Luton Van Capacity (Payload + Load Volume): All Info You'll Need

The cargo capacity is one of the most important things to consider when hiring a van. Many people see Luton vans as perfect vehicles for cargo transportation due to their large size, extended cargo space above the passenger cabin and simple driving requirements. But what exactly is Luton van capacity, and how much cargo can it carry?

The capacity of a Luton van depends on various factors, including size and weight. Join us in this article as we go over everything you need to know about the Luton van payload and cargo volume capacity. We’ll also compare the payload capacities of Lutons from various makers so that you know which one to choose.

Table Of Contents

1 Luton Van Capacity
- 1.1 Luton Van Payload Capacity
- 1.2 Luton Van Load Volume Capacity
2 Comparing Luton Van Payload And Load Volume Capacity Across Make And Models
3 Frequently Asked Questions
4 Conclusion

Luton Van Capacity

When considering the capacity of a Luton van, the two factors you need to look out for are the payload and volume. The payload is the maximum amount of weight the van can carry, while the volume refers to the size of cargo that can fit inside the van.

Visit our article ‘What is a Luton’ to learn about the uses of Lutons.

Luton Van Payload Capacity

A 3.5-tonne Luton van’s payload capacity is between 0.8 and 1.21 tonnes (800 and 1,210 kg). The payload limit varies across models from different makers. These disparities are due to various reasons, which we’ll discuss later on. Below, you’ll find the payload capacity of some of the most popular Luton van models.

Ford Luton Van: 1.02 tonne (1,020 kg)
Mercedes Sprinter Luton: 1 tonne (1,000 kg)
Renault Master Luton: 1.21 tonne (1,210 kg)

See everything you need to know about driving a Luton on a normal licence.

Understanding Van Payload And The Difference Between Weights

Although most people often mistake the van’s payload for its weight, these terms mean completely different things. The payload of a van is the maximum amount of weight it can carry, including the people in the vehicle. The weight, which usually refers to the unladen weight or curb weight, is the mass of the van when empty. Find out more about Luton van weight in our other article.

How to Calculate Luton Van Payload Capacity

Calculating the payload capacity of a Luton van is pretty easy. All you have to do is subtract the vehicle’s curb weight from its gross vehicle weight rating.

The gross vehicle weight rating is the maximum allowed operating weight of a vehicle, which is 3.5 tonnes (3,500 kg) for all Luton vans. As we have said, the unladen weight or curb weight is the mass of the van without any passengers or cargo in it.

Suppose the van has a curb weight of 2,480 kg, subtract that from 3,500 kg (the gross weight), and it gives you 1,020 kg. Therefore, the maximum payload capacity of the van is 1,020 kg.

A Luton van also has a towing capacity of 0.75 tonnes (750 kg), provided that the gross weight doesn’t exceed 3.5 tonnes.

Factors Affecting Luton Van Payload

Several factors can affect a van’s payload, determining how much it can carry.

Curb Weight: As we disclosed earlier, your van’s weight when it’s empty greatly determines how much cargo it can carry. Vehicles with lower curb weight can carry more cargo without exceeding their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
Chassis: The design and construction of the van’s chassis also matter. Luton vans with lighter but stronger chassis handle heavier loads.
Modifications and Accessories: Making modifications and adding accessories, like a tail lift and shelving units, increases the weight of the van. This, in turn, lowers its payload capacity.

But what is a tail lift?

Tips For Maximising Luton Van Payload

Pay attention to the tips that we’re about to share if you’re looking to maximise your Luton van’s payload capacity.

Reduce Van Weight: The easiest way to maximise your Luton’s payload is by decreasing its weight. Simply try removing the non-essentials from the van. Take out additional doors, seats and other items that you don’t need at that moment.
Distribute Load Evenly: Distributing Luton van weight evenly is another great way to get the best out of its payload. Load heavier loads in the middle and spread other items evenly from side to side. This simple trick helps the Luton maintain balance and prevents you from overloading the axles.
Regular Maintenance: Follow maintenance schedules to keep your van in good condition. A well-maintained van handles cargo better without straining.

Be careful when driving Lutons as they have a lower speed limit than cars on most roads.

Luton Van Load Volume Capacity

In addition to the payload capacity, another important factor that you need to look out for is Luton’s load volume.

