What is a transit Custom 300?
The Transit Custom 300 is Ford’s compact van in the Transit Custom lineup, representing a 3,000 kg gross vehicle weight class. It’s designed for urban deliveries and trades, offered in several wheelbase and roof-height configurations, with a range of diesel engines and available automatic or manual transmissions.
Understanding the 300 designation
The numbers Ford uses on Transit models indicate the vehicle’s weight/capacity tier within the lineup. In the Transit Custom, the 300 badge is typically used for mid-range GVW versions around 3 tonnes, balancing payload with size and efficiency. It is not a separate body style, but a weight-class designation within the same family.
Key points about the 300 designation include:
- GVW around 3,000 kg, targeting a mid-range payload for urban work.
- Front-wheel drive is common for efficiency and load handling.
- Available in multiple wheelbase (short and long) and roof heights (standard and high) to fit cargo needs.
In practice, the 300 designation helps fleets match a van’s capacity with their daily routes and loading patterns.
Configurations and dimensions
Transit Custom 300 vans are offered in a range of configurations to suit different cargo volumes, access points, and operational requirements. The main choices involve wheelbase length and roof height, plus optional crew/cab configurations where available.
- Short wheelbase (L1) and long wheelbase (L2) variants to optimize cargo length and maneuverability.
- Standard roof (H1) and high roof (H2) options for taller cargo or stacking.
- Van-only and crew-cab setups in some markets for small teams.
Choosing the right combination affects cargo space, payload, and daily usability in city or regional routes.
Engines, drivetrain and technology
Across its recent generations, the Transit Custom 300 has relied on Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel family, offered in multiple power outputs. Powertrains are paired with manual or automatic transmissions, with modern variants emphasizing efficiency and connectivity via Ford’s latest multimedia and driver-assistance features.
- 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engines with a range of outputs to match payload and performance needs.
- Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive not typically offered on most Transit Custom 300 configurations.
- Manual and automatic transmission options, with newer models prioritizing smoother automatic shifts and efficiency.
Technology features commonly include the SYNC infotainment system, rear-view camera, and driver-assistance options such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, depending on trim and market.
Practical use and market position
In Europe and other markets where Ford sells the Transit, the Transit Custom 300 is aimed at tradespeople and fleets needing a reliable, versatile cargo van that remains relatively compact for urban driving. It’s commonly used for parcel delivery, service work, and small business logistics, thanks to a balance of cargo capacity, driving ease, and modern safety tech.
- Popular for trades such as plumbing, electrical, and parcel delivery due to its usable cargo area and efficiency.
- Suitable as a base for conversions, including refrigerated or specialized configurations.
- Favored by fleets for their lower operating costs and easy servicing compared to larger vans.
When evaluating a Transit Custom 300, consider cargo space, payload, wheelbase, roof height, engine choice, and available driver-assistance features relevant to your operations.
Buying tips and what to watch for
Whether you’re buying new or used, inspect service history, payload capacity, load-floor condition, and overall wear. For business use, evaluate whether the wheelbase and roof height choices align with typical routes and garage access, and check for the availability of fleet-friendly tech options.
- Verify payload rating matches typical daily loads.
- Test-drive with the planned cargo to assess handling under load.
- Review safety and driver-assistance features for fleet, insurance, and driver training needs.
Overall, the Transit Custom 300 offers a flexible platform that can be tailored to a wide range of urban and regional transport tasks.
Summary
The Transit Custom 300 is the mid-weight variant within Ford’s Transit Custom family, designed for a balance of cargo capacity and city-friendly dimensions. It typically uses a 3,000 kg gross vehicle weight class, is offered in multiple wheelbase and roof-height configurations, and employs EcoBlue diesel engines paired with manual or automatic transmissions. For fleets and trades, the 300 provides a versatile, efficient base van capable of adapting to many daily transport needs.
