For plumbers, vans provide much more than transportation. As the majority of plumbing work is done on job sites, plumbing vehicles are also mobile offices, storage units, and workstations. That’s why it’s important to make sure you choose the van or truck that best fits the needs of your plumbing business.
The way you set up your plumbing van can mean the difference between a smoothly running, efficient operation and wasting time searching for the supplies and equipment you need. Read on to learn more about top plumbing vehicles and how to set yours up for success.
Best Vehicles for Plumbing Services
Upfitting Work Vans For Plumbing
Why Choose Merchants Commercial?
Best Vehicles for Plumbing Services
When it comes to choosing the right vehicle for your plumbing business, there’s a lot to keep in mind. Factors such as cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and features will all play a part in narrowing down your options.
For example, you’ll need to make sure the van or truck you choose has enough space to sufficiently store all the equipment you use on-the-job. The size of your service area will determine your potential vehicle’s ideal gas mileage. Additionally, depending on the particulars of your business (and personal preferences), you may need a vehicle that has different modes of access, seating arrangements, or other features.
To help refine your search, these are the types of vehicles that are most commonly chosen by plumbers:
Box Trucks
Box trucks are characterized by a cargo area that’s separated from the cab of the vehicle and rear doors that roll up. Most will provide more space than a cargo van and carry heavier loads, but are more difficult to maneuver and park in cities or urban environments.
Cargo Vans
At first glance, cargo vans resemble passenger vans — they have sliding side doors and cabs that connect to the cargo area. However, they are slightly larger than passenger vans, have double rear doors, and feature empty cargo space instead of multiple seating rows.
Compact Vans
These vans offer the same features as cargo vans, just on a smaller scale. This makes them the perfect option for smaller businesses that don’t have the same storage needs as larger operations.
High Roof Vans
This variety of cargo van comes with a taller roof height than standard models. While the exact measurements vary between vans, these vehicles typically have enough vertical space in the cargo hold to be considered walk-in-friendly.
Pickup Trucks
Featuring a cab that’s separated from an open bed, pickup trucks are designed to carry and tow heavy loads, making them a popular choice for plumbers who use trailers to store and transport their equipment.
Upfitting Work Vans For Plumbing
Opting to add upfits is a great way to get the most out of your plumbing van or truck. These optional customizations can increase your storage options, provide the kind of organization you need to ensure efficient work, and much more. For plumbers, we recommend the following additions:
- Anti-slip flooring makes your cargo areas safer to access
- Branding and decals are a great way to advertise your services
- Lock boxes ensure valuable parts, documents, and technology stay protected
- Long storage compartments secure piping and ladders while in transit
- Shelves, bins, and drawers provide extra storage and organization for smaller parts
- Tool boxes keep your essential equipment out of the way and organized
- Workbenches create a dedicated work space you can use to prepare materials while on job sites
5 Plumbing Van Setup Ideas
Some plumbing vehicles have more cargo space than others, and when you have limited room to work with, it’s important to maximize your truck or van’s storage capacity. The following five plumbing van setup tips can help you do just that:
1. Get a Roof Rack
If you’re looking to free up some cargo space in your plumbing van, the best way to increase the available storage capacity is to remove the items that are taking up the most real estate. These typically tend to be larger pieces of equipment, such as ladders or piping. Adding a roof rack to your vehicle creates a dedicated storage place for these items while opening up the space you need in the cargo hold.
2. Create a False Floor or Ceiling
If you prefer to keep piping and ladders stored inside your van instead, creating a false floor or ceiling in your van’s cargo area is a great alternative. Either option creates the perfect hiding place for these items, while delivering the security and protection (from both theft and the elements) you’re looking for.
3. Add as Many Drawers as Possible
When it comes to organizing your plumbing vehicle, you can never have too many drawers. Drawers present an opportunity to give certain types of items their own dedicated storage space, which means no more time wasted rummaging through unorganized piles to find the tools or parts you need.
4. Maximize Wall Space
To truly make the most of your van’s cargo area, it’s important to view every surface as a potential storage opportunity — and that includes the walls. Installing rack systems or peg boards is a great solution for storing your tools or other smaller equipment.
5. Add Interior Lighting
While this isn’t technically a space-saving suggestion, properly lighting the back of your van is just as important as maximizing its storage. That’s because all the hard work you put into making the space work for you will be for nothing if it’s too dark to see anything. WIth the right lighting system in place, you’ll be able to find what you need quickly — especially during evening and early morning jobs.
Why Choose Merchants Commercial?
There are several reasons to purchase your plumbing vehicle from Merchants Commercial. Thousands of customers choose us for our:
Largest Nationwide Selection
We’re proud to offer the largest nationwide selection of commercial vehicles, including pickup trucks, box trucks, cargo vans, and passenger vans. Our inventory is staged and ready to go — not just in New Hampshire, but in major metro areas like Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, and Southern California.
Best-In-Market Pricing
We don’t believe in surprises when it comes to price, which is why we’re up front about it. Our commercial vehicles are priced well below retail, and the price you see is the price you pay.
Nationwide Delivery
We may be located in New Hampshire, but we serve customers all across the country.
Upfitting Services
Are you looking to add a few additional enhancements to one vehicle? Or upfit an entire fleet? Either way, our team will help you figure out exactly what you need.
Money-Back Guarantee
Customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal, which is why Merchants Commercial allows you to exchange or return your commercial vehicle for a full refund within 7 days or 500 miles.
Looking for a reliable van or truck that can accommodate all your plumbing equipment? Contact Merchants Commercial today to see what we recommend.
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