What Freight Can't Go in a Courier Van? A Guide to Vehicle Types

A courier van is not a universal answer to every freight problem. Here’s what actually fits where, and what you’re paying for when you step up to a larger vehicle.

Sedan / car (small freight)

A car may suit small, compact freight such as documents, satchels, small parts or equipment that can be safely loaded into the available space. The actual dimensions, weight, packaging and pickup and delivery access must be assessed before booking.

Van (enclosed general freight)

A van may suit cartons, flat-pack items, catering equipment, medical device kits, server components and retail stock transfers where the dimensions, weight and loading method fit the vehicle. Palletised or heavy freight may need different equipment or a tail-lift; that requirement must be confirmed before dispatch.

• Check first: pallet dimensions, total weight, loading equipment, access and any item that needs a specific vehicle body.

Ute / tray vehicle (long or awkward freight)

A tray vehicle may suit long items, awkward loads and trade freight such as pipe, conduit, timber, steel sections, panels or machinery components. Tell dispatch whether loading is manual or requires a forklift, and whether weather protection or specialist restraint is needed.

Tray vehicle with tail-lift (where confirmed)

A tail-lift may assist with palletised or heavy items at sites without a suitable dock or forklift. Tail-lift capacity, pallet-jack access, ground conditions and the vehicle available for the route must be confirmed for the booking.

Pantech (enclosed or larger consignments)

A pantech may suit multiple pallets, larger consignments or freight that needs an enclosed body. Vehicle size, loading equipment and route access are checked against the freight rather than assumed from the item description.

The rule

Book to the freight, not just the price. Hypothetical example: a pallet that needs a tail-lift or forklift may not be suitable for an ordinary van. Tell dispatch the weight, dimensions, pickup access and delivery access; if any detail changes, the vehicle, price or available service may also change.

Questions about the right vehicle for your freight? Call 1300 973 038 with the dimensions, weight and access details. See the full freight guide, pallet delivery page and current pricing page for more information.