How to convert a panel van into a mobile workshop for trades

Here at The Van Discount Company, we’ve been providing great van deals for 30 years now, and in that time, we’ve sold our fair share of panel vans. Versatile and reliable, they’re perfect for commercial use and are especially popular for tradespeople and mobile services. If you’re looking for a new van for your business, the panel van could tick every box. So, what do you need to consider? Let’s break it down. 

Choose the right van for your profession and consider sector-specific additions

The truth is, how you choose to convert your panel van into a mobile workshop entirely depends on your profession and your exact requirements. Even before you buy the van, you’ll need to consider how much space and payload capacity you need – after all, what works for an electrician won’t necessarily work for a mobile catering company.

When it’s time to start the conversion, take the time to sit down and consider exactly what you need from the space. Depending on your job, the changes can range from fairly straightforward to more complex. For example, if you’re using your panel van for your floristry or catering business, you’ll need a fridge van, which is a significant project. Similarly, if you’re a dog groomer looking to add a wall-mounted dryer, the process can take a lot of planning and time. Some changes, like adding a workbench, can be comparatively simpler. Planning early means that you know what to expect and can choose your van and conversion additions accordingly. 

If necessary, add a bulkhead

When buying a panel van, you’ll be able to see whether or not it has a bulkhead. The bulkhead is the partition between the passenger area and the cargo area, and it’s essential for organisation, security and safety. Say, for example, you’re a builder, travelling from job to job and storing your equipment in your vehicle. The partition creates a dedicated space for tools and materials, adding another surface for storage solutions like racking – it also blocks passers-by from seeing your cargo and helps to prevent theft. Most important of all, it keeps you safe. If you brake suddenly or get in a crash, any unsecured, heavy tools go flying – without the protection of a partition, you’re facing potentially serious injuries. Though most panel vans come with a bulkhead, if yours doesn’t, getting one fitted should be a priority. 

Add lighting and power

If you’re looking to use your panel van as a mobile workshop, then power is essential. When choosing a power solution, it’s a good idea to really consider your daily electricity consumption – after all, the last thing you need is to run out of power halfway through the day. Luckily, there are a range of options available, including portable power stations, auxiliary battery systems and power inverters. 

Many tradespeople like electricians and locksmiths perform intricate tasks in their mobile workshop, so visibility is also key. Proper lighting also allows you to efficiently find what you need, when you need it. LED lights are a particularly popular choice in mobile workshops because of their durability and energy efficiency. Consider LED bars for general lighting and both puck lights and under-cabinet strip lighting for spaces like workbenches that need more concentrated illumination. 

Make the most of your space with well-thought-out storage 

Depending on your profession, your panel van will need a decent amount of storage to keep your tools and materials organised, streamlining your workspace and allowing you to work more efficiently. It’s always helpful to consider what tools or equipment you are using the most and organise accordingly – for example, place more frequently used tools in easily accessible spots, like near the van’s doors. With solutions like shelving units and racks, you can reduce clutter and optimise your space fully. Things like ceiling storage and wheel arch lockers allow you to use even more of your panel van and are perfect for tradespeople. 

Looking for a new panel van for your business? We’re here to help. Here at The Van Discount Company, we stock a range of panel vans from leading manufacturers like Citroen, Ford and Renault. We make finding your new van straightforward, and we can even save you up to 30% off RRP. Visit our website to explore our extensive variety of deals, or give us a call on 01282 872 530 today, and we’ll get you started!