The Ultimate Guide to Luton Vans
In this article, we look at what Luton vans are, their features and uses, and how to find the right one for you.
- Luton vans are a type of large van, also known as box vans and Luton peak vans. Their name comes from the plant where the earliest models were produced in the town of Luton, Bedfordshire.
- They are typically used by removal and delivery companies, clearance services, and more thanks to their size and payload.
- A distinctive feature of Luton vans is the peaked front that extends over the driver’s cabin offering more storage.
- Many standard Luton vans also come with an integrated tail lift to make loading and unloading easier.
Table of Contents
2. What are the features of a Luton box van?
3. What are Luton vans used for?
4. Sizes and dimensions for Luton vans
5. Loading and unloading with Luton vans
6. Top 5 Luton vans at Vansdirect
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Luton vans
Searching for a large van that offers plenty of loading and cargo space for your needs? You might have considered a Luton van, or Luton box van.
But how do you know which Luton van is right for you? Read on for the ultimate guide to Luton vans.
What is a Luton van?
Luton vans are a type of large van, often recognised by the peaked front which extends over the cabin area.
The name ‘Luton’ comes from the plant where the first models were produced, in Luton, Bedfordshire. Originally a product of the Bedford Vehicles company, these box vans went on to become widely used by the British military during World War Two.
With their large proportions and excellent loading, they are a go-to across many industries today. Great for transporting light, high-volume loads.
What are the features of a Luton box van?
Luton vans can be clearly distinguished from other types of vans. Firstly, they are based on a 3.5 tonne large van, which is about as big as you’ll find in this category.
Other features of Luton vans include:
- Peaked front over the driver’s cab
- Tail lift for loading and unloading heavier items
- Roller shutter door to access load area
- Lightweight chassis made using strong reinforced plastic/fibreglass
- Larger windscreen and wing mirrors for improved road visibility
- Comfortable cabin to seat up to three people
Some Luton box vans are also available with a lower load height of around 550mm. A ramp can then be added for more efficient loading and unloading, ideal for moving large, heavy furniture items.
What are Luton vans used for?
Due to their large volume and storage capacity, Luton vans are suitable for a wide range of uses. They are typically used by:
- Furniture removal and haulage companies
- Clearance services
- Garden centres
- Goods transportation services
- Catering companies
- And more!
Sizes and dimensions for Luton vans
Luton van dimensions will vary depending on the specific model you choose. Generally, Luton vans tend to have an interior length of 6m along the flat loading floor. Load height is usually from around 2,200mm, while length sits at around 4,000mm, and width at around 2,000mm.
There are two choices when it comes to size, including L3 and L4 options. As for which Luton van is right for you, this will depend entirely on your needs. Note that if you choose a Luton van with a tail lift, this will reduce your payload by around 250kg.
Loading and unloading with Luton vans
When it comes to loading and unloading, Luton vans are well-prepared for the task at hand. With a low loader box van, you’ll be able to step straight up into the loading area to access your cargo, while a ramp can be used to slide heavier items in or out.
Many new Luton vans are fitted with a tail lift as standard, allowing you to easily raise the lift up and down to load or unload heavier, more fragile items. This helps save your back, preventing you from trying to heave heavy items in and out of the back, which could cause you an injury.
With their generous cargo space inside, new Luton vans can carry a large volume when it comes to getting your goods where they need to go. The larger 7.5-tonne models can fit in around 40-50 boxes, a couple of sofas, beds, a dining room set, and more.
You’ll be able to transport everything you need in one go without having to make multiple trips. A welcome bonus!
Top 5 new Luton vans at Vansdirect
Now you know all about the features and benefits of new Luton vans and their uses, what kind of Luton vans are there?
We’ve rounded up our top five picks at Vansdirect to give you some inspiration.
1. Citroen Relay Luton van
The Citroen Relay Luton van is a practical all-rounder featuring fully enclosed bodywork and a high volume capacity.
The extended front end of the van can be used to store small light items, while the rounded design helps improve aerodynamics.
