Van sizes explained — from small transit to 7.5 tonne lorry. Which van fits a 1-bed flat, 2-bed house, 3-bed house and 4-bed home.
Choosing the wrong size van is one of the most common moving mistakes. Too small and you're making multiple trips. Too large and you're paying for empty space. Here's how to get it right.
A small (short-wheelbase) van holds around 5–6 cubic metres and suits a single room or a few items. A long-wheelbase Transit-type van holds around 10–12 cubic metres and suits a studio or small 1-bedroom flat. A Luton van is a box van whose load area extends over the cab, usually with a tail lift; it holds around 17–20 cubic metres (600–700 cubic feet) and suits a 1–2 bedroom home. A 7.5-tonne lorry holds around 30–40 cubic metres and suits a 3–4 bedroom house.
As a rough guide: a studio or 1-bedroom flat is around 10–15 cubic metres, so a long-wheelbase van or a Luton van. A 2-bedroom home is around 15–25 cubic metres, so a Luton van, sometimes two loads. A 3-bedroom house is around 25–35 cubic metres, so usually a 7.5-tonne lorry. A 4-bedroom house is around 35–45 cubic metres, so a 7.5-tonne lorry or larger — very large moves may need two vehicles.
The number of bedrooms is a starting point but it's not the whole story. A 2-bedroom flat packed with books, a piano and a large sofa collection may need a larger van than a 3-bedroom house being moved by a minimalist couple. Mention large or unusual items (pianos, pool tables, motorbikes, large gym equipment) when getting quotes.
Man and van services use smaller vans and are typically suited to 1–2 bedroom moves. For anything larger, or if you have valuable or heavy items, a professional removal company with a large vehicle and an experienced crew is usually more cost-effective when you factor in the number of trips and the risk of damage.
Our free van size selector gives you a rough guide based on your property size and any extra items. No sign-up required. Your removal company will confirm the right size, usually after a survey.
Browse removal companies on Cubic — free, no account needed.