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Find the Right Van Accessories for Your Work Van

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

Find your Work Van with the Most Useful Van Accessories

Getting the most from your sprinter work van is easy when you choose the right van accessories to help you become more organized and efficient. Good truck and van accessories will always pay for themselves by allowing you to maximize your cargo space and productivity, while also keeping your most expensive equipment protected.

With so many van accessories to choose from, the best way to find which ones work for you is to take some time to consider your needs. All tradesmen work differently, and every trade has their own basic tools. Make a list of all the equipment that you use daily. Consider ladders, large and small parts, and inventory. With a list in hand, you’ll be able to visualize your needs and determine which of the van accessories below will be the most beneficial.

Van Accessories for Organization:

Paper holders, bottle holders and reel holders are designed to increase organization by giving you a specific spot to store your equipment. Instead of rolling loose on the floor, your bottles and reels can be fastened down and within easy reach from the door. As for your paperwork and files, keep them all together in a paper holder where they won’t get ripped or crumpled.

Partskeepers are a great way to keep your smallest parts together and secured. With small, dividable bins, they offer a great storage system to take with you onto the job site. Sturdy yet lightweight, you can never have too many Partskeepers for your tools.

Storage bins are available in several sizes, and can be accessorized with bin dividers. These are ideal for holding items and inventory so you can find what you need quickly and easily. Like the Partskeepers, if you have many items to carry with you on the job, then these bins are the ideal solution.

Hooks come in several different styles and can be used to organize tools and equipment near the van doors to be most effective. Hard hat holders can keep frequently used hats within easy reach and safely stowed while on the road.

Van Accessories for Driver Comfort & Safety:

Lighting keeps the cargo space bright, making it easy to find your tools, no matter what time of day or night. It also eliminates any chance of receiving cuts and bruises when searching through your tools in the dark.

Rear Steps are extremely beneficial for tradesmen with high roof vans. Climbing in and out several times a day can put quite a strain on your legs and back, especially when carrying heavy items at the same time. The steps also provide a rugged grip in the winter, so there is no fear of slipping when getting in or out.

Grab Handles, like the rear steps, are designed to provide you with easier access into your van. Whether installed in a high roof of low roof work van, it is always useful to have something to hold onto. It can also be used to tie down additional cargo for safe transportation.

Flettner vents help protect you from any gasses/vapors or smells that may build up in the cargo area of your vehicle. It helps reduce heat build-up and allows moisture to escape should any materials or tools be stored while they are still wet. It is a simple way to stay healthy while working.

Van Accessories for Vehicle Security:

Lockable Doors and Drawers provide two advantages. They can better protect your inventory and tools by keeping them in one place on the rougher roads. Also, they can deter thieves and protect valuable tools while you’re on the job and your work van is left unattended.

Wire grills for your windows can also protect you against theft as well as prevent damage to the van during loading or unloading. They are an easy install and such a simple product that just might help save you a lot of money in the future.

Seat Covers help keep your work van seats clean and in good condition. Instead of getting dirt and grease on your seats and staining them permanently, use custom-fit covers that can be easily removed and washed. Come time to sell your vehicle, you will be grateful you kept them in such good condition.
Learn other simple tricks to help Safeguard Your Work Van Against Tool Theft.

Consider the demands of your trade and your needs, and invest in the van accessories that will pay for themselves with the time and money they save.

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How to Drive Safely Around Trucks

Posted on July 23, 2020July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

Large trucks and commercial vans operate a bit differently than any other small vehicle like the car. The trucks have large blind spots compared to any other small vehicle, longer stopping distances, and many more. So, this means that other vehicles have to take extra precautions while driving around such commercial trucks.

Fortunately, if one knows how these vehicles are different concerning other cars, then it may help them to have an extra edge while driving. Some of them are as follows:

1. Trucks have more significant blind spots:

Be very careful around the front, back, and side of the vehicles as those are the blind spots of the trucks, also known as the “No Zones.” If someone can’t see the truck driver in his side mirror, then he, while driving past the truck, then he can assume the vehicle is in the blind spot of the truck. So, be very particular when driving around the blind spot, either slow down or move ahead to avoid any mishappening.

