What Are The Dimensions Of A Penske Van? Your Comprehensive Guide to Moving and Hauling cars.truckstrend.com
Embarking on a move or tackling a large hauling project often brings with it a familiar question: "What size truck do I need?" Among the top contenders for rental vehicles, Penske stands out for its well-maintained fleet and reliable service. However, the success of your endeavor hinges significantly on understanding the precise dimensions of a Penske van. Choosing the right size isn’t just about fitting your belongings; it impacts fuel efficiency, driving comfort, safety, and ultimately, your budget.
This comprehensive guide will demystify the various Penske van sizes, providing a detailed breakdown of their interior and exterior dimensions, capacities, and other crucial considerations. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to select the perfect Penske vehicle for your specific needs, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
What Are The Dimensions Of A Penske Van? Your Comprehensive Guide to Moving and Hauling
Understanding Penske’s Fleet: A Van for Every Need
Penske offers a range of moving trucks and cargo vans, each designed to accommodate different hauling volumes. Knowing the exact dimensions of each model is paramount for effective planning, packing, and execution. Let’s delve into the specifics of their most popular options.
1. The Penske Cargo Van: Small but Mighty
Often overlooked for larger moves, the Penske Cargo Van is perfect for smaller tasks, urban deliveries, or supplemental hauling. Think studio apartments, dorm rooms, or transporting large purchases.
- Interior Dimensions (Loading Space):
- Length: Approximately 9 ft 6 in
- Width: Approximately 4 ft 6 in (between wheel wells) to 5 ft 4 in (widest point)
- Height: Approximately 4 ft 5 in
- Door Opening Dimensions:
- Rear Door Width: Approximately 4 ft 4 in
- Rear Door Height: Approximately 4 ft 1 in
- Payload Capacity: Up to 2,500 lbs
- Towing Capacity: Not typically designed for towing
- Fuel Tank: Around 26 gallons (gasoline)
- Estimated MPG: 15-20 MPG (varies significantly)
- Exterior Dimensions (Approximate):
- Length: 19 ft
- Width: 6 ft 8 in
- Height: 7 ft 6 in (important for low clearances)
Ideal For: Small studio apartments, dorm rooms, local deliveries, moving appliances, or supplementing a larger move.
2. The Penske 12-Foot Truck: The Compact Mover
Stepping up in size, the 12-foot box truck is a popular choice for individuals moving a one-bedroom apartment or a few large pieces of furniture. It offers more upright space than the cargo van.
- Interior Dimensions (Loading Space):
- Length: Approximately 12 ft
- Width: Approximately 6 ft 10 in (between wheel wells) to 7 ft 6 in (widest point)
- Height: Approximately 6 ft 1 in
- Door Opening Dimensions:
- Rear Door Width: Approximately 6 ft 1 in
- Rear Door Height: Approximately 5 ft 10 in
- Deck Height (from ground): Approximately 2 ft 5 in
- Payload Capacity: Up to 3,100 lbs
- Towing Capacity: Up to 6,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
- Fuel Tank: Around 35 gallons (gasoline)
- Estimated MPG: 10-14 MPG
- Exterior Dimensions (Approximate):
- Length: 20 ft
- Width: 8 ft
- Height: 9 ft 6 in
Ideal For: Studio to 1-bedroom apartments, small office moves, or moving large furniture pieces.
3. The Penske 16-Foot Truck: The All-Rounder
The 16-foot truck is arguably Penske’s most versatile and frequently rented size. It strikes a balance between maneuverability and ample cargo space, making it suitable for 2-3 room homes.
- Interior Dimensions (Loading Space):
- Length: Approximately 16 ft
- Width: Approximately 7 ft 6 in (between wheel wells) to 7 ft 10 in (widest point)
- Height: Approximately 7 ft 5 in
- Door Opening Dimensions:
- Rear Door Width: Approximately 7 ft 3 in
- Rear Door Height: Approximately 6 ft 10 in
- Deck Height (from ground): Approximately 2 ft 9 in
- Payload Capacity: Up to 4,300 lbs
- Towing Capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs
- Fuel Tank: Around 35 gallons (gasoline)
- Estimated MPG: 8-12 MPG
- Exterior Dimensions (Approximate):
- Length: 25 ft
- Width: 8 ft 5 in
- Height: 10 ft
Ideal For: 2-3 room homes, medium-sized apartment moves, or transporting multiple large appliances and furniture.
