When an urgent delivery needs to go today, the first question is often: “How quickly can you collect?” The next question should be: “What vehicle do we need?”

Choosing the right vehicle helps keep the job straightforward. A vehicle that is too small can cause delay at collection; a vehicle that is much larger than necessary may not be the most efficient choice. The best answer depends on the size, weight and shape of the consignment, whether it is palletised and whether any special loading or handling is required.

At Roadrunners Despatch, we arrange same-day vehicles for everything from a single urgent document to multi-pallet loads. Here is a practical guide to the main options.

For documents, small parcels and urgent components: a car or small van

For contracts, tenders, legal papers, keys, small parcels, technical drawings and compact components, a car or small van is often the most practical choice. These vehicles are agile and well suited to time-critical work where the consignment is light and easy to load.

Our Small Van option is suitable for loads of up to 500 kg, with room for approximately one standard pallet. It is a useful choice when the item is too large for a car but does not require a full-sized van.

For heavier parcels and compact pallets: an SWB van

An SWB (short-wheelbase) van is a sensible step up for heavier cartons, trade supplies, several parcels or up to two pallets. Roadrunners' SWB option carries up to 1,000 kg, with an internal load length of around 2.4 metres.

This is often the right choice for urgent business-to-business deliveries where the items are substantial but still compact enough for a short-wheelbase vehicle.

For multiple boxes, engineering parts and three pallets: an MWB van

An MWB (medium-wheelbase) van provides more load length and is a strong all-round option for urgent freight. It can carry up to 1,200 kg, has an internal load length of around 3 metres, and is suitable for approximately three pallets.

Businesses commonly choose an MWB van for engineering parts, stock transfers, exhibition materials, boxed equipment and multi-piece consignments that need to travel together on one direct journey.

For longer items and three to four pallets: an LWB or XLWB van

Where length matters, a long-wheelbase (LWB) or extra-long-wheelbase (XLWB) van can make the difference between a smooth collection and an avoidable delay.

Our LWB option provides around 4 metres of internal load length and can carry three to four pallets. The XLWB option gives around 4.2 metres of internal length and space for approximately four pallets. Both are suitable for long components, multiple pallets, retail stock, larger equipment and bulky freight that needs direct same-day delivery.

When booking, do not just tell us the weight. Tell us the longest, widest and tallest measurement too. A lightweight item can still require a longer vehicle if it is awkwardly shaped or cannot be stacked.

For bulky, high-volume loads: a Luton van

A Luton van is often the right answer for high-volume consignments. It is particularly useful for furniture, exhibition equipment, large boxed items, light but bulky stock and up to six pallets.

Roadrunners' Luton option carries up to 800 kg and offers an internal load space of around 4 metres long, 2 metres wide and 2 metres high. Because a Luton is designed for volume, it can be ideal when the load is large but not especially heavy.

Five questions to answer before you book

To help us send the right vehicle first time, please have the following details ready:

What are the length, width and height of the consignment?
What is the approximate total weight?
Is it palletised, and if so, how many pallets are there?
Can the item be safely stacked or loaded by hand, or does it need special equipment?
Are there any access restrictions at the collection or delivery point?

Details such as low loading bays, narrow access roads, stairs, time restrictions or the need to call ahead can be just as important as the size of the load.

Not sure which vehicle you need?

You do not need to be an expert in vans to book an urgent delivery. Tell us what you are moving, provide the dimensions if you have them, and explain any access or handling requirements. We will help you select a suitable vehicle for the job.

Vehicle capacities and dimensions are a guide and can vary by vehicle. Final suitability always depends on the consignment, loading method and availability.

For an urgent same-day collection anywhere on the UK mainland, call 0800 970 1155 or request an instant quote. You can also see our courier prices and UK same-day courier service before you book.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for an Urgent Same-Day Delivery