What is the load capacity of a double cab van?
A double-cab van typically has a load capacity of between 500 and 1,200 kilograms, depending on the make, model and version. The extra seats in the double cab reduce the load capacity compared to a single cab, as the weight of the cab and passengers counts. It is important to look at the technical specifications of the specific model and take into account the number of passengers and the extra options you choose.
What is the difference between cargo capacity and payload in a double cab?
Load capacity refers to the physical space in the cargo space of your double-cab van, expressed in cubic metres or litres. Payload, on the other hand, indicates the maximum weight you can carry, expressed in kilograms. This is the difference between the permitted total weight and the empty weight of the vehicle, including driver, passengers and fuel.
The distinction between these two concepts is practically important. For example, you may have a cargo space big enough for your materials, but if those materials are too heavy, you exceed the allowed payload. It can also be the other way around: you still have room left in weight, but your cargo space is already full. This is especially relevant for a double-cab van, as the extra seats and passengers already eat up part of the payload.
When calculating the payload, you subtract the empty weight (including driver, passengers and fuel) from the maximum permitted total weight. An example: if your van has a total weight of 3,500 kg and an empty weight of 2,300 kg (with full tank and driver), you have a payload of 1,200 kg. Are you sitting with five people in the double cab? Then add about 400 kg extra to the unladen weight, and you're left with 800 kg for your cargo.
The difference between theoretical capacity and actual usable space is common. On paper, the payload may seem ample, but in practice, accessories such as a towbar, roof rack or extra equipment also take up weight. These options reduce the available payload as they increase the empty weight.
How many kilos can you load in a double cab van?
Most popular double-cab van models have a payload between 500 and 1,200 kilograms. The exact capacity depends on the make, engine version and options chosen. A lighter engine and base version usually provide more payload capacity than a heavier diesel engine with luxury options and four-wheel drive.
The double cab itself affects payload. The extra row of seats and the longer body add weight, at the expense of what you can load. Compared to a single cabin of the same model, you lose 200 to 400 kilograms of payload capacity on average. This is the price you pay for the comfort of extra seats.
A practical calculation example: suppose you have a Ford Transit Custom double cab with a total weight of 3,200 kg and an unladen weight of 2,100 kg. Without passengers, you theoretically have 1,100 kg of payload. Are you driving with four colleagues (80 kg per person on average)? Then 320 kg is subtracted, leaving you with 780 kg for materials and tools.
Factors that affect the payload include the engine version (a heavier engine increases the empty weight), the options chosen such as air conditioning or an automatic transmission, and fitted accessories. For example, a towbar adds 20 to 30 kg, a roof rack can weigh 40 to 60 kg, and sidebars will cost you another 30 to 50 kg. These small additions accumulate and reduce your actual load capacity.
How do you calculate whether you have enough loading capacity for your business?
Start by taking stock of your typical daily loads. Make a list of the materials, tools and equipment you regularly transport, and weigh or estimate their weight. Don't forget to include the weight of packaging, pallets or crates. Add the weight of your colleagues who travel with you in the double cab as standard.
Take future growth into account. As your business expands, you might take on more materials or get heavier assignments. So choose a double-cab van that is not only adequate now, but will still be suitable in a year or two. A margin of 10 to 20 per cent extra payload gives you flexibility without having to invest in a heavier vehicle right away.
Note the legislation. In the Netherlands, an ordinary B driving licence allows you to drive vehicles up to 3,500 kg total weight. If you exceed this, you will need a different driving licence. Also check whether your company car is BPM-free, which applies to vehicles up to 3,500 kg used primarily for goods transport. Overloading can have legal consequences, such as fines and points on your driving licence.
Safety also plays a role. An overloaded van brakes worse, steers less stably and wears out faster. Make sure you always stay within the permitted limits, not only to avoid fines, but also to protect yourself, your colleagues and other road users. Weigh your vehicle regularly, especially after fitting new accessories or changes in your daily load.
What happens if you overload a double cab van?
Overloading your double-cab van brings significant risks with it. Braking distances become longer, stability decreases and the risk of tyre blowouts or suspension damage increases. In an emergency stop or sudden manoeuvre, an overloaded van can react unpredictably, creating dangerous situations.
Legally, you risk a hefty fine if you are checked. The police and the Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) carry out regular checks, where overloading can result in fines of hundreds to thousands of euros, depending on the degree of overloading. For serious offences, they may even require you to reduce the load on the spot before you are allowed to continue driving.
Your insurance can cause problems when you are overloaded. If you get into an accident while your van is overloaded, the insurer may deny or reduce benefits. This means you are left to pay for the damage to your vehicle, cargo and any other parties involved. Your insurance cover often depends on complying with legal requirements.
The impact on your vehicle is significant. Overloading accelerates the wear of brakes, tyres, suspension and transmission. Tyres can overheat and tear, brake discs wear faster, and the suspension can suffer permanent damage. These repairs not only cost money, but also cause your commercial vehicle to break down, disrupting your operations.
To avoid overloading, there are some practical steps you can take. Weigh your vehicle regularly at a public weighbridge, especially after adding accessories or when changes are made to your standard load. Keep a log of the weight of your fixed equipment and materials so you always know how much room you have left. Check your tyre pressure and the state of your suspension, as these often signal if you are structurally overloading.
How we help find the right load capacity
At Van Den Hurk, we understand that choosing a double cab van that perfectly suits your loading needs is not always easy. That's why we offer personal guidance and transparent information to help you make the right choice.
- Comprehensive offer: With over 400 commercial vehicles in stock, including various models double cabins, you will always find a vehicle to suit your specific cargo capacity and seating needs.
- Personalised advice: Our advisers take the time to understand your business situation. Together, we take stock of what you transport daily, how many colleagues travel with you, and what accessories you need, so that we can calculate exactly what payload you need.
- Transparent specifications: We clearly state the payload, total weight and unladen weight of every vehicle in our stock. So you know exactly where you stand and can make an informed choice.
- Test capabilities: We invite you to test drive a loaded van so you can experience how the vehicle behaves with your typical load and number of passengers.
- Stock alert service: Is your ideal double cab van not listed? Use our stock alert function and automatically receive a notification as soon as a suitable vehicle becomes available.
With more than 60 years of experience, we know what entrepreneurs need. Contact us today via our website or visit our showroom in Helmond. We will be happy to help you find the double cab van that perfectly suits your cargo capacity and business needs.
