Have you ever looked into the back of your van and thought, “There must be a better way to organise this?” If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re not alone. In the world of tradesmen, the van is more than just a vehicle; it’s a mobile office, a tool shed, a supply closet, and sometimes even a lunchroom. With so many roles to fill, it’s essential to make the most out of every inch of space available.
However, as many tradespeople will attest, organising a van is often easier said than done. Tools, supplies, spare parts – each demands its own space, and finding a place for everything can feel like trying to solve a 3D jigsaw puzzle that’s different every day.
But what if we told you that there’s a way to turn this challenging task into an art form? A method to not just ‘fit’ everything in, but to create a streamlined, efficient workspace on wheels?
Welcome to the world of van space optimization. With a combination of practical tips, innovative solutions, and a dash of creativity, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve. And as experts in plywood van racking, we’re here to guide you on this journey to unlock the full potential of your mobile workspace.
So, buckle up and get ready to transform your van from a chaotic storage space into an organised, efficient, and productive haven.
Understanding Your Needs: The Key to Optimal Van Organization
Before diving into the world of van racking, it’s important to take a step back and assess what you actually need. After all, the right storage solution should be tailored to your specific requirements. Here’s a guide to help you define your needs:
- Workflow: Understanding your daily routine and workflow can help optimise your van’s layout. For instance, if there are tools or supplies you use frequently, you may want these items easily accessible.
- Inventory Assessment: Start by taking stock of what you typically carry in your van. Are they large tools and equipment or smaller items?Do you have numerous fixings or fittings that require their own compartments? Do you need space for ladders or sheet materials?
- Value Consideration: Are there high-value items that need to be protected? If so, you might need to consider storage solutions that include lockable compartments or security vaults.
- Van Size and Type: The size and type of your van will dictate what kind of storage solutions you can implement. Consider factors like the height, width, and length of your van’s cargo area.
- Flexibility and Future Expansion: Consider not just your current needs, but potential future needs as well. If your inventory changes often, you may want a more versatile and adjustable racking system. Furthermore, as your business grows and evolves, your storage needs may change, so consider choosing a solution that allows for future expansion.
- Budget: While not the only factor, your budget will play a role in determining what kind of storage solutions you can afford. However, remember that a well-organised van can increase efficiency and productivity, which can save you money in the long run.
Exploring the Options: Tailoring Your Storage Solution to Your Needs
Hand tools/Power tools: A comprehensive storage solution recognises the need for quick access and secure transit. For boxed tools, angled shelves serve as a popular choice, accommodating a variety of toolboxes such as DeWalt Tstak, Stanley Fatmax Organisers, and Festool Sustainers. These shelves secure the toolboxes during transit while allowing easy access. For tools not stored in boxes, a false floor featuring a pull-out drawer is an excellent alternative, offering a concealed yet accessible storage space.
Fixings and Fasteners: Organising small fixings is simplified by using plastic organisers like Stanley Fatmax Organisers. These can be conveniently stored on angled shelves for effortless access. For those needing versatility, our organiser-style shelving with adjustable dividers provides a solution that adjusts to your changing needs.
Hoovers/Vacuums: Accommodating cleaning equipment necessitates a flexible solution due to the varying sizes of vacuums. Adjustable racking, equipped with a front lip or bungee strap, ensures that your equipment stays in place during transit.
Larger Items (Boilers/Generators etc): If your inventory includes larger items, consider a half-length false floor that provides full-height space near the bulkhead. For those not opting for a false floor, ensure sufficient space is left between driver-side and passenger-side racking. Shallow passenger-side racking can be a beneficial compromise, providing storage while accommodating larger items.
Sheet Material: Multiple options exist for transporting sheet materials. A popular choice is the false floor, designed to house sheet material and accommodate ladders when not in use. Flip-up false floors offer temporary storage for sheet material, while roof racks present an external storage solution for those with limited internal space.
High-Value Items: Security is paramount for high-value items. Our false floor drawers are equipped with a lockable compression latch, offering an increased level of security. For those desiring an additional level of protection, security vaults like the Armorgard TKD1, often built into the false floor, offer peace of mind.
Miscellaneous Items: If you carry a diverse range of items, general-storage racking with front lips designed to secure goods during transit could be the solution. Another versatile choice is our standardised Euro containers, offering medium-sized, durable boxes secured on angled shelving for easy access. Other common misc items can be stored using added extra storage on the end of your racking or your ply lining.
Spotlight on False Floors: Maximising Space and Organisation
False floors can be a game-changer in your van storage strategy. These innovative solutions offer a structured approach to managing your van’s floor space, effectively eliminating clutter and enhancing organisation. Let’s explore two main types: half-length and full-length false floors.
Half-Length False Floors
Offering the best of both worlds, a half-length false floor provides a structured organisational solution while still preserving a full-height section of your van. This design allows for easy access to the van, particularly beneficial when paired with internal racking.
Key features of half-length false floors often include integrated drawers, providing additional storage space for tools and equipment. They are also designed to accommodate long items like ladders or piping through dedicated sections.
Pros:
- Improved organisation without sacrificing full-height space.
- Allows easy access to the van and internal racking.
- Additional storage options with integrated drawers.
- Accommodates long items like ladders and piping.
Cons:
- Only half of the van’s floor is organised, potentially leaving the remaining half susceptible to clutter.
- Limited storage capacity compared to full-length false floors.
- Full-Length False Floors
Adding the Finishing Touches to Your Storage System
Once you’ve chosen the primary elements of your van storage system, don’t forget about the little extras that can make a big difference. These finishing touches enhance the usability of your van, turning a good storage solution into a great one.
At Yoke Van Kits, we offer an array of add-ons to complement your main storage system. For instance, consider our versatile end pots. Available in various sizes, these handy compartments attach to the end panels of your van racking, providing additional storage for those small items you need to grab quickly.
In addition, we also provide purpose-built holders for silicone and spray cans. These holders not only keep your cans organised but also ensure that they’re easily accessible when you need them.
These additions may seem small, but they can significantly streamline your workflow, making your daily tasks quicker and easier. So, as you design your van storage system, remember to consider these finishing touches. They could be the key to creating a van setup that truly works for you.
Summing Up: The Power of Personalised Van Storage Solutions
Selecting the right van storage layout is a highly individualised process, as it needs to accommodate your unique needs and preferences. Making the right choice not only simplifies your daily workflow, but also brings immense benefits in terms of productivity and efficiency.
A crucial aspect to consider is adaptability. As your business grows and evolves, so do your storage needs. That’s why at Yoke Van Kits, we’ve committed ourselves to designing versatile and adaptable storage solutions that can change and grow with you.
We’re excited to announce the upcoming launch of our patent-pending system in June. This system is designed to maximise flexibility, allowing you to adapt your storage solutions as your needs evolve.
In line with this, we’re also re-launching a newly redesigned website, www.yoke-van-kits.co.uk, that will provide an interactive platform for you to design and choose the layout that best suits your needs.
By choosing an adaptable and versatile storage solution, you’re investing in the future growth and success of your business. We’re thrilled to accompany you on this journey, offering innovative solutions to meet your changing needs.
