Advice and useful tips on helping you achieve the perfect racking system for a mechanics van
What do you carry in your van?
A great starting point is to think about what you carry onboard and needs including in a racking design. Mobile mechanics often have a Snap-On tool chest or similar to be stored in the van. Do you carry oil drums or Ad Blue containers in 20 or 25 ltr drums? Mobile mechanics tend to carry a lot in their vehicles so making a list is perhaps a good way to start. Don’t forget to allow space for a Compressor and Generator if these feature in your must have list.
What sort of racking and storage works for you?
Now you have an idea of what needs to be accommodated think about how you want to store it. Tools can be stored in either a tool chest or in Steel drawers in a racking system. If using a tool chest, maybe you prefer to have this at the bulkhead end because it provides easy access from the side door. There is a wide variety of storage options for parts and consumables in either open or closed storage units.
Steel service cases are popular, available in different sizes with or without colour coded insert containers. There is also a range of plastic and stackable parts cases with transparent lids. Choose between fixed units or van shelving that slides out for service cases. Open shelving units are also highly popular products in a van racking system. Supplied with removable mats and dividers as standard, open shelving is highly flexible and adaptable storage system.
Do you need to save space & weight?
Do you carry a separate Compressor and Generator on board? if so then take a look at our Migi range – a combined Compressor and Generator in a single machine ticks lots of boxes. Migi is fast becoming the solution for roadside recovery and mobile mechanics nationwide. Take a quick look at a Migi installed in a van in this case study installation for RS Recovery
Difficult to store items
For difficult to store items and extendible top tray can be very useful or perhaps a long items holder for the end of a racking bay. Other bulky equipment can often be housed at floor level and kept in place with some straps.
Need some inspiration?
Head to our case studies page to view a variety of installations we have completed for mechanics in different manufacturers vans. We have a very experienced design team who can offer suggestions and advice and normally solve most storage problems. Great selection of van racking ideas for mechanics.
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, it’s time to have a think about how you would like your van racking laid out in the van. 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 mechanics 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 for you.
Do you need an Inverter or lights and beacons?
Mechanics often need power onboard and because we have expertise with complex power systems you might find it useful to have a chat with our Auto Electrical Engineer once we know what you need to power we can ensure the Electrical design and quote is suitable for your needs.
Don’t forget the accessories
Often and understandably overlooked but they really can compliment a racking design
Hand washing systems
Can holders
Long items holder
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. You can see what the racking would look like in the van and the associated costs. Based on your feedback we can make any 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.