2. Don’t drive too close:

It is really dangerous to cut too close in front of another vehicle, and especially in front of trucks, it is more dangerous. The chances are that your vehicle will be in great danger as it can fall under the blind zone of the truck even if you are visible to the truck driver the truck may not be able to slow down quickly enough to avoid the crash because of the amount of time it takes to stop the truck.

3. Trucks need more room to take turns:

Never try to squeeze in your vehicle while a truck or commercial truck is taking turns because they need more space to take turns so that they may initiate the turn from the middle of the lane or from far-right. Whenever at an intersection, keep sufficient space for the larger vehicles to take smooth turns.

4.Buckle up:

Always wear your seatbelt; it is one of the most important things that the driver and passengers can do in order to save their lives. A seatbelt not only helps you to keep you in place while driving but also maintain control over the vehicle. The safest place for the kids is in the back with seat-belt buckled up.

5. Larger stopping distance for the trucks:

If one expects a truck to stop as soon as the driver applies brakes, then it is wrong as the truck work on different mechanics. The trucks are much heavier than the conventional vehicles on the road like cars, so whenever they apply the brakes, they need more space to get to rest in accordance with the laws of physics. This is because of larger the weight, the more space and time it needs to stop. So, always try to keep a safe distance when a truck follows behind since a sudden brake can result in fatigue.

6. Be patient while encountering a truck:

Commercial trucks and buses have some operating restrictions, and sometimes the controlling authority uses speed limiters. Honking, driving aggressively, or cutting through the traffic won’t make the trip faster, especially whenever a truck is near as it can cause dangerous distractions and crashes.

It is unfortunate to be hit by a commercial truck or any large vehicle like the buses, but you can avoid such situations most of the time if you keep the following points in mind while you drive near a truck. But sometimes such situations are hard to dodge. So you should know your rights as a victim of such accidents. If in the future, you get into such a troublesome situation, be sure to contact a specialized truck accident lawyer who can help with all the formalities.

A truck wreck lawyer can help you get the compensation from the concerned authorities. Like whenever you are going to deal with an accident in which a commercial truck is involved, then laws are a bit different than the standard road accident cases. So, in such situations, truck accident law firms can help you get fair compensation from the companies. It’s always recommended getting help from trusted truck accident law firms.

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How Cargo Partitions in Vans Increase the Safety?

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

As competition in the automobile industry grows, almost every big company has a van on the road. From Mercedes Sprinter and Metis, Ford E-Series, Dodge RAM, Nissan NV to the Chevy City Express, there is a van for every type of business. However, safety is a major concern if you own a work van. Most contractors and business owners in other trades prefer vans because of the spacious cargo space available.

The large cargo space can nevertheless turn into a problem if you don’t invest in custom van partitions. Many business owners want to leverage the large cargo space and forget about safety only to regret later when accidents happen. By installing proper cargo partition, you will boost safety standards inside the van and avoid costly personal injury lawsuits from your workers.

In this article, you will learn more about the importance of partitioning your cargo van as a safety precaution. Read on to learn about van bulkheads/partitions if you are after a van outfitting idea that will help your business.

Van Partitioning and Safety

As business owners look for extra space to hold their cargo in transit, automobile industries have come up with roomier vans. The Mercedes Sprinter van, for instance, has 319.1 cubic ft of space which is more than enough for an ordinary contractor business. Such increased cargo volumes have seen the adoption of these vans for almost every business as they allow transportation of bulky tools and equipment. Most vans can carry around 1,500 and 3,000 pounds, and all this load sits behind the driver and passenger.

When using a factory manufactured van, the roomy cargo space becomes a challenge. You have a combination of large and small tools to transport and other equipment. In the end, most people use truck tool boxes and other storage systems to try and maximize available space. This exposes the driver and passenger in the cabin to injuries in case of a collision.

