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The panel van has played an important role in the UK’s trade and transportation industries for decades.

Versatile, practical and powerful, panel vans are used by all types of businesses, from florists to electrical contractors.

In this article, we take a look at the history of the panel van, and learn about the different ways it’s used here and further afield.

So, what’s a panel van? Here’s the quick answer

A panel van is a small-to-medium sized cargo vehicle. It features a single front bench seat and solid panels instead of side and rear windows (hence the name). The large cargo space makes panel vans ideal for transporting equipment, tools and bulky goods, while the lack of windows helps to protect valuable items from theft and weather damage.

The panel van was originally designed with commercial use in mind. At its core, it’s a utilitarian vehicle, distinguished by a few key features that set it apart from other commercial vehicles.

The name "panel van" (or blind van) comes from the vehicle's distinctive construction, featuring solid panels in place of windows. This unique design offers a secure and spacious area for the loading and transport of goods. Valuable items are not only shielded from public view (reducing the risk of theft), but also protected against adverse weather conditions.

The large side panels on these vans also offer an ideal canvas for displaying company logos and information, allowing businesses to effectively advertise their service and branding on their own vehicles.

Panel vans have evolved to serve a broad range of industries. This type of vehicle is available in a variety of configurations, including different wheelbase lengths and roof heights, catering to diverse business needs.

The panel van’s simple design also makes it easy to convert, especially into refrigerated vehicles for the food, hospitality, medical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Larger models of panel vans offer even more logistical efficiency, with features like rear and side loading, providing a convenient, practical load space. The interior can also be customised with storage solutions and fittings, transforming the van into a mobile workshop for professionals like engineers, electricians and carpenters.

Owning a panel van comes with several advantages:

: Panel vans can be used for a variety of transportation needs, including tools, equipment, materials and perishable goods.

: Businesses can select or tailor their vans to suit their storage requirements, including bespoke shelving and cargo areas.

: As a business, you need a reliable form of transport to help you run your operation. Panel vans are renowned for their reliability.

: The large, panel-sided design allows companies to display their business information and branding for other road users to see.

: The adaptability of panel vans allows businesses to explore new operational avenues.

The Ford Transit and VW Transporter stand out as iconic panel vans — reliable work vehicles that have earned their popularity among tradespeople.

For lighter commercial transport, models like the Ford Transit Connect and Citroen Berlingo offer excellent manoeuvrability and efficiency, particularly in urban settings.

Larger operations may benefit from long wheelbase (LWB) and extra-long wheelbase (XLWB) panel vans, such as the Mercedes Sprinter, Citroen Relay and Ford Transit LWB, each providing enhanced loading capacities and space.

Compared with box vans, panel vans are generally more compact and closer to the ground, making it easier to load high volumes of lighter items.

Box vans, with their straighter, box-like design, usually offer a better internal space for shelving installations, but often need additional steps for loading bulkier items due to their height.

If your work requires you to load lots of smaller items on a regular basis, a panel van could be the more practical choice for your business.

The choice between a panel van and a Luton van largely depends on the work you do.

Panel vans, with their slightly smaller size and enclosed, windowless design, are great for courier or delivery drivers, or for tradespeople working in busy urban environments.

Luton vans, with their distinctive boxy extension, are designed for transporting bulky items, featuring larger cargo areas and are often equipped with tail lifts for easier loading of heavy goods.

While panel vans are suited for city navigation and quick loading, Luton vans provide more space and capacity for larger hauls. Deciding between the two depends on the needs of your business, the items you need to transport and where you tend to drive.

What’s the difference between a box van and a panel van?

The main difference is in the design of the cargo area. Panel vans tend to have a curved roof and internal intrusions over the wheel chassis, reducing space. Whereas a box van provides a flat surface underneath the storage area for easier loading.

Yes, the Ford Transit Custom is a mid-sized panel van, offering reliable and versatile transport for all types of commercial work. There are also larger, long wheel base models available for the transportation of larger, bulkier goods.

Panel vans tend to be more expensive than regular cars due to their larger, more powerful engines and increased size. In recent years, there has also been a price surge due to shortages of materials following the lockdown. This has disrupted the production of new vans, and driven up the cost of second-hand vehicles.

