How big is the back of a minivan?

In practical terms, the back of a minivan typically offers about 30–40 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use, around 80–90 cubic feet with the second row folded, and roughly 100–150 cubic feet when both rear rows are folded flat, depending on the model and year.

That range reflects different interior layouts, seat configurations, and the size of the cargo opening. Shoppers and owners should note that exact figures vary by trim, generation, and whether the seats are up or down. The rest of this article breaks down typical volumes by model and then looks at opening and floor dimensions that affect what you can physically carry.

Cargo space by model: a snapshot of typical figures

The following figures illustrate cargo behind the third row (with seats up), cargo behind the second row (with the third row folded), and maximum cargo with both rear rows folded. Values are approximate and year/model dependent.

• Chrysler Pacifica: about 32 cubic feet behind the third row; about 86–87 cubic feet behind the second row; maximum around 140–141 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat.


• Honda Odyssey: about 32–33 cubic feet behind the third row; about 89–90 cubic feet behind the second row; maximum around 144–145 cubic feet with rear rows folded.


• Toyota Sienna: about 33 cubic feet behind the third row; about 75–76 cubic feet behind the second row; maximum around 101 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.


• Kia Carnival: about 40–44 cubic feet behind the third row; about 86–87 cubic feet behind the second row; maximum around 145 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

Conclusion: Among popular models, everyday use (third-row in place) sits in the low 30s cubic feet, with significant gains when you fold second-row seating, and a ceiling around 100–150 cubic feet depending on the vehicle.

Physical dimensions that affect what fits in the back

Beyond volume, the size of the cargo opening and the interior floor layout matter for bulky items. Typical minivans share similar, but not identical, dimensions: a cargo opening width between wheel arches often in the 40–50 inch range, a loading-height range around 30–40 inches, and a cargo floor length that can shift from 4–5 feet with seats up to 6–8 feet with rear rows folded. These figures help determine whether a stroller, box, bike, or suitcase set will fit without removing seats.

Opening width, height, and floor length to consider

These practical measurements summarize what you’ll actually encounter when loading and unloading items:

• Opening width (between wheel wells): typically 40–50 inches (102–127 cm).


• Opening height: roughly 30–40 inches (76–102 cm), depending on hatch design and hinges.


• Floor length with rear rows up: commonly about 4–5 feet (120–150 cm).


• Floor length with rear rows folded: commonly about 6–8 feet (180–240 cm).

Tip: If you’re transporting unusually long items, measure the item and compare to the vehicle’s stated cargo length and opening dimensions for a safe fit.

Practical guidance for choosing a minivan based on back space

When evaluating minivans for cargo needs, consider both volume and access. A model with a larger maximum cargo capacity may still present a tighter opening or higher floor height that makes loading awkward. Conversely, a vehicle with slightly smaller maximum cargo space but a wide, low loading floor and a generously wide opening can feel more practical for frequent heavy-lifting or bulky items.

Summary

Biggest takeaway: the back of a minivan offers versatile space that scales with seating configuration. Plan for about 30–40 cubic feet with the third row in use, roughly 80–90 cubic feet with the second row folded, and a maximum around 100–150 cubic feet with both rear rows folded, depending on the model. Openings are typically about 40–50 inches wide, with loading heights around 30–40 inches, and floor lengths that extend from 4–5 feet up to 6–8 feet when seats are folded. For the most accurate assessment, check the exact model year and trim specifications for cargo volume and opening dimensions.

Can a 4x8 fit in a minivan?

Yes, a 4x8 sheet can fit in many minivans, but it depends on the specific model and requires folding down or removing seats to create enough space. Most modern minivans, especially larger ones like the Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Pacifica, and Toyota Sienna, can fit a 4x8 sheet inside when the rear seats are folded or removed.
 
