Cargo Van: Size, Capacity and When to Use One

In plain English

Cargo vans are quicker to dispatch and cheaper per mile than a Sprinter or box truck. They fit the freight that does not need a lot of room: a few boxes, a crate or one to two pallets.

Weight and height limits are lower than a Sprinter, so check dimensions and weight before you book.

Why it matters when you ship

If it fits, a cargo van is usually the cheapest way to move time-critical freight. If it does not fit, pay for the bigger van and avoid a second trip.

Example

A shop sends a 400 lb crate of instruments 150 miles by cargo van the same afternoon.

Related terms

• Sprinter van
• Box truck
• Expedited freight
• Same-day delivery

Learn more

Cargo van: common questions