Box truck or Luton? Demystifying the different types of LCV
If you’re managing a fleet of commercial vehicles, identifying the right vehicle for your needs is crucial. That’s why understanding the difference between various shapes and sizes of vehicle is a great starting point. It can help you pick the most suitable vehicle for the job, potentially saving money and boosting efficiency. With Alphabet's expertise, you can find the correct tool for the job, and get the best outcome for your business.
What is an LCV?
Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) are some of the most common and versatile vehicles on the road. Used by businesses of all shapes and sizes from delivery companies to property maintenance providers, they handle a vast amount of daily trade in cities, towns, and rural areas.
Each class of LCV has its own strengths and some are better suited to certain tasks than others, so finding the right one for your specific needs is crucial. You don’t want to end up with a fleet of vehicles that are too small, too large, or unsuitable for the terrain or cargo they’ll be carrying. You need to know what’s best for your fleet.
What does each LCV offer?
Vans
The most common and versatile LCV around. Vans come in a variety of shapes and sizes including car-derived vans and panel vans, and can turn their wheels to everything from parcel delivery to minibus. With different wheelbases and weight limits available, the most suitable van for the job depends entirely on the use case.
Pick-up trucks
Ideally suited to construction and agriculture, pickups have an open cargo area at the back. They are commonly used for transporting bulky goods, equipment, or materials, and often come with four-wheel drive for rough terrain.
Refrigerated vans
Also known as 'reefers', refrigerated vans are used to transport temperature-sensitive goods, such as food or pharmaceuticals. They are equipped with powerful refrigeration units that maintain a specific temperature range, so sensitive goods don’t perish during transport.
Box trucks
Characterised by a cabin plus a separate, enclosed cargo area, box truck LCVs are optimally designed for the transportation of sizable items, such as furniture, electronics, or other appliances. While offering substantial storage space within a relatively compact footprint, they’re generally less fuel-efficient than their smaller van counterparts.
Flatbed trucks
Flatbeds are essentially extra-large pick-ups. They have a flat, open cargo area and are commonly used for transporting oversized or irregularly shaped items. They’re popular in the construction industry and when moving items that don’t need protection from the elements.
Luton vans
The ultimate in LCV large item transportation. Luton vans come with a body that extends over the cab, offering an additional storage compared to box trucks. Often equipped with a tail lift, Luton vans are used for transporting large or bulky items and are a favourite with home removal companies.
Getting started with LCVs?
Our dedicated team of commercial vehicle experts can help guide you in the right direction. Get in touch with our team on 01252 976 010 to find out more about the options available to your company.
How Alphabet can help you find the right LCV leasing solution
No matter which type of LCV you choose, we can help you identify which solution suits your company's specific needs and objectives. We also offer conversion services. Over 70% of new commercial vehicles require conversion beyond standard lining for a safe, organised workspace. We collaborate with suppliers to perform necessary conversions before delivery, providing an optimally suited vehicle timely and affordably. This approach, factoring in resale value and lease cost, allows combined financing of the vehicle and alterations.
And of course, because vans live hard lives, Alphabet also offers a wide range of fleet management services, including Service, Maintenance and Repair, Accident Management, Driver Risk Management, and Daily Rental options, to keep your drivers and business moving forward.
