What Size Vehicle Do I Need?

Choosing the correct vehicle size is one of the most important parts of booking transport. Selecting a vehicle that’s too small can cause delays, while booking one that’s too large can increase costs unnecessarily. This guide explains how to choose the right vehicle for your load, access requirements and delivery times.

At London Lorry Courier, we operate a wide range of vehicles through our Trucks & Vans In Our Fleet, and we’ll always recommend the most suitable option for your job.

Van Transport – Small to Medium Loads

A van is often the best choice for smaller consignments, urgent deliveries or locations with restricted access. Our London Van Courier service is ideal when speed and flexibility matter.

Vans are suitable for:

  • Loose items, cartons and small pallet quantities
  • Urgent same-day collections
  • City-centre deliveries with tight access
  • European courier work via Europe Van Transport (from London)

If your load is too heavy, bulky or palletised in higher quantities, we may recommend upgrading to a lorry instead.

7.5 Tonne Lorry – Up to 10 Pallets

The 7.5 Tonne Lorry Transport (Up to 10 Pallets) is one of the most versatile options available. It offers a strong balance between capacity and access, making it ideal for many London deliveries.

Best used for:

7.5 tonne lorries are commonly used for General Haulage and same-day work within London and surrounding areas.

18 Tonne Lorry – Larger & Heavier Loads

For larger consignments, heavier goods or bulk deliveries, 18 Tonne Lorry Transport is often the most efficient solution. These vehicles are typically curtain-sided and equipped with tail lifts for safer loading.

18 tonne lorries are ideal for:

  • High pallet volumes
  • Construction and building materials
  • Industrial and manufacturing goods
  • Event Logistics By Lorry
  • Longer-distance UK and regional runs

All our larger vehicles are compliant with London DVS Compliant Lorry Transport requirements for safe operation in Greater London.

Tractor Units & Specialist Transport

For the largest or most complex jobs, we also provide tractor units and specialist haulage. This includes Traction Work for moving your own trailers and support for oversized or abnormal loads.

These services are commonly used alongside Haulage Contractor agreements, construction projects and European transport under International Transport and Travel.

Other Factors That Affect Vehicle Choice

Vehicle size isn’t just about weight and volume. Other important considerations include:

  • Access restrictions – height limits, narrow roads, loading bays.
  • Loading method – fork truck, tail lift, manual handling.
  • Delivery urgency – same-day vs planned transport.
  • Dedicated vs shared loads – see our guide on transport options.

What Happens If the Vehicle Is the Wrong Size?

If the vehicle is too small, the job may need to be rescheduled or upgraded, causing delays. If it’s too large, access issues or unnecessary costs can arise. That’s why providing accurate load details is essential.

Our team will always review your requirements before confirming the booking to avoid these issues.

Not Sure What You Need?

If you’re unsure which vehicle size is right for your job, we’re happy to help. Contact us via Contact, call 0203 417 4450, or submit your details through our Get A Quote page. We’ll recommend the safest, most cost-effective option for your delivery.