Some will, some will not. The SWB load area is 2,495mm long, 1,745mm wide and 1,430mm high, with a rear opening of 1,540mm by 1,350mm. Measure the actual sofa before booking.
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Collecting a sofa, bed, wardrobe, appliance or marketplace purchase is one of the easiest jobs to underestimate. The key is not just load volume: the item has to pass through the rear door and sit safely inside the usable load area.
Measure before you book
- Measure the item’s longest, widest and highest dimensions.
- Decide whether it can be dismantled safely.
- Compare the item with the van’s rear-door opening, not only the internal load space.
- Allow room to angle the item through the door where necessary.
- Consider the weight and whether more than one person is needed to load it.
Alco van dimensions for furniture collection
| Van | Load volume | Payload | Load area (L × W × H) | Rear opening (W × H) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWB Ford Transit | 6.2m³ | 869kg | 2,495 × 1,745 × 1,430mm | 1,540 × 1,350mm |
| LWB Ford Transit | 11.0m³ | 1,192kg | 3,399 × 1,745 × 1,855mm | 1,540 × 1,796mm |
| 3.5-tonne Luton tail lift | 17.1m³ | 1,150kg | 3,910 × 2,020 × 2,160mm | 1,890 × 1,930mm |
Dimensions, payloads and capacities are a guide. If a measurement or capacity is critical to your job, please confirm it with Alco before booking or loading.
For long flat-pack packs, bed frames and larger furniture, the LWB’s 3,399mm load length can be especially useful. For bulky items, the Luton gives the widest and highest rear opening of the three.
Common collection jobs
Sofas and armchairsMeasure width, depth and height, and remember that arms or feet may make the item difficult to rotate through a door.
Beds and mattressesDismantle frames where possible. Mattresses need to fit within the load area without being forced into a damaging position.
AppliancesCheck weight as well as size. Some appliances must be transported upright or handled according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
Collecting from a shop or private seller
Confirm the collection window, exact address and loading access before you leave. If the seller says an item “fits in a van”, still obtain measurements: van sizes vary substantially.
Use What Can You Fit in a Van? for practical examples.
Furniture collection FAQs
Will a sofa fit in an SWB Transit?
Which van has the largest rear door?
The Luton has the largest published rear opening at 1,890mm wide by 1,930mm high.
Can I use the Luton tail lift for furniture?
The tail lift can help with suitable bulky or heavy items and has a published 450kg capacity. The item still needs to be handled safely and the van payload must not be exceeded.
Can I hire a van just for a few hours?
Alco currently advertises weekday four-hour offers on SWB and LWB vans, subject to availability and the special-offer terms.
Is there a deposit?
we charge no deposit on its standard van hire.
GET A QUOTE
Get a van hire quote for a furniture collection
Enter your proposed collection and return details below to check the current price and vehicle availability for your furniture or appliance collection.
If the price and availability suit you, you can continue through the same secure system to make your reservation. If you have a more complex hire requirement and need a full quotation, please contact Alco.
