For most people ordering a new panel van, a bulkhead is a sensible choice: it improves safety, reduces noise, helps the cab heat up quicker, and can make the load area more secure. The main reasons to skip one are if you regularly carry long items into the cab space, or you need maximum flexibility for specialist conversions.
What a bulkhead actually does
A bulkhead is the solid (or mesh) partition behind the seats. In a sudden stop, it helps stop tools, parcels or racking contents from flying into the cab. That’s particularly relevant if you do multi-drop work or carry loose kit.
Comfort and running benefits
With the cab separated from the load area, you usually get:
- Less road and load noise (solid bulkheads are best for this).
- Better heating efficiency in winter because you’re not trying to warm the whole van.
- Better security, as the load space is harder to access from the cab if a door is forced.
Trade-offs to think about
Load length: A full bulkhead limits how far you can slide long items. If you often carry ladders, pipes or timber, consider a bulkhead with a load-through hatch (common on new vans) or a mesh bulkhead depending on your needs.
Conversions: If you’re ordering a crew van, welfare spec, or camper-style conversion, the builder may prefer a different partition arrangement. Check before you place the factory order.
What to choose when ordering new
If you carry tools or anything that could move under braking, go solid + hatch where possible. If rear visibility matters (e.g. city work), a glazed bulkhead can help, but it may be noisier than solid.
Follow-up questions to ask yourself: Do you need to carry 3m+ items weekly, and will you be fitting racking? Your answers usually make the bulkhead decision obvious.