4. The Penske 22-Foot Truck: For Larger Homes
When your move involves a 3-5 bedroom house, the 22-foot truck becomes a serious contender. It offers significant volume, reducing the need for multiple trips.
- Interior Dimensions (Loading Space):
- Length: Approximately 22 ft
- Width: Approximately 8 ft (between wheel wells) to 8 ft 1 in (widest point)
- Height: Approximately 8 ft 1 in
- Door Opening Dimensions:
- Rear Door Width: Approximately 7 ft 6 in
- Rear Door Height: Approximately 7 ft 5 in
- Deck Height (from ground): Approximately 3 ft
- Payload Capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs
- Towing Capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs
- Fuel Tank: Around 50 gallons (diesel, typically)
- Estimated MPG: 6-10 MPG
- Exterior Dimensions (Approximate):
- Length: 33 ft
- Width: 8 ft 6 in
- Height: 12 ft
Ideal For: 3-5 bedroom homes, large apartment moves, or substantial commercial deliveries.
5. The Penske 26-Foot Truck: The Ultimate Mover
Penske’s largest offering, the 26-foot truck, is designed for the biggest moves—typically 5-7+ bedroom houses or large commercial freight. It boasts the most cargo volume and highest payload capacity.
- Interior Dimensions (Loading Space):
- Length: Approximately 26 ft
- Width: Approximately 8 ft (between wheel wells) to 8 ft 1 in (widest point)
- Height: Approximately 8 ft 1 in
- Door Opening Dimensions:
- Rear Door Width: Approximately 7 ft 6 in
- Rear Door Height: Approximately 7 ft 5 in
- Deck Height (from ground): Approximately 3 ft 1 in
- Payload Capacity: Up to 12,500 lbs
- Towing Capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs
- Fuel Tank: Around 50 gallons (diesel, typically)
- Estimated MPG: 6-10 MPG
- Exterior Dimensions (Approximate):
- Length: 36 ft
- Width: 8 ft 6 in
- Height: 12 ft 6 in
Ideal For: Large 5-7+ bedroom homes, multi-family moves, or significant commercial freight.
Practical Advice and Actionable Insights
Knowing the dimensions is just the first step. Here’s how to apply this knowledge effectively:
- Inventory Everything: Before even looking at dimensions, make a detailed list of everything you plan to move. Don’t forget oddly shaped items like L-shaped sofas, grand pianos, or large exercise equipment.
- Measure Your Largest Items: This is crucial. Your couch or refrigerator might dictate the minimum height or width you need. Ensure they can fit through the truck’s rear door opening.
- Use Penske’s Online Tools: Penske’s website often provides visual guides and room-by-room estimators to help you determine the right truck size based on the number of rooms you’re moving.
- Consider Weight, Not Just Volume: While volume is often the primary concern, don’t forget payload capacity. Heavy items like books, appliances, and safes can quickly add up.
- Account for Towing: If you plan to tow a car or trailer, ensure the truck you choose has the appropriate towing capacity and hitch receiver. Penske offers car carriers and tow dollies.
- Factor in Exterior Dimensions: Remember bridge clearances, tunnel heights, and parking space availability. The largest trucks (22-foot and 26-foot) can be challenging to navigate in urban environments or tight residential streets. Always check routes for low overhead obstacles.
- Don’t Underestimate (or Overestimate) Your Needs:
- Underestimating: Leads to multiple trips, wasted time, extra fuel costs, and potential damage from overpacking.
- Overestimating: Means paying more for a larger truck than you need and potentially struggling with maneuverability, though having extra space is often better than too little. When in doubt, go one size up if your budget allows.
- Packing Smartly: Use appropriately sized boxes. Disassemble furniture where possible. Load heavy items first, distributing weight evenly over the axles. Utilize vertical space.
