Van operators need to invest in their businesses

Van operators still invest in their businesses, anything that improves the efficiency of a van driver going about his business must be considered, no matter what van there in, whether its Mercedes Vito van or ford ranger van.  Of equal importance is making sure that the van users have safe tools for the job – a ‘claim culture’ is becoming ingrained into our society and an employee is more likely to consider claiming against their employer when money is tight.  A well-designed and installed racking system can help in both of these areas.

Internal racking can be highly adaptable and suits a wide range of uses.  For industry on the move, a well-fitted van can become a mobile workshop with stock and tools stowed away tidily and safely.  According to sales director, Ray James at Van Guard, “Builders, electricians and plumbers are the biggest users of racking, but increasingly, mobile repair companies, aerial and cable businesses, gardeners, florists, valets, mechanics and window cleaners are now benefiting from a well racked out van. “

He continues, “Mercedes Vito vans racking units usually come in a modular basis meaning they can be tailored to match customers’ needs.  Our range is comprised from four designs to choose from, offering a combination of shelves with dividers, drawers, and or bespoke plastic trays each with four removable inserts.”  All Van Guard’s units come pre-assembled and are free standing; making them suitable for other applications, such as keeping workshops tidy.

Richard Issitt, Sales & Marketing Director at Bri-Stor Systems, said:  “Racking systems have helped today’s vans develop into full-scale mobile workshops and are proving successful in a diverse range of industries including the automotive, general building, landscaping and utility markets. By installing them, companies can make substantial financial savings and productivity gains as effective storage can prevent tradesman from having to spend valuable time searching for tools, materials or equipment in the back of a cluttered van.

Encouragingly a number of other racking companies we spoke to have seen an increase in vehicle conversion demand.  Tevo, for example has recently expanded with the opening of their new Conversion Centre in additional new premises. Dan Barber, UK & Export Sales Manager, said; “Our hard work in securing existing and new business has paid dividends and we are delighted to be opening our new conversion centre, with an additional capacity of 45,000 square feet. This has enabled us to significantly increase our capability in handling our larger fleet conversions as well as our holding compound by the same amount. The benefit this brings to our customers is a much quicker and more efficient turnaround of vehicle conversions therefore minimising each vehicle’s off the road time.