Here are 10 tips to guide contractors in upfitting their vehicles:

1. Determine what storage solutions are needed based on the contractor’s business practices. First, contractors should analyze their business needs and decide what type of storage equipment is needed based on what their jobs normally entail.

2. Do not automatically accept pre-fabricated storage equipment configurations deemed typical for the respective industry. If not satisfied with what the pre-fabricated storage units offer, users should ask the vehicle upfitter for more product selections. Typically, upfitters offer 30 to 40 products skus, when in reality there are many more product options. Some manufacturers offer more than 300 skus. The upfitter should be able to contact the distributor to request information on more storage equipment.

3. Is a bulkhead required for safety or security reasons? Bulkheads protect the driver’s compartment from the cargo area and from shifting loads that could possibly injure passengers. Bulkheads also have the added benefit of providing more security to the vehicle. If a bulkhead is needed, what kind is required? Contractors can choose from a screen, window or a windowless bulkhead. 

4. Based on the size of tools, users need to decide if installing drawers, bins and/or shelves is appropriate. Nuts and bolts and other small items are best stored in bins. Larger items such as hand tools and fittings should be stored in drawers. If drawer units are installed, contractors should consider using drawer dividers to separate items from each other. Drawer units that store heavy items should be low and off the wall of the vehicle; this helps with low center of gravity for safe vehicle operation and performance.

5. Since valuable tools are stored in the van, a user should think about installing a storage area that can be secured. A storage area that locks, using locking storage drawers, is an option that provides extra security. 

6. Does a workbench need to be installed? Contractors need to gauge their need for a workbench for their projects. Is the contractor’s work done on the jobsite, or does he need a space in the van to return to as a work area before installing on the jobsite?

7. Consider what storage equipment is needed on the outside of the van. If ladder racks are needed, users need to determine what type of ladder rack will best suit their needs. A high van needs a ladder rack that can be easily accessed, perhaps one that allows the user to pull the rack down to retrieve the ladder. 

8. What kinds of accessories, if any, are needed? There are a variety of accessories to consider when upfitting a van, including: wire spool racks, hooks, literature holders, a spare tire chock, a hard hat rack, a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit tray, an extension cord bracket, a spare tire bracket or a safety reflector kit. 

9. When picking storage equipment, think about product quality and brand reputation. Make sure that products are made of durable materials, such as steel. Check to see if a company is dedicated to making improvements to its product line, and that it offers a warranty on its products.

10. Pick a trustworthy, reputable van upfitter. How long has the upfitter been in the business? How familiar is he with the vehicle to be upfitted? What is the tenure of the installer? Also, find out if the upfitter guarantees his work. If possible, get recommendations from peers who have upfitted their vans. A good reputation increases the chance of getting quality results.

Another option for the contractor is to use 3-D, Web-based configuring software to custom-design work vans with shelving, cabinets, ladder racks and accessories. Users visualize the design through interactive graphics and can print the design drawing and the list of materials needed. When the initial design process is finished, both the user and the upfitter have the opportunity to preview the design and make any necessary changes without committing to the actual implementation of the design plan. This process saves time and money for both parties and achieves the desired results for the contractor.