When you’re working as a tradesperson, it’s likely you have lots of essential tools and equipment that you need to take with you everywhere. That’s why it’s so important to ensure your work van is set up correctly.
Having the proper apparatus for protecting, securing and organising your equipment can save you both time and money. Conversely, poor storage can lead to accidental damage, wasted time, and even injury – all of which can be avoided through careful planning.
Whether you’re looking into roof racks to carry your ladders, or van racking to create an organised system for your tools, it’s important you get the right items for the job and install them correctly to ensure everyone’s safety.
By improving your van’s organisation, you’ll be able to take better care of your tools, lay your hands on them easily and be sure they’re safe in transit. Below are some of the best van accessories for tradespeople
1. Van Roof Racks
Roof racks are an important addition to a van, especially when you need transport long items from point A to point B.
Whether you need to transport a long load or one that varies in size, roof racks are one of the safest ways to do it - providing your load is properly secured with thinks like ladder clamps (for ladders) or ratchet straps.
Van roof racks are an excellent option for freeing up room inside your van, whether or not it’s a long item you wish to transport. They can help you carry a bigger load and can add an extra measure of safety to your travel by spreading the load evenly across the van.
Rhino Commercial carry a variety of durable, aerodynamic roof rack designs, suitable for different van makes and models. Just check that the roof rack you’re interested in is suitable for your vehicle before you buy.
2. Pipe Carriers
If you need to transport copper pipe, plastic conduit or cable trunking, pipe carriers for vans are just what you need.
These add an extra layer of safety and security when driving around with any of the above. Pipe carriers, much like roof racks will help you better utilise the space inside your van, while allowing you to carry pipes etc. on top of your van. They’re made specifically for transporting pipes, making them nice and simple to use with your van.
A pipe carrier not only helps with transport, but it’s also an extra layer of security when you leave your van unattended. It’s unpleasant to think about, but thefts do happen, and if you’ve visibly got copper pipe attached to your van, someone with bad intentions might take it off your hands when you’re not looking.
Using a pipe carrier will conceal what it is you’re transporting, meaning any opportunistic thieves won’t have their attention piqued, but it’s also a physical barrier that needs to be bypassed before anyone can get to the pipes.
Some pipe carriers also have lockable features available, meaning if they’re secured to the roof rack, and they’re locked, no one but you has a hope of getting in. This bit of kit is perfect for plumbers, electricians, gas engineers and anyone else who regularly transports pipes.
3. Rear Door Ladders
If you’re often carrying loads on your van’s roof, it makes sense to install some rear door ladders. These make for much safer and convenient access to roof-mounted loads.
Because rear door ladders are made specifically to fit on vans and enable tradespeople to reach roof loads better, they’ve been made with safety in mind. They are designed to be non-slip, meaning you can relax in the knowledge they’ll be safe to use in all weather conditions. They’re also designed to be corrosion-resistant too, so if you have a wet winter, you don’t need to worry about the ladders deteriorating in the rain.
The non-slip feature is also good for providing reassurance when lifting large or heavy loads on and off you van roof. If you can’t see your footing, it’s essential there’s no risk of slipping when you’re finding it with your feet.
Most rear door ladders have very straightforward installation. Some models don’t even require any drilling, making this essential addition nice and easy to set up.
4. Van Roof Bars
Van roof bars, much like van roof racks allow you to securely carry loads on the top of your van and free up space inside it.
Roof bars are a little different to roof racks and generally tend to be much more streamlined that racks. They are two bars that securely sit horizontally and parallel on top of your van, making them lightweight and aerodynamic.
They’re a versatile option that works well for smaller vans and occasional loads. They’re also cost effective, usually costing less than van roof racks. You can still transport things like ladders and other long loads on them, making them suitable for tradespeople on a tighter budget.
Roof bars are also quick and easy to install. In fact, lots of vans come with pre-fitted mount points they can easily be attached to. This makes them a great option if you need a quick solution for carrying a load on your van.
5. Van Racking Systems
Van racking allows you to keep your tools and equipment organized by setting up shelves and storage systems in the inside of your van. This can sometimes get confused with van ply lining, which is similar, but not the same. Van ply lining involves lining the inside of your van with plywood to protect it. Tradespeople often use van racking and ply lining together for optimum protection and organisation.
Van racking is essential for keeping your tools and materials stored in safe, easy-to-find sections of your van. Not only does it protect these items from knocking against each other and getting damaged in transit, it also make it easier to lay your hands on what you need if you have a dedicated place to store it.
When your equipment it tidy and protected, it gives off a very professional image to clients and employers, as well as improving efficiency in your work.
The great thing about van racking is that anyone can get it fitted in their van. It’s available in modular or custom-fit systems, so you could have something fitted that is bespoke for your trade needs. If this sounds like something you could benefit from, you should explore modular van racking systems at Rhino Commercial, where you can find some of the best trade van accessories UK.
In Conclusion
Working in a trade that requires a lot of tools and equipment means transporting more than just yourself in your van. With the right van accessories and organisational apparatus, you can protect and organise your equipment with ease.
Organising your van doesn’t just make it easier to find what you need when you need it, it can help protect your tools and make them last longer. Not only that, but an organised van will also add to the appearance of professionalism to anyone who gets a glimpse inside.
Explore our full range of trade van accessories today to help you kit out your van with everything you need to keep your cargo safe, organised and in reach for when you need it.
