This size of van offers a lot more flexibility and space in terms of load. They are one of the most popular types of vans to hire. A short wheelbase Ford Transit or similar will have a load space of around 2.4m, meaning that eight foot lengths of timber and standard 8×4 sheets of plasterboard will fit comfortably.

There’s also more headroom, usually a minimum of 1.4m, or more for a high roof model. This means some larger items can be stood upright. Alternatively you should be able to fit several dozen removal boxes, depending on their size and how easily they can be stacked. Remember they need to stay stable and not get crushed.

If you’re hiring a van to move furniture, then a medium van may be big enough for dining tables (up to 8ft) and most wardrobes, sideboards and dressers. Mattresses and bed frames should also fit. You’ll probably be able to carry two armchairs, or possibly one sofa. But if you need to move sofas, then we suggest checking sizes. Some sofas are very large and a medium van could still be too short.

Internal Dimensions                                           

Length: 2.4m
Width: 1.7m
Height: 1.4m or 1.65m with medium roof

Payload

800kg-1,400kg

Typical fuel consumption (mpg)

30-40mpg

Seats (inc driver)

2

A long wheelbase van is more likely to have a high roof, so you’ll get extra height as well as extra length. The load area is usually around 3.5m-4m long on this type of van, meaning that pretty much any item of household furniture should fit. Indeed, you’re likely to be able to fit a number of boxes, a couple of sofas and some other items in a van of this size.

For a one-bedroom flat move, a long wheelbase van may be big enough. It depends how much furniture and how many white goods you need to move. If you’re doing the move yourself, then consider measuring some of your stuff and working out how it might fit in, using the example van sizes on the right of this page.

It’s important to remember that not everything can be stacked safely.

Internal Dimensions

Length: 3.5-4m
Width: 1.7m
Height: 1.7m

Payload

1,000kg-1,200kg

Typical fuel consumption (mpg)

28-35mpg

Seats (inc driver)

3

Extra-long vans are popular with couriers and light haulage firms for the incredible amount of space they offer. These vans usually have a high roof and the load area is likely to be 4.5m-5m long. This size of van is also popular with carpet fitters, as entire rolls of carpet can be fitted safely inside.

For home removals, the main advantage of extra-long vans is the extra space they offer. A van this size should be big enough for a small flat, unless you have a lot of furniture. The extra load length provides more space to fit bulky items of furniture and large appliances along with your removal boxes.

One word of warning – these larger vans can’t usually carry any more weight than a smaller long wheelbase model. So if you’re transporting something heavy, such as building supplies, you may not be able to use all of the extra space without being over the legal weight limit.

More information about extra long vans

Internal Dimensions

Length: 4-5m
Width: 1.7m
Height: 1.8m

Payload

1,000kg-1,200kg

Typical fuel consumption (mpg)

22-30mpg

Seats (inc driver)

3