Finding the right vehicle is easy with our van size guide to help you match the right van to your specific job. Whether you’re moving house, transporting stock, or collecting materials for a DIY project, the wrong size van can lead to wasted time, extra trips, or even damage to your items.
In this article, we break down the most common van sizes available at Brierley Hill Self Drive and how to choose the one that suits your needs.
Why Van Size Matters
Before hiring, it’s important to consider not just how much space you think you need, but how much your load will realistically require. Too small, and you’ll waste time with multiple journeys. Too large, and you’ll struggle with manoeuvrability or parking, especially in tighter areas like central Birmingham or Dudley.
With the right van size, you can load safely, drive comfortably, and complete the job in fewer trips.
Small Vans – Ideal for Light Loads
Best for: Small item collections, tool transport, or local deliveries.
These compact vans offer excellent fuel economy and are easy to park. If you’re picking up a few boxes, tools, or flat-pack furniture, this size is often enough. Many tradespeople also use them to carry equipment between sites.
Typical dimensions:
- Load length: ~1.5m
- Load volume: 3–4m³
- Payload: ~600–800kg
If you’re nervous about driving larger vehicles or just need a quick run-around, this is a safe bet.
Medium Vans – The Versatile All-Rounder
Best for: Student moves, eBay pickups, small business deliveries.
Medium vans strike a great balance between load space and driveability. They’re perfect for jobs where you have a bit more cargo but don’t want the bulk of a Luton or long-wheelbase van. These vehicles are the most commonly hired for everyday use.
Typical dimensions:
- Load length: ~2.4m
- Load volume: 5–6m³
- Payload: ~900–1,200kg
If you’re moving multiple boxes, a washing machine, or medium-sized furniture, this van should suit you well.
Large Vans – For Big Jobs and Bulky Items
Best for: House moves, heavy items, small events.
When space is a priority, large vans such as long-wheelbase (LWB) or extra-long-wheelbase (XLWB) models are ideal. They have enough room for large furniture, white goods, or even stacks of stock for retail and event setups.
Typical dimensions:
- Load length: ~3.5–4.0m
- Load volume: 10–14m³
- Payload: ~1,200–1,400kg
If you're moving out of a one-bedroom flat or transporting bulky goods for business, a large van ensures fewer journeys and more convenience.
Luton Vans – Maximum Space with a Tail Lift Option
Best for: Full house moves, event equipment, or bulky, heavy loads.
Luton vans offer a box-shaped cargo area that maximises usable space. They're ideal when you need height as well as floor space. The optional tail lift makes loading heavy items like sofas or appliances far easier and safer.
Typical dimensions:
- Load length: ~4.0m
- Load volume: 17–19m³
- Payload: ~1,000–1,200kg
These are popular with professional movers and event teams and are especially useful if you're loading from ground level without help.
How to Choose the Right Van for You
Here are some quick tips to help guide your choice:
- Moving a small room or a few items? Go for a small or medium van.
- Relocating from a flat or small house? Opt for a large van.
- Handling a full home move or exhibition gear? Choose a Luton van.
- Not sure? Call our team, and we’ll walk you through it.
Don’t Forget: Payload and Volume Are Different
It’s easy to think in terms of “space,” but don’t forget about weight. A van might look big enough, but every vehicle has a legal payload limit. Overloading a van can result in fines, mechanical issues, or invalid insurance.
Use our van size guide to judge both volume and weight realistically based on your job.
Still Unsure? Let Us Help You Decide
At Brierley Hill Self Drive, we know van sizing isn’t always simple. That’s why our team is always happy to help you find the right vehicle. If you're unsure, bring a quick list of the items you plan to carry, and we’ll match you with the best fit, saving you time and money.