A messy van slows you down. Wasted minutes searching for that one tool or trying to make space for new gear might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it adds up. Tradespeople depend on their vans every single day, so when tools, fittings, or cable reels are scattered everywhere, the job becomes that little bit harder. That’s why getting your storage system sorted isn’t something to leave for later.
One of the best ways to do that is through custom racking. A system that’s built to suit your work can make life easier and help you get more done without the stress. It’s not about cramming in as much as possible. It’s about creating a setup that works for you, saves time, and creates order. Below are a few ways to start thinking smart about your van storage and how to build something that works long term.
Before you start bolting in shelves or drawing up plans, it’s worth stepping back and looking at what you actually need. Not every trade is the same, and neither are the tools, parts, or jobs that come with it. One person’s perfect layout could be completely wrong for someone else. That’s why a bit of planning now will save loads of time and effort later on.
Start by checking what equipment you use every day. Some items will only come out once or twice a week, while others are grabbed every job. Keep an eye out for the things you move the most, grab without thinking, or always need within reach. These often go in the easiest-to-access spots like shelves near doors or lower compartments.
Here’s a quick list to help guide your thinking:
Once you’ve got a rough list, measure your van’s interior from top to bottom. Open the doors, see where you walk, and try to visualise how you’ll move inside when it’s fully loaded. Consider marking out potential storage zones using tape or cardboard just to get a feel for what works and what doesn’t.
Taking a little extra time here means fewer adjustments later. Once shelves are in, it’s more hassle to rearrange them. So it’s smart to really study how you use your van before deciding where things go.
Once your tools and materials are mapped out, it’s time to decide where everything lives. This is where a solid plan makes all the difference. A well-planned layout means you can work faster, carry more safely, and reduce stress during your day.
Grab pen and paper or graph paper and sketch things out. Think of the van as a small mobile workshop where everything has its place. Start visualising zones: left and right sides, the bulkhead, floor, roof, and rear doors. These areas can serve different purposes depending on what you carry.
A few good layout tips include:
Balance matters, too. Too much weight on one side makes a van harder to handle and wears out tyres faster. Spread the load between left and right, front and back. This not only protects your van but makes for smoother driving.
Let’s say you’re a plumber. You’ve probably got power tools, pipe fittings, solvents, maybe a boiler flue kit. You’ll need a long space for pipes—either inside the van or fixed on the roof. Deep racking could hold your heavier gear, while smaller compartments are perfect for fittings and clips. Thinking this way means every job starts off smoother.
Planning your layout isn’t about perfection. It’s about making your daily routine easier and shaving off the seconds that add up to real time over the long run.
The materials you use for racking will shape how durable and practical your van becomes. You need something that holds up under pressure but doesn’t weigh you down. It should stand strong through rough roads and constant use without quickly wearing out.
Metal is a popular choice for many trades, especially those that deal with heavier gear. It’s strong, long-lasting, and capable of taking a lot of weight. You won’t need to worry about warping or cracking, and it handles knocks well.
Wood, on the other hand, is easier to customise. You can cut and shape it to suit specific tools or create clever compartments. It’s lighter in some cases, and it offers a more tailored feel, particularly if you’re looking to build your own layout from scratch.
Think about modular racking systems, too. These setups let you adjust shelf sizes or add/remove units as your work changes. They’re practical if your day-to-day tools shift over time or if you pick up a new type of job that needs different storage.
Whatever you choose, make sure your materials work for you, not against you. The goal is to make daily work faster and less frustrating.
With a plan drawn up and your materials chosen, you’re ready to get everything into place. Solid installation is key. Loose racks or uneven shelves can create hazards and distractions while you drive.
Start by making sure you’ve got all the tools you need:
Install large base items first. Think shelving frames, overhead trays, or dividers. These are the backbone of your system and provide structure to build on.
Test weight loads as you go. If a shelf is going to carry multiple tools or boxes, give it a trial run to see how it holds. Fasten into structural support areas inside the van rather than thin wall panels, which can be damaged or may not hold weight.
Watch out for common errors like uneven shelving, mismatched fasteners, or forgetting to space things out correctly. Each of these can lead to bigger issues down the road, like gear shifting in transit or racks pulling loose.
To reduce rattling or unwanted movement, consider adding non-slip mats or rubber dampeners beneath and between shelves. These small additions can make your drive quieter and your racking more dependable.
Once your setup is in place, don’t forget to check it now and then. Even strong fixings work loose over time, and constant movement will test even the best systems.
Check bolts and screws every few weeks or at least monthly. If anything feels wobbly, tighten it up. This prevents damage and keeps everything safe during travel.
Make a habit of clearing out tools or items you no longer use. It’s easy to build clutter, and before you know it, you’re wasting time digging through gear you haven’t reached for in months. Set aside time every few months for a quick review.
Adapting your storage system as your jobs change is just as important. Maybe you picked up new equipment that needs a spot, or maybe an old tool broke and left an empty bin. Keep your van aligned with your current way of working.
A tidy and well-maintained racking setup says a lot about how seriously you take your craft. It can even boost customer confidence when they see you’re organised and ready to go.
A well-planned racking system is more than just a tidy-up job. It’s a way to make your van a true extension of how you work. With your tools easy to reach, space used wisely, and fittings that hold steady, the benefits show up in every part of your day.
The real time and energy savings come not just from how it looks but how it works. You’ll find mornings go quicker, jobs move faster, and the end of the day feels a bit less hard.
With regular checks, updates, and thoughtful changes, your van keeps up with your trade every step of the way. It’s not just storage. It’s strategy. And when everything has its place, it gives you the space to focus on what really matters—doing the job right.
For tradespeople looking to optimise van space with efficient solutions, consider exploring our options for custom racking for a van. At Demar Van Products, we understand every van and trade has unique needs. Whether you’re after something long-lasting or tailored to fit your tools, check out our range to find what works best for your work vehicle.