Do you need a special licence to drive a panel van?

No, you don’t need a special licence to drive a panel van. Your standard driving licence allows you to drive vans that weigh less than 3.5 tonnes on public roads.

If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997, the allowable weight limit increases to 7.5 tonnes, meaning you can operate larger vans without needing a specialised licence.

While both types of vans are used for transportation and commercial driving, they are different from one another. Panel vans are smaller and more compact, while Luton vans tend to be larger, with an additional space (called the “Luton peak”) above the cab for extra storage.

Despite some models having windows at the sides and rear, the Volkswagen Caddy is in fact classed as a panel van. The VW Caddy panel van is primarily designed for business use, however it also offers plenty of opportunities for customisation, allowing it to be converted into a leisure activity vehicle for camping and recreation.

Yes, if you own a panel van that’s been converted into a camper van, you’ll need to make sure you get the right insurance for it. Be sure to let your insurer know how you intend to use the vehicle — if you’ll only use it for personal driving or recreational use, you’ll need an appropriate social, domestic and pleasure policy, rather than a 

In this guide, we take a close look at the panel van and learn about the history and unique characteristics of this popular commercial vehicle.

What is a Panel van? Origins, features and uses

The Luton van has made a name for itself in the logistics and transport industry. And it’s no surprise why.

Capable of taking on most jobs, from household moves to commercial deliveries, the Luton is a go-to vehicle for many companies.

In this guide, we uncover the history of the Luton van, and take a close look at the unique features and characteristics of this popular vehicle.

Volkswagen Crafter Luton van product page

The Luton van can be traced back to Bedfordshire, England, where it was first designed by the renowned vehicle manufacturer, Bedford Vehicles.

Named after the Bedfordshire town of Luton, this vehicle was initially designed to cater to the booming straw hat industry in the early 20th century.

The original Bedford 2-tonne lorry was revolutionary at the time. Its design featured a distinctive box-shaped body, offering large amounts of space for the transportation of straw and other cargo.

What sets Luton vans apart from other vehicles?

Luton vans are highly versatile and can be used for many different jobs, from house moves to transporting furniture and building materials. Luton vans offer the extra space and stability required for most types of transport work.

Today's Luton vans still have the same characteristics of the original vehicles, including a spacious cargo area that extends over the cab — an extra storage space known as the "Luton peak."

This unique design aspect is not just for show — it significantly increases the Luton's loading capacity, making it an ideal choice for transporting bulky items that require more space.

: With internal dimensions designed to maximise cargo space, Luton vans offer plenty of room, making them a top 

 for moving large pieces of furniture, household appliances and other sizeable items.

: A standard feature in most Luton vans, the tail lift is a game-changer for loading and unloading heavy goods. This hydraulic platform simplifies the process, reducing manual labour and the risk of injuries.

: Whether it's a house move, a commercial delivery, or transporting building materials, the Luton van's robust design and substantial cargo space make it a versatile and practical choice.

One of the most appealing aspects of Luton vans is their accessibility and ease of use. In the UK, a standard driving licence allows you to operate a Luton van, making them a good option for both 

 without the need for specialised training or licences.

If you’re using a Luton van for work or business reasons, you’ll need a 

. This is a common insurance policy used by tradespeople and contractors.

When comparing Luton vans to long-wheelbase (LWB) vehicles, the choice often comes down to your specific needs.

While LWB vehicles may offer a longer cargo area, Luton vans provide a superior height and volume capacity, making them more suited for transporting tall or bulky items. Also, the addition of a tail lift in Luton vans adds extra convenience and safety for loading heavy or awkward items.

The market for Luton vans is diverse, offering options from several manufacturers known for their reliability, durability and performance.

Here are some of the most popular brands that produce Luton vans, each with its unique set of features and benefits:

The Ford Transit Luton is known throughout the industry for its robustness and versatility. The Ford Transit Luton is a standout model, chosen for its reliability on the road and its sturdy construction.

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Luton van is another top choice in the market, offering advanced technology, comfort and efficiency. Its reputation for quality makes it a preferred option for many businesses and individuals.

The Iveco Daily Luton van is renowned for its large payload capacity and spacious interior, making it ideal for heavier and bulkier loads. Iveco combines performance with practicality, offering a durable solution for many different transportation jobs.

