10ft vs 14ft vs 24ft Lorries: How to Choose a Size
Choosing the right lorry size depends on what you are moving, how much it weighs and where it needs to go. This guide compares the three main deck sizes so you can narrow down the options before requesting a quote.
Published specifications
Compare cargo space and overall vehicle height
| Vehicle | Published option | Cargo bay, L × W × H | Overall height | Tail lift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft Lorry | 1 tonne | 3.08 x 1.56 x 1.95 m | 2.95 m | Optional |
| 14ft Lorry | 2 tonnes | 4.3 x 1.95 to 2.1 x 1.7 to 2.4 m | 2.9 to 3.5 m | Optional |
| 24ft Lorry | 6 tonnes | 7.5 x 2.35 x 2.57 to 2.7 m | 3.9 m | Included |
| 24ft Lorry | 9 tonnes | 7.3 x 2.5 x 2.1 to 2.6 m | 3.6 to 4.1 m | Included |
For the 24ft 6-tonne option, our published loading guidance recommends cargo below 5,000 kg. Confirm the permitted cargo load for the assigned vehicle before booking. Read the 24ft loading guidance.
Cargo dimensions describe the loading space. Check the assigned vehicle, opening dimensions, cargo weight and site clearance before booking.What the sizes mean
The 10ft, 14ft and 24ft names are nominal lorry-size labels. Compare the actual published cargo-bay dimensions rather than relying on the label alone. The overall vehicle is longer than its cargo space because it includes the cab.
Check three things: internal cargo length, width and height; permitted cargo weight; and overall vehicle height. Also confirm the opening dimensions and loading access for the assigned vehicle.
Internal cargo dimensions
The comparison above draws the internal dimensions, overall height and loading guidance from the existing vehicle pages. Measure your largest items and estimate the total cargo weight before selecting an option. For published hourly prices and an indicative hire calculation, use the rates and estimator.
Send your measurements, estimated weight and access restrictions with your enquiry so the vehicle and loading arrangements can be confirmed.
Cargo and access checklist
Record your requirements and confirm the assigned vehicle and handling arrangements with Omni Global.
- Item names and quantities
- Length, width and height of the largest items, with units
- Estimated weight per item and total cargo weight
- Pickup and delivery addresses and contact people
- Requested date and time window
- Loading bay, doorway, lift and overhead clearance at both locations
- Steps, stairs, distances and other access constraints
- Loading and unloading help or equipment you need quoted
Print this checklist and fill in your notes before requesting a quote.
Choosing by what you are moving
Start by comparing the 10ft option for smaller loads, the 14ft option when you need more cargo space, and the two 24ft options for larger loads. Furniture, appliances or equipment do not automatically fit a particular size: quantities, dimensions, weight and loading access determine the choice.
The two 24ft options have published 6-tonne and 9-tonne labels. For the 6-tonne option, published loading guidance recommends keeping cargo below 5,000 kg. Confirm the permitted cargo load for the assigned vehicle before booking.
A compact but heavy load can reach its weight limit before it fills the floor space.
Vehicle height and site access
The overall vehicle height determines whether the lorry can enter car parks, loading bays and covered driveways. Heights differ across the fleet:
- 10ft lorry: approximately 2.95 m
- 14ft lorry: 2.9 to 3.5 m
- 24ft lorry (6 tonnes): approximately 3.9 m
- 24ft lorry (9 tonnes): 3.6 to 4.1 m
Check the clearance at both your pickup and delivery locations before requesting a quote. If the site has a low ceiling, a covered driveway or a ramp, include the height restriction when you contact us so we can confirm which vehicle fits.
Confirm the assigned vehicle before booking
Published dimensions describe the fleet in general terms. The actual vehicle assigned to your job may vary within the ranges shown for each size.
Before booking, tell us what you are moving, the approximate weight, the dimensions of your largest items and any access restrictions at both ends. We will recommend a lorry size, confirm the specific vehicle and its capacity, and provide a final quote.
Minimum hire is 2 hours during office hours and 3 hours after office hours.
Is cargo-bay height the same as overall vehicle height?
No. Cargo-bay height describes the loading space. Overall vehicle height is needed when checking an entrance, loading bay or covered driveway. Confirm the assigned vehicle, its openings and the route clearance before booking.
What is the difference between the two 24ft lorry options?
The two published options have different cargo-bay dimensions, overall heights and loading guidance. Compare their existing service pages and confirm the assigned vehicle. The 6-tonne option retains a recommendation to keep cargo below 5,000 kg; do not treat the option label as permission to exceed that guidance.
How do I know which lorry size is right for my items?
Measure the length, width and height of your largest items and estimate the total weight. Compare these against the internal dimensions and weight capacities in the comparison table. If you are unsure, send us the details and we will recommend a size.
Related services and planning resources
Free quotation
Tell us what you are moving.
The more we know, the tighter the quote. Useful details:
- What you are moving and roughly how much
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Date and time window
- Whether you need extra manpower or a tail lift