Why Van Cargo Partitioning Matters

Despite the important role it plays, a van partition between the cargo area and the driver’s cabin misses in most work vans. It is a major safety concern when the vehicle is in motion and has caused many injuries and fatalities on American roads.

If your van cargo has bulky tools, for instance, the driver and passenger can suffer serious injuries or even death in case of a collision.

The Worrying Accident Statistics

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) says there are close to half a million van and truck crashes. Cargo companies such as UPS, FedEx, DHL, U.S. Postal Service record high accident rates on the roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has raised concerns over the overlooked danger of unrestrained cargo.

According to statistics from NHTSA, there are over 250 cargo-related injuries and fatalities. When a collision occurs, even the smaller tools in the cargo become dangerous missiles moving at very high speeds. A 30mph crash, for instance, has almost 20 G’s and a 50-pound tool transforms into a 1,000-pound missile flying inside the van during the crash. Inevitably, this leads to injuries or even fatalities which you can avoid by installing custom cargo partition in your new work van.

Now that most van manufacturers are yet to install partition systems in their vans, it is important to invest in a custom van partition as a way of protecting your business. Here is how cargo partitioning will help:

Prevent Personal Injuries

Workplace injuries rate among the biggest problems facing businesses today. They can devastate your business financially and you need to implement the best safety precautions. In your van, one of the best ways to avoid injuries is by installing a durable cargo partition system that will restrain cargo during crashes. If you have dangerous tools or any other items in your van, this is the best way to keep both the driver and passenger safe whenever they are on the road.

Reducing Impact of Damage in a Collision

In case of a crash, any loose lying items will fly fast forward thus causing damage to the windscreen. It will cost you a lot of money to replace that windscreen and to avert such costs; you should invest in high-quality van bulkheads. A sturdy bulkhead restrains cargo inside the van irrespective of the magnitude of a crash. There is minimal damage to your vehicle, and it is thus easier to get the van back on the road.

Averting Property Damage and 3rd Party Injuries

In some situations, cargo flying from your van can cause serious injuries to people outside the van or property damage. A simple accident can mutate into a big lawsuit which can bring your business to its knees. To avoid hefty fines and compensation, you should install custom cargo partitioning early enough. It is the only way to avoid causing damage outside the van in case of an accident.

When researching the best van partition, look for versatile, durable and easy to use systems. A good van partition should allow monitoring of the van area from the driver’s cabin. The partition should also open and close easily preferably using an automatic lock system. Look for a versatile partition system which can also allow storage of safety equipment, tank holders, bin systems, and installation of hook bars.

If you are after a van outfitting idea that will optimize the performance of your van, think about cargo partition. It enhances safety standards inside your van and protects your crew, helps in the organization of the cargo area and improves your company’s professional image. Your van’s driver will enjoy peace of mind knowing everything at the back is well organized and there are precautions for any safety risks.

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Choosing A Van Ladder Rack for Your High Roof Cargo Van

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

The Safest Ladder Rack for the Job

Two important business investments that most tradesman make is their vehicle and a van ladder racks to go with it. They need to ensure their choice of equipment performs well, is durable and will save them both time and money.

Today more tradesmen are turning to high roof cargo vans as the smart choice for their business. With increased standing headroom and more cargo space, a high roof makes sense. The challenge then becomes how to load a ladder onto the roof without damaging the ladder, the van or getting injured in the process.

With this in mind, here are some reasons tradesmen consider drop-down racks for their high roof vans:

Reduced Risk of Injury: By lowering to a level that is easy to load and secure a ladder, the risk of injury to the back, shoulders or neck of the operator is greatly reduced.

Reduced Damage: Ladders are expensive. However this style of ladder rack protects your investment by ensuring the ladders are loaded and unloaded without damage.

Increased Cargo Capacity: Stowing the ladder on top of the van frees up valuable interior space. More room is gained for cargo and equipment.

