The Luton is largest by load volume at 17.1m³ and also has the largest published load-area dimensions.
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Choosing the right van is mainly about four things: load volume, usable length, door opening and payload. The biggest-looking van is not automatically the best choice, and the highest-volume van does not necessarily have the highest payload.
Alco Van Hire size comparison
| 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.
Useful distinction: the Luton has the greatest volume at 17.1m³, but the LWB has the highest published payload at 1,192kg. If your load is dense or heavy, payload can matter more than cubic capacity.
SWB Transit: 6.2m³
The SWB is the easiest of Alco’s three vans to manage when you do not need a long or high load area. Its internal load length is 2,495mm, with 1,745mm width and 1,430mm height. It can suit smaller moves, boxes, compact furniture and local collections.
LWB Transit: 11.0m³
The LWB adds almost 0.9m of usable load length over the SWB and substantially more internal height. At 3,399mm long and 1,855mm high internally, it is often a better choice for flat moves, longer furniture and larger mixed loads. Its published payload is 1,192kg.
Luton tail lift: 17.1m³
The 3.5-tonne Luton has the largest body: 3,910mm long, 2,020mm wide and 2,160mm high inside. Its rear opening is 1,890mm by 1,930mm and the tail lift has a published 450kg capacity. This makes it Alco’s strongest option for bulky house-moving loads.
What Can You Fit in a Van?
The examples below are intentionally cautious. Furniture varies enormously, so “yes” means the item is commonly compatible with the general size of the van, not a guarantee that your exact item will fit.
| Item or job | SWB | LWB | Luton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boxes / archive boxes | Good for smaller quantities | Good for larger quantities | Very high volume |
| Washing machine / tumble dryer | Usually practical if secured | Usually practical | Usually practical; tail lift may help |
| Armchair | Often, measure first | Generally easier | Generally easier |
| Sofa | Measure carefully; door height may be limiting | Often suitable, measure first | Most accommodating |
| Double mattress | Measure and consider orientation | More practical | Most space |
| Dismantled bed frame | Often suitable | Good for longer components | Good |
| Student move | Often sufficient for a compact move | Good for larger student moves | Usually only needed for substantial/shared moves |
| Flat move | Possible for a small/minimal move | Strong option | More capacity and fewer trips |
| House move | Limited unless very small load | Possible for smaller households | Alco’s best option for bulky loads |
How to check a difficult item
- Measure the item in millimetres.
- Measure after dismantling removable legs, shelves or frames if safe to do so.
- Compare with the rear-door width and height.
- Then compare with internal length, width and height.
- Consider whether it can actually be rotated through the opening.
- Check weight and the vehicle payload.
If a measurement is critical, confirm it with Alco before booking.
Van-size FAQs
Which Alco van is biggest?
Which Alco van can carry the most weight?
By published payload, the LWB is highest at 1,192kg, compared with 1,150kg for the Luton and 869kg for the SWB.
Which van has the longest load area?
The Luton at 3,910mm. The LWB is 3,399mm and the SWB is 2,495mm.
Will my sofa fit?
Measure the actual sofa and compare it with both the rear opening and internal load area. Do not rely on the word “sofa” alone because designs vary widely.
Does the Luton tail lift increase the van payload?
No. The tail lift is equipment for raising and lowering suitable loads. The van still has its own overall payload limit, published by Alco as 1,150kg.
GET A QUOTE
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Once you have an idea which van size you need, enter your proposed collection and return details below to check the current price and vehicle availability.
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.
