High roof (high top) cargo vans are super versatile and used for a variety of light to medium-duty freight. Here are the most common types of cargo/freight typically hauled in them:
Types of Freight for High Top Cargo Vans:
- Expedited Freight
- Time-sensitive shipments
- Usually smaller loads that need fast delivery
- Perfect for same-day or overnight freight
- Parcel & Small Package Delivery
- Used by couriers (like FedEx, Amazon, UPS)
- Bulk deliveries of boxed goods or e-commerce orders
- Medical Supplies & Equipment
- Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT)
- Pharmaceuticals, lab samples, or hospital supplies
- Electronics & Tech Equipment
- Computers, servers, or high-value electronics
- Often requires careful handling
- Retail & Consumer Goods
- Store restocking or product distribution
- Clothing, beauty products, accessories, etc.
- Automotive Parts
- Used for local dealership runs or warehouse transfers
- Construction Materials or Tools
- Light equipment, tools, and fixtures for job sites
- Event Equipment
- Speakers, staging, lighting, and other rental gear
Typical Load Specs:
- Payload Capacity: ~3,000 to 4,000 lbs (varies by van)
- Cargo Volume: 300–500+ cubic feet
- Length: Can usually fit pallets (but not always standard-sized)
In the U.S., there are several popular high roof (high top) cargo vans that are widely used in the cargo/freight industry. Here’s a rundown of the main models available:
High Roof Cargo Van Models Available in the U.S.:
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter High Roof
- One of the most popular in the industry
- Available in multiple lengths: 144″, 170″, and 170″ Extended
- Strong payload and towing capacity
- Diesel and gas options
- Great for long-distance and expedited freight
- Ram ProMaster High Roof
- Front-wheel drive (better traction in snow)
- Cargo lengths: 136″, 159″, and 159″ Extended
- Wide cargo area — great for upfitting
- Popular with last-mile delivery and trades
- Ford Transit High Roof
- Available in Regular, Long, and Extended lengths
- Gas and EcoBoost (turbo) options
- Offers All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Strong contender in courier and delivery sectors
- Nissan NV3500 High Roof (Discontinued after 2021)
- Still on the road and available used
- Good payload and towing capacity
- Spacious and durable, but limited aftermarket support now
Key Comparison Points
| Model | Max Cargo Height | Max Cargo Length | Payload (approx.) |
| Sprinter 170 Ext | ~79″ | ~189″ | ~3,000–4,500 lbs |
| ProMaster 159 Ext | ~77″ | ~146″ | ~3,000–4,000 lbs |
| Transit High Roof Ext | ~81.5″ | ~172″ | ~3,000–4,300 lbs |
| NV3500 | ~76.9″ | ~120″ | ~3,000+ lbs |
If you’re hauling freight or looking to get into cargo van work, these models are your go-to options. Sprinter is king for OTR (over-the-road) loads, Transit is super versatile, and ProMaster wins on cargo width and low maintenance.
High Roof Cargo Vans Main Specs
| Model | MB Sprinter 2500 | RAM ProMaster 2500 | Ford Transit 2500 |
| Engine | V2.0 Diesel : 211 hp | 3.6L V6 24V VVT Gas : 276 hp | 3.5L V6 PFDI/Ecoboost Gas : 275/310 hp |
| Transmission | Automatic 9-G TRONIC | Automatic 9-Spd 948TE | Automatic 10-Spd |
| Driveline | RWD/AWD | FWD | RWD/AWD |
| GVWR (lbs) | 9,050 lbs | 8,900 lbs | 9.150 lbs |
| Payloads (lbs) | 3,781÷4,134 lbs | 4,820 lbs (max) | 3,473÷3,747 lbs |
| Cargo volume (cu. ft.) | 374 cu. ft. | 463 cu. ft. (max) | 453 cu.ft. (max) |
| Overall dimensions H x L x W (inches) | 107/111″ x 234″ x 92″ | 92.8″ x 213.7″ x 112.2″ | 110″ x 235″ x 97″ |
| Cargo dimensions H x L x W (inches) | 79″ x 133″ x 53/74″ | 77″ x 120″ x 75″ | 81″ x 134″ x 55″/+ |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 144″ | 136″ | 148″ |
| MSRP (Base+)* | $64,050 | $50,195 | $55,805 |
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) listed are current as of April 2025 and sourced directly from official manufacturer websites. Please note that these prices may vary depending on the state due to factors such as destination charges, taxes, and local fees. The Base+ prices include certain upgrades focused on enhanced safety features and improvements to the cargo area of the vans.
If you’re hauling freight or looking to get into cargo van work, these models are your go-to options. Sprinter is king for OTR (over-the-road) loads, Transit is super versatile, and ProMaster wins on cargo width and low maintenance.
If you’re running one or planning to get into it, these vans are ideal for independent courier work, expedited freight, or local/regional delivery. Want help finding loads or info on dispatching for vans like this? Sign up for our membership to receive updates on new load opportunities and dispatches for light and midweight freight.
