A Luton van is a large van with a square, box-shaped load body that extends forward over the driver’s cab. That overcab section is what sets it apart from a panel van like a Transit. They’re commonly built at 3,500kg gross vehicle weight, so you can drive one on a standard car licence, and many have a tail lift at the back. The name is generally linked to Luton in Bedfordshire.
How big is a Luton van?
It depends on the model and the body fitted, but most offer somewhere around 17 to 20 cubic metres of load space. As one example, Volkswagen gives its Crafter Luton a load volume of 16.99m³. The flat walls and square shape mean more of that space is usable than in a panel van with wheel arches.
How heavy is a Luton van, and how much can it carry?
Lutons are commonly plated at 3,500kg, which is the maximum authorised mass: the van plus the heaviest load it can safely carry. GOV.UK’s guide to vehicle weights explains that these figures are shown on a plate or sticker on the vehicle.
Because the box body is heavy, a Luton’s payload is lower than people expect. Volkswagen quotes approximately 882kg for a Crafter Luton without a tail lift and approximately 740kg with one. Other models differ, so check the plate or the manufacturer’s figures for the specific van. Bulky furniture usually fills the space before it reaches the weight limit, but boxes of books and tiles can get there quickly.
Can you drive a Luton van on a car licence?
Usually, yes. A category B licence covers petrol and diesel vehicles up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass (4,250kg for electric vehicles), according to GOV.UK’s driving licence categories. A heavier Luton needs a C1 licence. Our guide to the 3.5 tonne van explains the limit.
Do Luton vans have a tail lift?
Many do. A tail lift raises heavy items from the ground to the load floor, which helps with fridge freezers and washing machines. It also adds weight, which is why the payload drops when one is fitted.
Luton vans at The Van Man Co
On our quotes, the Luton is the XL option, at around 18m³, and it suits house moves and bulky furniture. For what that actually holds, see what can fit in a Luton van, and you can compare it with our medium and large vans when you get an estimate on our Bristol man and van page.