It can be done in a couple of days. I recommend just taking a week of after getting your new van (if you can afford to do so, of course). In this week, draw the plans and rack it out. This week is time well spent, since you’ll win a bit of time with every job you do.
1. Create a false floor with access at the rear and side doors
If your van is high enough, consider putting in a false floor. It’s the perfect out-of-sight storage place for long materials such as pipes. And there are endless possibilities to arrange this space. You can for example store your fragile or long tools in here, such as your levels. I suggest placing a ladder rack for the van under the flooring so that it can provide you easily accessible storage for your ladder.
2. Use wide pipes to divide up the under-floor storage
There’s a very easy way to divide up the false floor compartment. Use full-length PVC pipes with a wide diameter(I suggest at least 100-150mm) to compartmentalize the under-floor storage. Use simple pipe brackets to keep them in place. Or you can also fix them by simply stacking them in two levels, holding each other into place.
3. Create long drawers at the rear end
Place a couple of long drawers at the rear end for storing long tools, such as levels, straight edges, etc.
Other racking ideas for plumbers
- Hang your pipe bender, saw, pump, set of steps, lights, and safety equipment from the side of your cabinet, facing the rear doors for easy access.
- Use the bulkhead space for tubes: it offers plenty of storage for items you won’t need as often.
- Hang some wipes, your hacksaw, and fire extinguisher at the back of the van for easy access.
- Keep your hoovers and water suction cleaner near the side door. Even better: build a rack for them.
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