Cargo Vans vs. Box Trucks

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What is a cargo van? How does it differ from a box truck? What is best for my business? When shopping for a commercial vehicle for your business or fleet, you'll have plenty of questions as you compare your vehicle options. 

The main differences between cargo vans and box trucks are size and cargo accessibility. The experts at Southport Truck Group have compiled a quick overview to help you decide on the perfect commercial vehicle. 


What is a Cargo Van?

A cargo van, such as the Sprinter Van, emulates a traditional vehicle because the cargo area and cabin are connected as a single piece. On the outside, cargo vans typically have a sliding side door and large rear doors to access cargo. These vehicles are often used by plumbing, electrical, general contractors, and catering businesses. 


What is a Box Truck?

Box trucks are aptly named for their box-shaped cargo area. ON box trucks, the cargo area is set on a frame completely separated from and not accessible for the cabin's interior. Roll-up doors on the rear of box trucks allow easy loading and unloading. Their ability to carry high volume and large items makes them frequently used by moving companies. 


What Are the Benefits of a Cargo Van?

  • Smaller Size. Since cargo vans are more compact than box trucks, it's easier to park in tight spaces and move through alleyways or crowded parking lots. Additionally, they tend to be more maneuverable in the sometimes congested Tampa Bay area traffic.  

  • Accessibility. In a cargo van, you can reach back for an item from the cargo area while in the cabin area. While some cargo vans have separators, the cargo area is conveniently accessible from the inside of the vehicle in most vans. With a box truck, the cargo area is only accessible from the vehicle's rear. 

  • Familiar Handling. A cargo van drives just like a standard van. If you're used to driving a sedan throughout Tampa - St. Petersburg rather than a commercial vehicle, the cargo van's traditional handling should appeal to you. 

  • Customization. With a cargo van, you can upfit your vehicle with partitions or shelving and drawers to organize supplies. Due to customization, cargo vans can transport a wide range of tools and supplies that need to be kept close at hand, so they're perfect for teams of workers who are always on the go.

  • CDL Not Required. If you purchase a box truck for your fleet, you must have a driver with a Class B CDL (commercial driver's license). However, a CDL is not required to drive a cargo van, provided the weight is under 26,000 pounds. 


Find Your Sprinter at Southport Truck Group!

When you are ready to invest in a new or pre-owned Sprinter Cargo Van, our friendly and knowledgeable Southport Truck Group staff will ensure your experience is an outstanding one. Our team is here for you, from purchasing a new or used vehicle to keeping your vehicle on the road. 


Visit our website to view our current inventory, or call us today at 813-262-0890 (Tampa) / 239-210-9480 (Fort Myers), so we can help you find the perfect Sprinter Van to fit your business needs.

 

Southport Truck Group is an authorized Sprinter dealership in Southwest Florida.


Sources:

https://www.badgertruck.com/model-comparisons/box-trucks-vs-cargo-vans/ 

https://www.mileatruck.com/blog/pros-and-cons-box-trucks-and-cargo-vans 

https://www.galaxytoyota.net/manufacturer-information/box-trucks-vs-cargo-vans/ 

https://www.busbeetruckparts.com/blog/what-difference-between-box-truck-and-cargo-van 
Location: 7528 US-301, Tampa, FL 33637, USA

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