Fitting out vans for the self-employed

Your business requires you to be on the road on a daily basis and requires special equipment. Your commercial vehicle must therefore adapt to the requirements of your profession. Car manufacturers offer a wide range of commercial vehicles, but they are virtually empty. It’s up to you to design them to make your work easier and more productive.

The answer is simple: your vehicle is your workshop. You therefore want to find order and structure, save time and be more professional. In this case, space optimisation, storage and fastening possibilities, as well as safety, are all important. All conversions and retrofits are provided by companies who are specialised in this field, and are done on new or used vehicles. Rentals of this type of vehicle are practically non-existent due to the particular needs of the different professions. The image of your van is also important for your customer; in fact, it is just like a business card.

Different companies offer a multitude of solutions to best meet your needs. They analyse your needs, suggest pre-defined kits and adapt to your specific requirements while ensuring that everything is feasible. The safety and quality of the conversion remain the priorities. Depending on the make of your vehicle, we can offer you a range of customisable layouts. 

Once they have been converted, the commercial vehicle will not generally need to be re-approved unless you have modified a safety element (seating, lights, position of the plate, cutting of a cross-member, etc.) or there is a need to decontaminate it.

There are many companies providing these services, each offering specific features.

Here are some examples:

• floor, protective walls and anti-theft grids
• electrical installations and lighting
• insulation, additional heating or cooling
• autonomous energy (compressor, generator)
• interior fittings with drawers and structured shelving (kits or made-to-measure)
• loading ramps
• roof racks
• ladder or glass doors
• securing of cargo
• lighting and signalling
• window installation
• safety locks
• solar panels
• cameras and GPS
• towbars
• miscellaneous accessories such as paper dispensers, cable holders, jerry can holders
• adhesive branding

Converting your van requires some thought. Some providers allow you to configure online, view your layout in 3D, show you demo vehicles and advise you on how to make the most of your cargo space.

Depending on the modifications you want, you will need to ask for a quote, but you will also need to think about these factors:

• choice of materials (wood, aluminium, steel, polyester, plastic, etc.) and durability
• the time-frame for completion of the works
• compliance with standards and guarantees
• after-sales service and availability for repairs

You can also convert your van yourself if you have the skills to do so, and there are many websites and videos out there to provide you with ideas. Happy working!