Features of the Citroen Relay Luton van:
- Rectangular load floor ideal for palletised loads
- Robust construction with galvanised steel and aluminium frame
- Protective kick strip fitted to the front bulkhead
- Birch plywood flooring
- Load locking strips and tie rails
- LED interior light
- Adjustable seat
- Writing panel
- Thirteen interior storage spaces
2. Peugeot Boxer Luton van
The Peugeot Boxer Luton van also offers a high volume capacity, fully enclosed interior, and a rectangular load floor.
Features of the Peugeot Boxer Luton van:
- Protective kick strip at the front bulkhead
- Load locking strips and tie rails
- Birch plywood flooring
- Optional 500kg capacity tail lift and rear barn doors
- External marker lights
- Optional load lock tracks, tie rails and load lashing rings
- Aerodynamic pod over the cab
- Galvanised steel and aluminium frame
3. Vauxhall Movano Luton van
The Vauxhall Movano Luton conversion is great for transporting dry freight or secure loads. It features a solid aluminium construction with lightweight body options for increased payload.
Features of the Vauxhall Movano Luton van:
- Wide lath rear shutter door with slam-shut lock
- Four-tier load restraint system
- Birch plywood load deck
- Grab handle and fold-out rear step
- Swivelling interior spot lamp
- Rear mud flaps
- Zinc plating to protect against salt spray
- Optional 500kg tail lift
- Optional telescopic load restraint poles
View Vauxhall Movano Luton vans
4. Ford Transit Luton van
As the third best-selling van of all time, the Ford Transit van has been a go-to in the commercial van sector. The Luton conversion brings a range of fantastic features to your workday, including:
- Efficient 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine
- Payload of up to 1,061kg
- 8” infotainment touchscreen
- Ford Sync3 software
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Side Wind Stabilisation
- Roll Stability Control
- In-cabin storage solutions
- Comfortable, adjustable seats
5. Volkswagen Crafter Luton van
The Volkswagen Crafter Luton is both practical and reliable - just like its award-winning predecessor. It features a comfortable cab, convenient load restraints, and upgraded suspension.
Features of the Volkswagen Crafter Luton van:
- Lightweight sides and bulkhead with no visible fixings
- Bolted rear frame, dip painted and powder coated
- Unique Ingimex four-tier load restraint system
- High-strength Ingimex shutter
- Reinforced bottom plank
- Standard rear footstep
- 360-degree rotating spot lamp
- Optional tail lift available
- Full-height grab handle
View Volkswagen Crafter Luton vans
Shop Luton vans for sale at Vansdirect
Ready to find your new Luton van? At Vansdirect, we have a range of new Luton vans for sale to explore. With our flexible finance packages, it’s never been easier to find the right Luton van for you at the right price. Choose from Hire Purchase, Contract Hire, or Van Leasing.
For more information or some helpful advice, get in touch with our friendly team and we’ll be happy to assist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Luton vans
What are the benefits of a Luton van?
Luton vans offer several benefits when it comes to keeping your business moving. You’ll enjoy:
- Generous payload for improved loading capacity
- Convenient storage solutions
- Robust, high-quality construction
- Lightweight body options available for greater payload
- Lower load height options for easier access
- Ramps and steps available for your convenience
What is the difference between a van and a Luton van?
Typically, it is the peaked pod or front end of Luton vans that set them apart from normal vans. Luton vans are also much larger when it comes to size, giving them a greater payload for transporting heavier goods.
What is the difference between a low loader and a Luton?
As its name suggests, a low loader has a lower loading height of around 550mm, compared to a standard Luton van. This makes it easier to access the loading area, saving you from hauling heavier items up a ramp.
Do I need an O license for a Luton van?
No, you don’t need an O license to drive a Luton van. According to government guidance, you can drive a van up to 3,500kg on a standard car driving license.
You may have to take further tests before driving vehicles weighing between 3,500kg – 7,500kg or to tow a trailer with the van. If the van weighs more than 3,500kg or a van and trailer together exceed 1,525kg, you’ll need a goods vehicle operator license.