How to fit a 4x8 sheet

• Fold or remove seats: The most crucial step is to fold down the rear seats to create a long, flat cargo area. In some cases, you may need to completely remove the middle and rear seats for the best fit. 
• Slide front seats forward: You may need to slide the front seats forward to get the extra length needed to fit the sheet inside and close the rear gate. 
• Consider the interior width: Be mindful of the interior width. While a 4x8 sheet will fit lengthwise, it might be a very tight fit width-wise, especially with some materials. 
• Check specific model dimensions: The ability to fit a 4x8 sheet varies by model, so check the dimensions of your specific minivan. Some older or smaller models might not have enough room. 

Vehicles known to fit 4x8 sheets

• Dodge Grand Caravan: Fits a 4x8 sheet with seats folded. 
• Chrysler Pacifica: Fits a 4x8 sheet when the rear seats are folded flat. 
• Honda Odyssey: Fits a 4x8 sheet with seats folded and/or removed. 
• Toyota Sienna: Fits a 4x8 sheet with rear seats removed and/or folded, and can even fit longer 10-foot boards if the seats are adjusted correctly. 
• Ford Transit Custom: A common trades van that has the internal length to carry 4x8 sheets. 
• Vauxhall Vivaro LWB: Another van model suitable for hauling 4x8 sheets. 
• Volkswagen Transporter: A van model that can accommodate 4x8 sheets. 

What are the dimensions of the back of a minivan?

The size of a minivan's back varies by model, but typically it ranges from about 30 to 40 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, up to 140 to 150 cubic feet when all rear seats are folded down. Specific dimensions include a height of around 38 to 48 inches and a length of 84 to 92 inches, depending on the model and configuration.
 
This video shows the cargo capacity of a Toyota Sienna in inches: 56sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Mar 28, 2023
Cargo space

• With all seats up: Around 32 to 40 cubic feet. 
• With the third row folded: Around 85 to 90 cubic feet. 
• With both second and third rows folded: Up to 140 to 150 cubic feet. 

Example dimensions

• Chrysler Pacifica: 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, or 140.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The length from the rear to the front row is 92 inches. 
• Honda Odyssey: 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, or 144.9 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. 
• Toyota Sienna: 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, or up to 150 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. 

This video demonstrates how to fit sheetrock in a minivan: 45sThe Landlords Workshop YouTube · Jan 19, 2023

How much luggage can fit in the back of a minivan?

Minivan luggage capacity varies by model and configuration, but generally ranges from 32 to 150 cubic feet. Capacity increases significantly when rear seats are folded or removed, with some models offering over 140 cubic feet of maximum space. For example, a typical minivan can fit 4-5 large bags and 3 small bags with all seats occupied, notes Orbit Car Hire.
 
Minivan luggage capacity by model (with seats up and folded)

• Toyota Sienna: Ranges from 33.5 to 101 cubic feet with seats up, and up to 150 cubic feet max. The middle row seats are not removable on newer models. 
• Kia Carnival: Offers 40.2 to 145.1 cubic feet with seats up and max capacity, and the middle row seats are removable. 
• Honda Odyssey: Has 32.8 to 140.7 cubic feet with seats up and up to 144.9 cubic feet max. The middle row seats are removable. 
• Chrysler Pacifica: Provides 32.3 to 140.5 cubic feet with seats up and max capacity, including the hybrid version. 
• Mercedes-Benz Metris: Has between 37.43 to 182.9 cubic feet with seats up and max capacity. 
• Ford Transit Connect: Ranges from 16.3 to 106 with seats up and up to 123.2 cubic feet max. 

Tips for maximizing space

• Fold or remove seats: This dramatically increases cargo space, often more than doubling the initial capacity. 
• Pack smart: Organize luggage efficiently to fit more items. For example, try fitting 6 roller bags in a Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica, or Toyota Sienna. 
• Use the full height: The height of the cargo area can be significant, so pack vertically as much as possible. 

Can you fit a couch in the back of a minivan?

A couch or sofa of 6 feet in length can be fitted, when the second row of the minivan seats is slid all the way forward. Unless your sofa is designed for having a taller back, the height of a usual couch/sofa is not an issue.