How many people fit in a double cab van?
In a van double cab fit as standard 5 to 6 people. Most models have three seats in the front and two to three seats in the second row of seats. This makes the double cab ideal for companies that regularly travel with a team and need to carry tools or materials at the same time. Below, we answer the key questions on capacity, use and the differences with other vans.
What exactly is a double cab van?
A van double cab is a commercial vehicle with two full rows of seats. There are three seats in the front (driver plus two passengers) and space in the rear for another two to three people. Behind the second row of seats is a cargo area for materials, tools or other business items.
The big difference from an ordinary van is the separate layout. You have a full passenger compartment with doors on both sides, allowing everyone to get in and out comfortably. The cargo area is behind the cabin, sometimes with separate access via rear doors or a hatch.
Companies choose this configuration because it allows them to transport their team and equipment in one trip. Think of installers going to a job with four people, or landscapers driving to different locations with their tools and some equipment. You save fuel, time and parking space by not having to drive multiple vehicles.
Most double cabs fall under 3,500 kg, allowing you to drive them with an ordinary B driving licence. They combine the comfort of a passenger car with the practical loading capacity of a van.
How many people fit in a double cab as standard?
Standard fit 5 to 6 people in a van double cab. The front row always seats three people, including the driver. The back row usually has two or three seats, depending on the make and model you choose.
Models with two rear seats often give you more legroom and comfort per person. Variants with three rear seats are practical if you regularly drive with a larger team, but seating space will be a bit tighter. All seats have compulsory seatbelts and meet legal safety requirements.
The capacity is listed in the registration certificate under “number of seats”. You cannot legally exceed this number, even for short journeys. Always check this before buying or leasing a double cab, so you can be sure your whole team can come along.
Some brands offer different configurations for the same basic model. You can then choose between a 5-seater or 6-seater version when you buy, depending on what better suits your daily tasks. The choice also affects comfort on longer journeys.
What is the difference between a double cab and a single cab van?
The main difference is in the seats and cargo space. A single cab has only a front row of seats with usually two or three seats. The entire space behind the front seats is available for cargo. In the case of a double cabin sacrifice some of that cargo space for a second row of seats.
For cargo capacity, this makes a marked difference. A single cab often has 1.5 to 2 times more cargo space than a double cab of the same model. If you mainly transport materials, tools or goods and rarely drive with more than two people, a single cab is more practical.
Do you regularly pick with a team of three or more? Then the double cab is the better option. You save on fuel costs and time by not having to drive multiple vehicles. Plus, your tools and equipment remain safely separated from the passenger compartment.
The purchase price of a double cab is usually slightly higher than that of a single cab. This is due to the extra seats, doors and finish of the passenger compartment. Weigh this against the savings on extra vehicles and the flexibility you get for team transport.
For which businesses is a double cab van ideal?
A van double cab is perfect for companies regularly travelling with a team. Construction companies, installers, painters and maintenance companies benefit from the ability to transport four to six people plus tools in one trip.
Gardeners and landscapers often use double cabs because they drive a small team to different locations. You have enough space for your people as well as for the tools you need that day. The separate loading area prevents dirt and materials from contaminating the cab.
This type of van is also practical for technical service providers such as electricians, plumbers and HVAC mechanics. You can take colleagues along for bigger jobs, while having standard tools and materials with you at all times. This makes you flexible and efficient in your planning.
Facility services, catering companies and event organisers often choose double cabs when they need to transport staff and belongings to venues. The combination of passenger transport and cargo space makes it possible to get everything and everyone to the right place in one trip.
Are you often on the road alone or with at most one colleague and do you mainly transport materials? Then a single cab probably suits your way of working better. Analyse your daily trips and team size to make the right choice.
How Van Den Hurk helps find the right double cab
We have over 60 years of experience in commercial vehicles and understand exactly what you need to look out for in a double cab. Our range includes various makes and models, both new and used, so you will always find a van to suit your team and budget.
Our advisers will help you with:
- Personal advice based on your team size and type of work
- Clear explanations on seating configurations, cargo space and practical differences between models
- Flexible financing with buying and leasing options to suit your situation
- Test drives so you can experience the comfort and space for yourself
- Stock alert service via our website, so you will be notified immediately when the double cabin you are looking for arrives
In our showroom in Helmond, you can view and compare various double cabins. We take the time to answer your questions and ensure a transparent purchase process from advice to delivery. Contact us at www.vdhurk.nl or drop by to find out which van double cab is the perfect fit for your business.


