Whats the difference between a Ford Transit and a Ford Transit Custom?
The Transit is Ford's full-size van designed for higher payloads and longer cargo, while the Transit Custom is a smaller mid-size option that is easier to maneuver in cities and handles lighter loads.
Understanding the differences between these two Ford vans helps fleets and tradespeople choose the right tool for the job. This article compares size, capacity, engines, body styles, market availability, and typical use cases to clarify where each model fits best.
Size, capacity and cargo space
Here’s a quick guide to how the two vans compare in bulk, without getting lost in model years and options:
- Transit: larger footprint with multiple wheelbase and roof height options, offering more interior cargo volume and higher payload capacity.
- Transit Custom: smaller, more compact footprint designed for urban deliveries and easier parking, with less cargo volume and lower payload than the Transit.
- Body configurations: Transit comes in vans, chassis cab, and minibus formats; Transit Custom also offers van and passenger variants but in a smaller size class.
- Roof variants: both offer standard and high/medium roof options, but the Transit typically provides higher ceilings for bulky loads.
In practice, the Transit is favored for trades requiring bulkier pallets or heavier goods, while the Transit Custom suits daily urban routes and tighter streets where maneuverability matters.
Engine options, drivetrain and fuel choices
Before outlining the engines, note that availability varies by market and model year; the two lines share a family of eco-friendly engines but are tuned for different duties:
- Transit: broader engine lineup including more powerful diesels and gasoline options, plus electrified variants in many markets (the E-Transit) for zero-emission urban fleets.
- Transit Custom: efficient diesel and gasoline options tailored for urban use, with electrified variants available in some regions; overall emphasis on low running costs for frequent city duty cycles.
- Transmission choices: both generally offer manual and automatic/dual-clutch options depending on market and trim, with AWD being less common but available in select configurations for some markets.
For operators evaluating total cost of ownership, fuel economy and range are often the deciding factors, with the E-Transit generally targeting longer electric-range routes while the Transit Custom’s powertrains focus on city deliveries and shorter ranges.
Design, dimensions and body styles
The two vans differ in overall size and available body styles, shaping practical use on the road:
- Transit: available in multiple lengths and roof heights, including long wheelbase variants and extended versions, enabling substantial cargo volumes.
- Transit Custom: a shorter, narrower option with a tighter turning circle and easier access to urban spaces; usually offered in van and passenger variants but with smaller cargo floors than the full-size Transit.
- Passenger variants: both offer kombi/crew-cab configurations, but the Transit Custom’s passenger variants are sized to match its compact footprint.
Market nuance note: In North America, Ford primarily offers the full-size Transit family; the Transit Custom and its European-style configurations are typically sold in Europe and other regions rather than the U.S. market.
Pricing and market positioning
The pricing reflects the size gap and the target professional use-cases, with the Transit typically commanding higher sticker prices due to its larger capacity and more extensive option lists:
- Transit: positioned as a premium, high-capacity fleet van with expanded configuration options, suitable for logistics, trade services, and long-haul duties.
- Transit Custom: positioned as a more affordable, city-friendly alternative that lowers operating costs and improves fleet density in urban contexts.
Prices vary by market, trim, drivetrain, and whether electrified variants are included, so a dealer quote is the best way to compare specific configurations.
Which should you choose?
When deciding between the Transit and Transit Custom, consider the trade-offs between space, payload, and maneuverability:
- Choose Transit if you need maximum cargo space, higher payload, and longer-range capability, and you regularly transport bulky goods or operate from larger loading docks.
- Choose Transit Custom if you primarily work in cities or on short-haul routes, value a tighter turning circle, easier parking, and lower operating costs, and your cargo can be accommodated in a smaller footprint.
Both models benefit from Ford’s dealer support, modern driver-assistance tech, and a common service ecosystem, making it easier to switch between sizes within a fleet if operations evolve.
Summary
The Ford Transit and Transit Custom occupy different ends of Ford’s van lineup. The Transit is a full-size workhorse with greater cargo space and payload, built for fleet operations, long trips, and heavier loads. The Transit Custom is a mid-size urban workhorse offering easier handling, lower running costs, and sufficient cargo capacity for city-based deliveries. Understanding your typical routes, load types, and parking constraints will help you pick the right platform.
Summary of key takeaways: size and payload, engine and electrification options, body styles, and market availability should guide which van aligns with your business needs.
Appendix: Notable market differences
Europe vs North America
In Europe, both Transit and Transit Custom are commonly offered, with a broad range of wheelbases, roof heights, and body styles. In the United States, the lineup focuses on the full-size Transit family, while European-style Transit Custom models are typically not sold in the U.S. market.
