In the UK, the term ‘Transit’ is almost synonymous with ‘Van’. One of the most recognised types of vans, it’s no wonder they’re so popular with tradespeople and small businesses.
But what exactly is a Transit van? And how long are they? (Answer: it depends on the model, but between 4,337mm and 6,704 mm). What sort of payload do they have? And are there any similar vans available from other manufacturers?
If you’re thinking about getting one of these vans for yourself, or want to know how they square up with competitors, you’ve come to the right place. Find measurement details on different types of transit models, comparisons to alternative options, and answers to FAQs here.
What is a transit van?
Let’s begin by defining what a transit van is. This question actually has two answers.
Firstly, it’s a light commercial vehicle manufactured by Ford. Launched in 1965, the transit van recently celebrated its 60th birthday. First manufactured in the UK, it currently ranks as the second most-purchased van model in the UK so far in 2025.
The Ford Transit has since expanded into a range of different vans that offer variations on the original model. Find more details on this below.
Secondly, the term ‘transit van’ has become a general term for medium-sized panel vans. This is much like how ‘Hoover’ is used to refer to vacuums, even though ‘Hoover’ is a specific brand of vacuum cleaner.
‘Transit’ is used interchangeably with both actual Ford Transit models and vans that have a similar design and size.
Ford Transit dimensions
If you’re searching for measurements for the different types of Ford Transit models, we’ve got you covered here with this transit van size guide. Below is a table with the main dimensions of Ford Transit vans.
Please note that the models themselves come in different heights and lengths, as well as various wheelbase options. What we’ve shared here is a general overview of the different dimensions available in current Ford Transit models.
Comparison chart for Ford Transit Van Alternatives
Are you looking for a van that’s similar to a Ford Transit but made by a different manufacturer? The good news is that there are other models out there that make great alternatives, with comparable payloads and dimensions.
Examples include the Renault Trafic and Citroën Relay, which come with different wheelbase sizes and more. We’ve shared the dimensions of these below so you can compare them to Ford Transits.
What’s more, many of these vans are available on flexible subscription with Drivesimple.
Similar to the comparison table above, these models are available in a range of heights, lengths, and wheelbase options.
FAQs
How many types of Transit vans are there?
Within the Ford Transit van range, there are four different types of Transits. These are:
- Transit (aka the original). This is a large van.
- Courier. This is the smallest in the range.
- Connect. This is a small van.
- Custom. This is a medium-sized van.
Within each of these models, there are different variants, including body sizes, wheelbases, roof heights, and more.
Can I drive a transit van on a normal license?
Whether you can drive a transit van on a standard car license all depends on the model of transit van you want to drive.
For any vans that weigh under 3,500kg, you’re good to go with your normal category B license.
However, if you want to drive a Transit over 3,500kg, you need to have a category C license.
Can a new driver drive a Transit van?
Yes, a new UK driver can drive a Transit van. But, like we’ve mentioned above, they need to make sure they have the right license.
Do bear in mind that some vehicle rental and leasing services require drivers to be over a certain age (usually 18 or 21+).
Tempted by a Transit-style van? Make getting a van for your business a whole lot easier with DriveSimple. Unlike traditional van leasing, our subscription service is flexible and tailored to your business’s needs. Build your own subscription plan by setting the deposit amount, subscription length, and more. Get started by choosing a van here.
Got questions? Check out our FAQs or contact our friendly team today.
