For a professional tradesperson, your van is an office on wheels. From tools to parts to equipment, it houses everything you need to do your job and move on to the next project.
Developing an efficient mobile storage system saves time at the work site, making it easy for you and your crew to quickly find the gear you need. Staying organized also facilitates the restocking of vital components so you’re never without a part required to finish a project.
Go vertical
Take advantage of every open wall in your van. In places where there isn’t enough room to install shelving, attach a peg board for easy access to your most frequently used tools. Hooks and poles attached to the ceiling are a great way to hang lightweight items such as extension cords.
Magnetized stripping is also effective at displaying small hand tools like pliers and screwdrivers on a vertical space.
For shelving and tool cabinets, always start by storing larger, heavier objects at the bottom and then work your way up with smaller items. This simple system helps prevent gear from shifting or falling on the road while making it easier to locate items quickly.
Keep small parts in stackable bins
Rummaging through a large tool box in search of a small part wastes time. Divide your hard-to-find bits into a series of stackable bins and label each box clearly.
It could be worth your while to invest in a SKU inventory management system for easy ordering, particularly if your company owns a fleet of vehicles. Crew can simply scan barcodes attached to each bin when supplies start to run low, ensuring you never run short of important parts.
Prepare for a quick grab
Make a list of the things you use every single day. Make sure these items are within arm’s reach of the door. You shouldn’t have to hop all the way up into the vehicle to grab your tool belt or hard hat.
Don’t forget about the door
Failing to install storage on the back of the door is wasting valuable space. Cargo straps and hanging closet organizers are both effective strategies for optimizing door storage.
Ergonomics matter
- Lay a thick padding on the floor so that you don’t hurt your knees when accessing lower drawers or shelves.
- Install sufficient lighting to illuminate every corner in the back of the van. At a bare minimum, hang a battery powered headlamp near the door.
- Eliminating clutter will help you stay organized. Be sure to include a small cleanup station, including trash can & extra bags, hand sanitizer, duster and broom.
- Always keep heavy machinery on the floor to avoid injury to your back. Remember that the confined cargo space doesn’t allow for safe lifting techniques. Generators, pressure washers and similar equipment should never be kept on a shelf.
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