Van racking ideas for Locksmiths
What do you carry in your van?
Van racking ideas for locksmiths. Best starting point is to think about what is carried onboard and needs to be included in a racking design. Locksmiths normally carry a substantial quantity of key blanks alongside lock mechanisms, lock picks, extension tools and extractors etc. There needs to be room found for key cutting machines, a grinder perhaps and maybe other essential equipment. It can be beneficial therefore, to make a bit of a list as part of the planning process.
Van floor and lining
To safely bolt racking in a van a good quality floor is needed, ideally at least 12mm marine grade material. VRS replacement floors are 12mm marine grade are resin coated and marble grey finished, often referred to as phenolic flooring. VRS floors are anti slip and easy to keep clean plus enhances the appearance, above all it makes for an altogether nicer space to work in. Standard ply lining is suitable for racking to be fixed too but there are better options. For instance polyethylene lining kits are lighter than ply and easily wiped clean to keep the inside looking smart.
What sort of racking and storage works for you?
With an idea of what needs to be accommodated think about how items will be stored. Tools can be stored in Steel drawers, a comprehensive choice of depths,widths and heights are available, mix the options up a bit for maximum flexibility. Key blanks are easily stored in transparent pull out drawers, because the units are compact its possible to pack a lot of units into a design. Lin bin style open storage units offer great capacity as a storage solution. Transparent drawers and Lin bin style provide the added benefit of being able to easily view stock onboard. As a result you can see stock easily meaning you don’t overbuy. Euro crates are excellent because they provide deep storage capacity and therefore suitable for larger items, definitely worth considering as a storage option.
Steel or plastic service cases are popular and available in different sizes with or without colour coded insert containers. Choose between fixed units or van shelving that slides out for service cases. Open shelving units with removable mats and dividers provide maximum flexibility.
Do you need a workbench and vice?
Workbenches often feature in a Locksmiths racking design because space is needed for machinery. Full length workbench with space to sit for intricate work can make life a lot easier. Vice on the bench is a favourite or a space saving slide out vice with rotating vice plate is worth considering. For heavier vice work it’s possible to have a platform drop down type with supporting leg.
Difficult to store items
For difficult to store items and extendible top tray is very useful or perhaps a long items holder for the end of a racking bay. Bulky equipment can be stored efficiently at floor level and secured with some straps.
Need some inspiration?
Visit our case studies page to view a variety of installations completed for Locksmiths in different manufacturers vans. View the racking product guide for more racking ideas for a locksmith. Benefit from our experienced design team who can offer suggestions and advice and normally solve most storage problems.
Racking layout
Now that you have planned what you need to carry on the van and have some ideas on how to best store it. Time to think about how you would like your van racking organised. Think about how you work with the van and what time can potentially be saved by having the most frequent used tools positioned close to a side door. Some locksmiths like the idea of side access drawers or even blocking the side access door completely with a racking unit accessible from outside of the van. There are all sorts of possibilities available which is why the planning stage is the key to a system that works well.
Do you need an Inverter or extra internal lighting?
Locksmiths often need power onboard via an inverter for the key cutting machine. Extra internal lighting overcomes the problem of not so great manufacturer supplied lighting. Our Auto Electrical Engineer has a wealth of experience in some pretty complex systems, therefore once we know what you need to power we will ensure the Electrical design is fit for purpose.
Don’t forget the accessories
Often and understandably overlooked but they really can compliment a racking design
Hand washing systems
Silicone and can holders
Van tidy unit for the front cab
Fire Extinguishers……..to name just a few
Ask us for a CAD Drawing
As the project starts to come together now is the time to ask Van Racking Solutions to produce a costed design. View what the racking will look like in the van and the associated costs. Based on feedback we can make design adjustments until it’s just how you want it to be. The service is completely free of charge and without obligation. We are always happy to provide a quote based on full installation or advise on the suitability of a DIY fit.