Greater Productivity: Loading and unloading a drop-down ladder rack is a fast process. Tradesmen do not have to fumble around to get the ladder on and off their van numerous times a day. Instead, they spend more time on the job, increasing billable hours.

Introducing the Ranger Design Max Rack

At Ranger Design we listened to tradesmen with high roof vans and we learned their ladder rack needs. With this information, we were able to develop the industry leading Max Rack drop-down ladder rack. It offers all of the benefits that are highlighted above, while leading the competition with these advanced features:

Faster: The Max Rack lowers the ladder down from the top of the vehicle in one simple motion. It drops down exceptionally low, eliminating the need to reach above head level for the ladder.

Safer: It is not necessary to stand below the Max Rack as it lowers making it a safe option. The drop-down feature also eliminates risk of back or neck strain and muscle injury. For extra safety against theft, the ladder can be padlocked to the rack at the end of the day.

Tougher: All Ranger Design products are proven to be tough and our Max Rack is no exception. Made of rust-proof aluminum with a durable powder coated finish, the Max Rack is put through a series of rigorous cycle tests to ensure its durability in the real world.

Quieter: The aerodynamic build of the Max Rack also ensures there is minimal wind noise and drag from the ladder rack when driving.

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Suggestions for Truck Drivers to Obey in Winter

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

Accidents that happened over the years linking commercial vans bestow you a different set of issues than normal automobile accidents. Specialized truck accident lawyers handle these types of cases.

In this article, we have accumulated some expert advice for the drivers, especially semi-truck drivers, on how to handle during snowfall and prevent a fatality.

In a harsh stormy winter, using your intelligence is the best tool. If you go out, make sure to carry an emergency kit, some warm blankets, and rations in the truck.

1. Breath slowly and stay calm:

When you are driving, don’t panic during an emergency. People tend to overreact, which is wrong. Breathe slowly, remain calm, and maintain your focus.

2. Take actions smoothly:

It will help if you control your actions. Sudden braking, hard acceleration, and sharp curves decrease traction. To maintain a constant speed, be gentle with steering, go easy on brakes, and keep a safe distance between the truck and other vehicles on the same road.

3. Use Signals:

For changing lanes, here’s a trucker’s rule of thumb:

For dry or rainy weather: 3 (three) blinks
For winter weather 4 (four) or (5) five blinks

After giving signals, move at a slow speed.

If you are driving your truck slower than the traffic around you, then turn on your four-way hazards. It will let other drivers know that your vehicle is going slower than theirs and help prevent any kind of pileup.

Also, drive fast as per your capacity, and if you are out of practice on snow and ice-laden road, slow down your truck.

4. Cold weather driving risk:

On the snowy, wet roads, when the temperatures are between 22 and 35 degrees, you will be facing the highest risk of losing traction, rather than a colder temperature like 10 to 20 degrees or less. For example, let’s take two ice cubes, then place one in a glass of water, and the other one into the deep freezer for 30 mins. After that, try picking the cube that was in the glass of water. You will notice that it to be slippery. Now, bring the other ice cube from the freezer. You will see that the cube is sticking to your fingers a bit.

The same thing applies here. The ice is almost sticky in the extreme cold. However, as slower and heavier traffic generates more heat, the surface ice gets melted and becomes slippery, decreasing the traction.

Appoint a lawyer:

If a truck wreck has injured anyone from your family or someone you know, you must approach a local truck accident lawyer who specializes in dealing with such cases. You have legal rights to get compensated for your injuries and loss. But, unfortunately, truck companies and their owners are super rich, and they will try every possible and in some cases, illegal ways to stop you from filing a case against them. They will try not to pay you a large amount of money that you deserve.

Again, the truck accident, in most cases, involves more than one party to be blamed. It can make an ordinary citizen get confused about whom to protest against. As the victim is already going through a lot of traumas due to the catastrophe, it may not be possible for the individual to fight against the big troop of guilt party. Hence, it is crucial to get a truck wreck attorney as soon as possible.

