A Guide to Removal Van Sizes

Medium wheelbase (MWB) vans are the most commonly used removal vans across the UK. The models you’re likely to encounter are the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter.

MWB vans are usually ply-lined and have an easy loading platform and high roof, making the moving process more efficient. They are often cheaper than other vehicles as they are fairly small and are used when moving flats or apartments. They are very popular amoung student movers.

These types of removal vans are best suited to small moves, with enough space for the personal belongings of 1 or 2 people. Depending on the specific size and model, a typical MWB van can fit 30-40 moving boxes with an average loading capacity of 280-380 cubic feet.

Long wheelbase (LWB) vans are slightly larger and are available with either a high or low roof. They are also known as ‘Jumbo Transits’ or ‘Jumbo Sprinters’.

This type of removal van is ideal for moving 1-2-bedroom flats. The specific dimensions will depend on the exact make and model your chosen removal company uses.

LWB vans typically have a loading capacity of 380-530 cubic feet. They can carry a range of white goods and/or several pieces of furniture. LWB vans can fit approximately 30-40 boxes alongside these other items, depending on the specific dimensions. Without other items, these removal vans could hold up to 50 boxes.

Luton vans are very popular amongst removal companies, especially 3.5 Tonne Luton Vans. They’re not drastically bigger than LWB vans but they have a loading capacity of around 550 cubic feet.

Many removal teams favour Luton vans as they often have a tail lift to help with the loading. They are also narrow enough to easily manoeuvre narrow streets. This is why they are especially popular when moving in London.

3.5 Tonne Luton Vans are used for a small house move or for moving a 1-2-bedroom flat. They can fit around 45 boxes as well as other furniture. Without other items, these removal vans could hold up to 60 moving boxes.

A 7.5 tonne Luton van is built exactly like a 3.5 tonne Luton van but on a bigger scale. They have a loading capacity of approximately 880-650 cubic feet and can store 40-80 moving boxes. Luton vans of this size are used for 3-bedroom house moves or for office relocations.

Whilst they are usually the largest vehicle a removals company will have, they are still compact enough to move through narrow spaces. However, if you’re moving anything bigger than a 4-bed property, you might require more than one vehicle.

This type of insurance covers physical vehicles. It’s a legal requirement for any removal van and for the transportation of goods for monetary reward. It can be expensive but it’s a necessity for any moving company.

This insurance will cover the cost of goods and the property while everything is being moved. The maximum amount for this cost is around £10,000.

Removal companies are not legally required to purchase Goods in Transit insurance so it’s vital you ask for further information.

Every partner that enters the Compare My Move network must first be put through our strict verification process - part of this process is providing evidence of this type of insurance cover. The company must provide our team with the relevant documents showing they have both Goods in Transit insurance and Public Liability insurance.