Understanding Van Load Volume Capacity

In simple terms, the load volume capacity refers to how much space the Luton van’s cargo compartment has. It is the measurement of the van’s internal capacity, usually expressed in cubic metres or cubic feet. The average load volume of a Luton van is 18.79 m3 (663.56 ft3).

How to Calculate Luton Van Load Volume Capacity

The best way to calculate the maximum load volume capacity of a Luton van is by measuring its cargo compartment. You’ll need to measure the internal length, internal width and internal height and multiply them to get the total interior volume of the cargo area.

As an example, we’ll consider a Luton van with a length, width and height of 4.1 m, 2.1 m and 2.2 m, respectively. The count: 4.1 m x 2.1 m x 2.2 m = 18.94 m3. Therefore, the load volume capacity of this van is 18.94 m3.

Factors Affecting Load Volume

Two major factors determine the vehicle’s load volume and how spacious its cargo space is.

Size of Van: There are different Luton van models from various makers, and they differ in size based on the manufacturer’s preference and design. Generally, larger vans have higher load volumes. However, they tend to be heavier, which decreases the payload. See our van size guide for details about the size of different vans.
Interior Design: Vans have different layouts, which can also affect their load volume. For example, some Lutons have shelves and other storage compartments that take up space.

Tip: You can find the payload and load volume capacities of some Lutons on their vehicle identification number plates.

Tips For Maximising Luton Van Load Volume Capacity

The three tips below can help you maximise the load volume capacity of a Luton.

Organise and Plan: Plan how you’ll arrange the items before loading them up, so you don’t have empty spaces.
Utilise Shelves and Racks: Take advantage of the shelves and racks in the cargo space. You can stack small items on these racks, leaving the floor for more bulky loads.
Remove Unnecessary Items: Take out items and accessories that you don’t need for the current transportation task.

Comparing Luton Van Payload And Load Volume Capacity Across Make And Models

As we revealed earlier, the average payload capacity of a Luton van is between 0.8 and 1.2 tonnes (800 and 1,200 kg), and the average load volume is 18.79 m3 (663.56 ft3). See how some popular Luton vans compare to this average.

Van	Luton Van Payload Capacity	Luton Van Cargo Volume Capacity
Ford Transit Luton	1.02 t	20.04 m3
Citroen Relay Luton	1.08 t	20.40 m3
Iveco Daily Luton	1.12 t	17.03 m3
Mercedes Sprinter Luton	1 t	18.98 m3
Renault Master Luton	1.21 t	18.67 m3

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Maximum Payload Capacity Of A Luton Van?

The maximum payload capacity of a Luton van is 1.21 tonnes (1,210 kg). The Nissan NV400, Renault Master and Vauxhall Movano are some of the popular Luton van models with this payload capacity. These Lutons have lower kerb weight, which allows them to carry more cargo than most other models.

How Many Tonnes Can A Luton Van Carry?

A Luton can carry between 0.8 and 1.21 tonnes (800 and 1,210 kg). All Lutons have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 3.5 tonnes, which means that the weight of the Luton and everything in it must not exceed 3.5 tonnes (3,500 kg) when driving. The exact payload capacity varies across models.

How Many Cubic Metres Can Be Put In A Luton Van?

An average of 18.79 cubic metres can be put in a Luton van. The cubic metres here refer to the interior space or the maximum cargo volume capacity of the van. You can calculate the load volume of a Luton by measuring the internal length, width and height and then multiplying them all together.

What Can Fit In An Average Luton Van?

You can fit furniture and other bulky items in an average Luton van. Lutons commonly serve as commercial vehicles, and many businesses use them to transport cargo. People also use these versatile vehicles to transport furniture, appliances and boxes during house moves. That being said, ensure that whatever you put in the Luton doesn’t exceed its payload capacity.

What Is The Capacity Of A 7.5 Tonne Luton Van?

There is no 7.5-tonne Luton van. However, there are other 7.5-tonne vans and lorries. Any vehicle rated at 7.5 tonnes is allowed to have a maximum laden weight of 7.5 tonnes (7,500 kg). This includes the weight of the vehicle and all the items in it.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it. The capacity of a Luton van depends on various factors, such as its size, weight and design. Knowing the specific Luton van capacity of your hired vehicle helps you stay within weight limits and reduces the risk of accidents. You don’t have to take anybody’s word for it; the tips in this article will help you determine the correct capacity of a van and how to maximise it.

Luton Van Capacity (Payload + Load Volume): All Info You’ll Need