Van
A van is a vehicle for transporting goods that is often relatively small is in size. The word comes from a shortening of caravan which around the mid 1800's referred to covered a goods transporter typically pulled by a horse. Today the word van is commonly used to describe a small transport vehicle, often used by trades. More formally these may also be referred to as a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV).
There are a variety terms to describe the range of vehicles that might be referred to as vans.
- large / medium / small van
- mini van
- compact van
- long / short wheel base van
- combi van
- crew van
- trade van
- transit van
- luton van
- box van
- dropside van
- side opening van
- camper van
- refrigerated van
- transporter van.
- electric van
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.
New guidance for professional practice, cultural change and regulation in social housing.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.