Always confirm with your state DMV, as rules for compensated transport vary by state.

Can a mini bus be equipped with a wheelchair lift?

Yes — most body-on-chassis and low-floor mini buses support factory or aftermarket ADA lift installations. Look for a lift rated at a minimum 600 lb capacity (required for most power wheelchairs), Q'Straint or Sure-Lok securement tracks, and adequate floor space for the securement position. Buying a pre-equipped unit is almost always cheaper than retrofitting — expect $8,000–$15,000 for a new lift installation.

Is diesel or gas better for a mini bus?

Diesel is the better choice if you're running high annual mileage — better fuel economy, longer engine life, and higher resale value. Gas (typically Ford E450 / E350 with a 7.3L or 6.8L V10) costs less upfront and is cheaper to service in markets without diesel mechanics. If your operation runs 10,000–20,000 miles annually — typical for a church or daycare — a gas cutaway is usually the more practical buy.

How long does a mini bus last?

A well-maintained gas mini bus on a Ford E450 chassis typically runs 150,000–200,000 miles before major drivetrain work. Diesel body-on-chassis units regularly reach 250,000–300,000 miles. Body and interior condition often determines retirement before the powertrain does — inspect floors, roof seams, and lift mechanisms (if equipped) as carefully as you inspect the engine.

What's the difference between a mini bus and a passenger van?

A passenger van (Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster) seats 8–15 in a unibody vehicle with car-like ride and handling — no CDL required, lower purchase price, but limited durability under daily use. A mini bus uses a purpose-built bus body on a truck chassis: more durable, more serviceable, and better suited to multiple daily cycles. If you're running more than occasional group transport, the mini bus holds up significantly better over time.

Ready to Find Your Mini Bus?

Browse the full inventory of used mini buses available now — filtered by passenger capacity, state, price, and ADA configuration.

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