They say moving a couch is equal parts strategy, strength, and a good dose of luck. But thanks to having the new Ford Transit Custom by my side, it’s not just a move – it’s a moving experience. Freshly equipped with cutting-edge features, generous cargo space, and customer-inspired innovations, the Transit morphs the chaotic chore of moving into a seamless symphony of efficiency, style, and comfort.
Getting Started: The Space Wizard. From the moment you open the immense cargo space of the Transit Custom, magic happens. With load volumes ranging from 5.8 to 6.8 cubic metres depending on your van size – SWB or LWB, respectively (mine was the former) – there’s no need to do the dreaded “couch Tetris”. The ample area was clearly designed with furniture in mind, whether you’re moving your Aunt Barb’s oddly-proportioned vintage sofa that defies geometry, or in my case, a brand-spanker from iFurniture. For that extra-long couch leg? The smart load-through feature under the passenger seats ensures a maximum load length of 3,450 mm. Finding room is no longer the first battle; the Transit has already won it for you.
The Load-in: Elegance Meets Ergonomics. Picture this: drivers in height-restricted areas like multi-story parking lots or urban garages often suffer the claustrophobic panic of maneuvering vans. But with an overall height below two meters and a stiffer, lightweight platform, the Transit Custom glides into these spots with grace. The sliding side door, now with hands-free operation, transforms awkward load-ins into a hands-free marvel as you manage awkward angles or carry one end of the couch shouting “PIVOT!” like Ross from Friends. What’s more, the Transit comes loaded with parking sensors, keeping you and it safe from tight space harm.
The Drive: Cruise Control for Your Furniture. Now comes the move itself. The comfort-centred interior, featuring independent rear suspension and impeccable traction, ensured that I didn’t feel every pothole as I traversed the town from Manukau to Albany. And on that, if you’re tackling city traffic, the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go allows for stress-free driving as the Ford Transit glides along highways and pauses at traffic-clogged roads.
And if you find yourself navigating the chaotic Auckland streets stacked with delivery trucks, the 360-degree camera and Cross-Traffic Assist turn you into a precision maneuvering mastermind – avoiding obstacles like a ninja. Concerned about cyclists or daredevil pedestrians? Ford’s Exit Warning ensures nobody gets caught off guard as you adjust your parking.
Loading Wisdom: Practicality Meets Tech. The almost ‘lavish’ interior is dotted with nifty tech, like a 13-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto because, well, even a coffee-fueled moving playlist needs convenience. And Ford Pro’s Telematics system will also remind you to drive responsibly should your attention slip (it’s always watching – kindly, of course).
Despite dodging the rain and the horrible Auckland traffic that ensues, and regardless of the ‘high gust’ wind warning on the bridge, both the new couch and I made to the house safely and actually remarkable calm. The combination of huge loading space, a grunty powertrain and a really upmarket cabin, made the couch moving experience, a moving experience – because Ford Transit Custom delivers – literally.