Vauxhall's Luton vans, based on the Movano platform, provide a good balance of size and manoeuvrability. These vans are designed with the user in mind, offering comfort and ease-of-use alongside ample storage space.

The Renault Master Luton van is known for its efficiency and reliability. With a comfortable cab and generous load space, it's a practical choice for those needing a dependable vehicle for moving goods.

Peugeot Luton vans, particularly those based on the Boxer model, are appreciated for their fuel efficiency and load capacity. They offer a competitive option for businesses looking to minimise operational costs while maximising cargo space.

The Volkswagen Crafter Luton van stands out for its build quality and driving experience. VW offers innovative features and a comfortable driving position, making it a favourite among professional drivers.

From their early beginnings in Bedfordshire to their solid reputation in the moving industry today, Luton vans have evolved into a popular vehicle for many drivers and transportation companies.

Their unique blend of spaciousness, practicality and accessibility makes them an indispensable tool for moving or transporting large items.

Whether you're a professional mover, a tradesperson or someone planning a DIY move, the Luton van stands ready as your reliable choice on the road.

Can I drive a Luton van on a normal licence?

Yes, you can drive a Luton van on a standard driving licence, provided the van's weight is under 3.5 tonnes and is for use on public roads. If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997, the allowable weight limit increases up to 7.5 tonnes, meaning you can operate larger Luton vans without needing a specialised licence.

Many of the Luton vans produced today weigh 3.5 tonnes or less (meaning they can be driven on a standard driver’s licence), and feature a powerful engine capable of moving heavy loads. Luton vans boast a large haulage capacity (usually 800 kg or more) and span a length of around 4 to 6 metres, making them a substantial vehicle for transporting a wide range of items.

Yes, some of the larger Luton vans produced today are 7.5 tonnes in weight. These particular models are designed for home removals and transportation of large items, offering an internal volume of around 1,200 cubic feet. This size is ideally suited for moving the contents of a 3-bedroom house, including kitchen, bedroom, living room, and garden furniture.

Driving a Luton van is obviously different from operating a standard car. But, with a little practice and preparation, you’ll be able to comfortably drive a Luton van. Before getting started, pay close attention to the van's size when steering or reversing, and spend a few minutes getting used to the dimensions before heading out on the road.

What licence do I need to drive a Luton van?

If you passed your driving test after 1st January 1997, your standard driving licence (category B) would allow you to legally drive a Luton van with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of up to 3.5 tonnes. This means that most drivers can operate a Luton van without needing additional qualifications. If you passed your test before 1st January 1997, you’ll be able to drive a Luton van weighing up to 7.5 tonnes.

What's the biggest van you can drive on a normal licence?

On a standard driving licence, you're allowed to drive a van up to 3.5 tonnes, including cargo and passengers. For vehicles larger than this, you’ll most likely need a category C or D licence.

No, Luton vans that weigh less than 3.5 tonnes are not classified as heavy goods vehicles (HGV). These Luton vans can be driven with a Category B or B1 licence, and fall into the category of a light goods vehicle (LGV), making them more accessible for personal and commercial use without the need for an HGV licence.

In this comprehensive guide, we uncover the history of the Luton van and learn about the unique features and characteristics of this popular vehicle.

What is a Luton van? History, features and interesting facts

In our previous edition of Under The Hood, we learned about Zego’s approach to underwriting and how we’re making the price of insurance fairer for good drivers.

Central to that approach is Zego Sense — our telematics insurance that rewards safe drivers with lower prices.

For our next edition, we chatted with Sam Wilson-Brown, our Lead Product Manager for the Sense app, to find out more about Zego Sense and how we’re changing insurance for the better.

It’s our app-based insurance that allows drivers to earn discounts on their renewal price when they drive well.

It uses telematics — a type of technology that measures how your vehicle moves while on the road — to build a picture of how you drive.

Using the sensors in your smartphone, it’s able to detect things like how fast you accelerate and how harshly you brake, plus other factors like where and when you drive.

Then, using clever calculations, it builds a profile of your average driving habits over time and gives you a driver score.

The higher your score, the lower your price when you come to renew.

