Does My Business Need A Dropside Or Tipper? Or Maybe Both?

Vanaways
Vanaways
3rd Jul 2023
Does My Business Need A Dropside Or Tipper? Or Maybe Both?

Both dropside and tipper vans are extremely durable and useful commercial vehicles. But, what’s the real difference? And which one will suit your business’ needs better? Keep reading our breakdown of dropside and tipper vans to find out how they can be useful to you!

What’s The Difference Between A Dropside & A Tipper?

Dropside and Tipper vans can often be confused, so, what’s the real difference?

In short, tipper vans have a more open body and an underfloor tipping system, allowing them to tip the back of the vehicle body and unload heavy loads easily. Tipper vans are good for light construction and transporting materials or tools.

Dropsides, on the other hand, have tailboards that drop down on the sides of your vehicle, letting you remove your load directly off the van, rather than tipping. Dropsides are great for anyone operating a forklift, and are extremely durable.

What Industries Might Need These Kinds Of Vans?

Both Tipper and Dropside vans are extremely useful to different industries, and some industries can benefit from both!

Tipper Vans

Extremely popular in construction industries, Tipper vans are great for transporting materials such as sand, gravel, or other loose materials. In keeping with this, they are great for landscaping businesses too. For bulky, loose materials that you want to transport efficiently, a Tipper could be the way to go.

Dropside Vans

Dropside vans are also popular for construction companies, as they can transport heavy materials such as bricks and aggregates, making them a great builder’s van. They can make life a lot easier for scaffolding projects and other heavy construction jobs. They have good accessibility for forklifts too.

Who Says You Can’t Have Both?

If you work in a construction or landscaping industry, or another trade that would require you to have a dropside and a tipper van, then having both could benefit your day to day working life. Although their differences are slight, they hold a lot of similarities and can be used for transporting your construction materials and goods in a reliable fashion.

If you’re feeling unsure about which van type you might need, you can contact us here at Vanaways for expert and unbiased advice.

Vanaways

At Vanaways, we supply a range of new and used vans, from drop sides and tippers to sprinters and electric vans. We have a wide range of ready to use quality vehicles, including fleet vans for sale. Our experienced team will deliver a personal and attentive service to help you with your requirements.

For further enquiries about the services we offer or the vehicles we sell, feel free to contact us today!

Vanaways Reviews

   
Lynne S

Lynne S

04 March 2026

"First time using Vansaway! I was in a bit of a panic as my van broke down and I was unable to fix it. My van is my livihood, so I looked into leasing and contract. I wish I done it sooner. I spoke to Jonathan as my first point of contact. I couldn't have got any luckier having him as my support. He was absolutely fantastic, he went above and beyond to help me. He was easy to contact and would always reply when I had any concerns or questions. His knowledge on all vehicles was impeccable, which made things easier. He listened to what I wanted and needed and explained everything thoroughly help me making the right choice in plan and kept in touch throughout the entire process! He knew I was in desperate need of a van and he did not disappoint and kept his word and I was able to get my new van delivered as soon as possible. Enjoying the drive. Its great about the perks involved in having a contract hire as well! Thank you so much for everything! Highly recommend, vans are just not how they use to be, so its great to have a brand new van along with the support of any engine faults things like that. A huge stress off my shoulders being sole trader."

Mike Collins

Mike Collins

18 February 2026

"Excellent service from start to finish. Rob was very helpful throughout the purchase of our Ford Transit tipper. Can’t recommend them enough. Mike Collins."

John Owens

John Owens

17 October 2025

"Fantastic service from start to finish. Liam took the time to listen to the vehicle that I wanted. Within 2 weeks the right vehicle was sourced and delivered Joe was on point with work out the logistics and taking care of my part ex with exception customer service Thank you both"

Sarah Ward

Sarah Ward

01 September 2025

"We have used Vanaways on two occasions now and the customer service has always been great. I contacted them as our team grew and withing 2 weeks we had the vans in our yard. Quick and efficient service all round. Tyler in the delivery department kept me up to date throughout the process. Would certainly recommend."

4.8 out of 5 from 481 reviews
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