Penske Van Dimensions & Key Specifications
This table provides a concise overview of the critical dimensions and capacities for Penske’s most common rental vehicles. Please note that dimensions are approximate and may vary slightly by specific model year.
| Penske Van Type | Interior Length (approx.) | Interior Width (approx.) | Interior Height (approx.) | Payload Capacity (approx.) | Towing Capacity (approx.) | Fuel Tank (approx.) | Est. MPG | Exterior Length (approx.) | Exterior Height (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo Van | 9 ft 6 in | 4 ft 6 in – 5 ft 4 in | 4 ft 5 in | 2,500 lbs | N/A | 26 gal (Gas) | 15-20 | 19 ft | 7 ft 6 in |
| 12-Foot Truck | 12 ft | 6 ft 10 in – 7 ft 6 in | 6 ft 1 in | 3,100 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 35 gal (Gas) | 10-14 | 20 ft | 9 ft 6 in |
| 16-Foot Truck | 16 ft | 7 ft 6 in – 7 ft 10 in | 7 ft 5 in | 4,300 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 35 gal (Gas) | 8-12 | 25 ft | 10 ft |
| 22-Foot Truck | 22 ft | 8 ft – 8 ft 1 in | 8 ft 1 in | 10,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 50 gal (Diesel) | 6-10 | 33 ft | 12 ft |
| 26-Foot Truck | 26 ft | 8 ft – 8 ft 1 in | 8 ft 1 in | 12,500 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 50 gal (Diesel) | 6-10 | 36 ft | 12 ft 6 in |
Note on Pricing: Penske van rental prices are highly variable and depend on numerous factors, including:
- Location: Pick-up and drop-off points.
- Date & Season: Peak moving seasons (summer, end of month) are more expensive.
- Duration: Daily, weekly, or long-term rentals.
- Mileage: Most rentals include a per-mile charge.
- Availability: Demand can influence rates.
- Add-ons: Insurance, moving supplies, towing equipment.
It is essential to get a direct quote from Penske’s website or by phone for accurate pricing for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the smallest Penske van available?
A1: The smallest Penske vehicle is the Cargo Van, offering approximately 9 ft 6 inches of interior loading length.
Q2: Do all Penske trucks come with a loading ramp?
A2: No, not all. The larger box trucks (typically 12-foot and up) come equipped with a walk-up ramp. The Cargo Van does not.
Q3: What is the typical clearance height for Penske trucks?
A3: This varies by truck size. The smallest Cargo Van is around 7 ft 6 in tall, while the largest 26-foot truck can be up to 12 ft 6 in tall. Always be aware of overhead clearances, especially under bridges, in parking garages, and at drive-thrus. Look for clearance signs, often marked with "Maximum Height."
Q4: Can I tow my car with any Penske truck?
A4: Most Penske box trucks (12-foot, 16-foot, 22-foot, 26-foot) are equipped for towing and can be rented with a car carrier or tow dolly. The Cargo Van is generally not recommended or equipped for towing. Always confirm towing capacity for your chosen truck and vehicle.
Q5: How do I estimate what size Penske van I need?
A5: The best method is to create an inventory of all items you plan to move, paying special attention to the largest pieces. Penske’s website has a "Truck Wizard" or "Size Estimator" tool that can help you based on the number of rooms or specific items. When in doubt, it’s often better to go slightly larger than too small.
Q6: Are Penske trucks automatic transmission?
A6: Yes, all Penske rental trucks and vans are equipped with automatic transmissions, making them easier to drive for most individuals.
Q7: Do Penske trucks require a special driver’s license?
A7: For personal use, no. A standard Class D driver’s license (or equivalent in your state/province) is sufficient to operate all Penske rental trucks, as they fall under non-CDL vehicle classifications.
Conclusion
Understanding the dimensions of a Penske van is not merely a technical detail; it’s the foundation of a successful, efficient, and cost-effective moving or hauling project. From the compact Cargo Van to the formidable 26-foot truck, each Penske vehicle is designed for specific capacities and purposes. By carefully assessing your belongings, measuring your largest items, and leveraging the detailed dimension information provided, you can confidently select the perfect fit. This meticulous planning will not only save you time and money but also provide peace of mind, ensuring your valuable possessions arrive safely at their destination. Drive smart, pack smart, and make your next move a breeze with the right Penske van.