What are the latest features in the Sense app?

Previously, some customers found that even though they were driving on a regular basis, their score wasn’t changing much.

This meant that sometimes it could be hard to see how your driving was improving.

With the new Universal Score, we give more weight to your recent trips, which means you get to see the benefits of good driving, sooner.

This also means you have more control over your driver score, and ultimately more control over your renewal price.

Another feature we’ve added very recently allows you to see how much you’re on track to save when you renew. We call it 

Our customers need to see that if they drive well and build a good score, they’ll be rewarded for it.

That’s why, in the last couple of weeks, we’ve released a new feature in the app that allows you to see the actual amount of money you’ve saved based on your score.

This makes things much more transparent for our customers, again giving them more control over their price when they renew.

Tell us about the Future of Zego Sense: What does 2024 look like?

We want customers to get more out of Sense.

Right now, we’re working on improvements in the app that will offer better and more detailed insights into your driving.

By giving customers more information about how their scores are calculated, and why certain driving factors are higher or lower than others, we can help them to build a higher score, and therefore pay a lower price at renewal.

We also want to offer better insights into how customers can improve their driving.

It’s one thing to show what your driver score is, but we think we can offer much clearer and more actionable information about what improvements you could make to build a better score.

And, by making these insights personalised to each individual customer, we can help them to practise safer driving for a better score and a lower price on their insurance.

In this next edition of Under The Hood, our Lead Product Manager talks us through our Zego Sense app and how we’re changing insurance for the better.


Under the Hood: Zego Sense

We’ve been busy adding lots of new features to the Zego Sense app.

Now, along with insights to help you improve your driving, you can also manage your cover, update your details, and even make a claim. All from the palm of your hand.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can do in the app.

If you have a Zego Sense policy, you can track your driver score and get driving insights to help you make improvements.

One of the latest features available for private hire drivers with a Sense policy is the Sense price saving, which shows you how much you’re on track to save when you renew.

Whether it’s your certificate of insurance or the full terms of your policy, you can check and download all your documents with just a few taps, right from the app.

Easily make changes to your vehicle information, personal details or your home address. Simply tap ‘Policy’ at the bottom of the screen, then edit the information you need to.

When your insurance is up for renewal, you can check your quote and renew in just a few minutes using the app.

Want to make things even faster and easier? Switch on ‘Auto-renew’, so you won’t have to do a thing next time you’re due for renewal.

If you’re involved in an accident, you can let us know quickly and easily using the Sense app.

This means you don’t have to call us or wait on the phone, and you can send us your details and information about the incident in just a few minutes.

Simply open the app, tap ‘Incidents’ and then follow the steps there.

 to take a look at all of these features and more.

Did you know that you can use the app to view your documents, update your details and even submit a claim? Check our quick guide to learn more.

Here’s what you can do with the Sense app

Sometimes, a quick stop to deliver a parcel or pick up a passenger is necessary, especially when you’re navigating busy streets. But, what should you do if the only place to park is on double yellow lines?

Knowing when and where you can park without facing a penalty can make all the difference. In this guide, we explore the latest parking rules, so you can make the right decisions when out on the road.

Depending on the time of day, you may be able to park on single yellow lines for a short time.

If you see a sign showing specific times or hours, you’ll need to make sure you avoid parking during that time range.

For example, if a sign shows "Mon–Sat, 8am–7pm", this means you’re only allowed to park there before 8am or after 7pm between Monday and Saturday, or at any time on a Sunday. Parking or waiting within the hours shown could see you face a penalty.

The Highway Code emphasises the importance of parking within the time ranges displayed on these signs, or within Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ).

That’s why it’s important to check for any signs or restriction notices before parking your vehicle.

If you can’t see any signs or hours of operation, it’s usually safer to assume that parking is prohibited at all times.

A single yellow line along the kerbside means that parking is restricted during specified times, including the loading and unloading of any vehicles.

The exact restrictions and allowances, including times for parking or stopping, should be clearly shown on nearby signs.

Is parking on double yellow lines ever allowed?

Parking on double yellow lines is not allowed at any time, or any day of the week (including Sundays and bank holidays).

The Highway Code makes it clear that double yellow lines mean no waiting or stopping at any time, regardless of the presence of upright signs.

Some exceptions are allowed in specific locations, for example, to allow the loading or unloading of heavy goods into 

. But, any allowances will be clearly marked on roadside signage.

While parking on a single yellow line outside the restricted hours is allowed, you’ll need to make sure you move your vehicle before the restricted time starts.

On double yellow lines, parking is not allowed at any time.

In some locations, commercial vehicles may be allowed to stop for a short time to load or unload goods, or to pick up passengers on double yellow lines. But drivers will need to check that there are signs clearly indicating these allowances.

Can Blue Badge holders park on double yellow lines?

Blue Badge holders are allowed to park on double yellow lines for up to three hours, as long as the vehicle doesn’t cause an obstruction and the badge is clearly displayed.

Blue Badge holders can’t park in any spaces or bays where loading and unloading is restricted, so it’s always a good idea to check the kerbside signs before stopping.

If you’re caught parking illegally or in a restricted zone, even with a Blue Badge, you could receive a £70 fine.

That’s why it's crucial to always check the signs before stopping, and be aware of any yellow lines or restrictions before parking.

By taking a careful and cautious approach, you should be able to avoid any unnecessary penalties or fines.

Can I park on double yellow lines as a delivery driver?

Delivery drivers unloading goods in a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) can park on double yellow lines for up to 40 minutes (as long as there are no signs indicating otherwise).

Drivers in a light goods vehicle (a commercial van, or LGV) can usually park for up to 20 minutes.

Always be prepared to prove to a parking attendant that you're loading or unloading something you couldn't carry from a legal parking spot. And, if you can see waiting restrictions or signs in place (including kerb dashes) you'll need to adhere to these.

Can food delivery drivers park in loading bays?

This is considered a bit of a grey area when it comes to the parking rules, but, in general, food delivery drivers are usually OK to park in a loading bay for a short time to deliver or collect an order.

As always, be sure to check for signs that indicate any specific restrictions, and make sure your vehicle has been moved within the 20 minute allowance for most loading bays.

Can food delivery drivers park on double yellow lines?

 drivers are usually able to stop for a short time on double yellow lines to pick up or drop off food, as this can be classed as loading and onloading.

Just be sure to move your vehicle within the 40 minute allowance, and always check for signs indicating where loading restrictions apply.

Knowing where you can park can make all the difference when out on the road. In this guide, we explore the latest rules, helping you to make the right decisions.

Can you park on double yellow lines?

We all hope it never happens to us, but if you do find yourself involved in an accident, it pays to be prepared.

If you’re a Zego customer and you’ve been involved in an accident, please 

use the Zego Sense app to submit your claim

We spoke to our experts to find out exactly what you should do following a collision.

Here’s what to do when an accident happens

If you can, move your vehicle to a safe place, like a layby or side road.

Turn off the engine and switch on your hazard lights.

If the accident happens on a motorway, try to move safely to the hard shoulder and stand well away from your vehicle and moving traffic.

Take a few deep breaths — stay as calm as you can.

Check yourself and your passengers for signs of injury.

The Road Traffic Act says that you need to report any accident to the police within 24 hours.

If it’s an emergency situation, or anyone has been injured, call 999. If the accident isn’t an emergency, you should call 101.

As a driver, you must give your name, address, vehicle and insurance details to anyone involved in the accident. Be sure to also get the same information from any other drivers involved — we’ll need those details during the claims process.

Avoid apologising or admitting responsibility until it’s clear what happened. Doing so could make you liable, even if it wasn’t your fault.

It’s important to record as much information as you can before leaving the scene of the accident. This will help to speed up the claims process for everyone involved.

Try to collect the following information:

We all hope it never happens to us, but if you do find yourself involved in a traffic accident, it pays to be prepared. Here’s what you need to do.

Advice to help you make sense of insurance

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Latest News

What is a Panel van? Origins, features and uses

What is a Luton van? History, features and interesting facts

Under the Hood: Zego Sense

Here’s what you can do with the Sense app

Can you park on double yellow lines?

What to do if you're involved in an accident

Under the Hood: Pricing & Underwriting

How to delete and restart a new quote in the Zego Delivery app

Commercial van insurance vs personal van insurance