Many law firms are eager to help clients without any fee as they believe that without winning the lawsuit, there is no point in taking money from a person who has already suffered a lot. Besides, the lawyers are acquainted with all the related aspects that are required to win a case.

If you are still in doubt, do a little research online. You will get several law firms’ websites. Study them. Get their contact details. Call them. Have an initial discussion. Tell your problems. If you are admitted to a hospital, let your relatives or friends do the needful. It would be best if you did not tolerate any nonsense that has happened to you due to a negligent truck driver. Also, truck drivers have their own set of laws.

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How to Transform Your Cargo Van into Mobile Office?

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

Modern technology has revolutionized many aspects of life. One of the most significant changes that technology has brought about is in the way people work. Gone are the days when all employees had to commute to a single office in town to get some work done. Today, working remotely is the in-thing and this is not only for the office-working people. Business entrepreneurs are also moving their services from a central location using highly specialized vans.

In this article, you will learn how you can transform your cargo van into a mobile office or a trendy mobile business.

Why is the Idea of Working Remotely Popular?

You have most likely seen an increase of pop-up restaurants in your neighborhood or such other mobile businesses operating from vans. Business owners love the idea of taking their services closer to the people to increase their brand’s visibility and increase conversion.

As a contractor, working from a van is a great idea to save money on overheads while also bringing your services closer to the clients. A mobile van is a flexible working solution because you can pick an ideal location to work from any time. Love the breeze in the park? You can set up your van as long as the law allows it. These converted vans have all the perks you would find in an upmarket office and with some creativity and ingenuity, you can create the dream working space.

Tips to Create the Perfect Mobile Working Space in Your Van

Cargo vans are popular with service providers because they offer a lot of room and if you are thinking of creating a mobile working space, your van offers the perfect solution. Whether you own a Chevy Express, Nissan NV, RAM Promaster City, Mercedes Sprinter/ Metris or such other modern cargo van, there are some basic ideas to consider to transform the vehicle into a mobile working space. Below are some of these considerations:

Evaluate Your Office Space Needs

Every business has unique needs and when converting your cargo van into your working office, you need to evaluate such needs and set a plan on how to achieve them. Create a list of all the features you need including power, furniture, technology, storage, space needs, and office layout, business licenses, safety regulations among other factors. For instance, a plumbing contractor, a mobile pub owner, and an architect will have unique space needs and their transformation of the same cargo van will differ significantly.

Think of Licenses and Regulations

Every state has unique laws on van use and it is important to do some research to find out what you need. If you intend to serve clients from your van, make sure you have the business licenses required. The best way to find out about any licensing required is by talking to other van users.

If you have seen anyone working from their van, approach them and inquire about any laws guiding mobile offices. More importantly, you have to consider traffic rules if you are to add fittings to your vehicle to guarantee it is roadworthy and doesn’t pose any dangers to other road users.

Work on the Van Floor

One of the most important things you have to consider when transforming a cargo van into a work office is the floor. Most vans come with bare factory floors, and it is hard to start organizing your workspace on these. You should invest in high-quality van floor mats for your new office. This is a major step towards maximizing available space.

Organize your Van’s Space

Most of the newer vans on the roads come with more room for cargo and this is a good thing for service providers. If you want to set up a Mobile Office equipment, you need to organize available space using organizers and partitioning. While most cargo vans have a lot of space, you can only utilize this by organizing available room creatively Partitioning accessories give you more flexibility when setting up your work area. You can divide the cargo area into a working area, tool storage, and a visitor’s seating. There’s a lot of room to use and you only have to get creative to work comfortably.

Set Up Efficient Power Supply

If you want to work from your Nissan NV van, you must have a suitable power source. Your van already has a battery for essential functions but this is not enough for all the equipment you need in an office. You need extra power supply and accessories such as power inverters to keep things running. A solar panel is a good idea for your office on wheels as it is sustainable.

Solar energy is clean and affordable and once you set up the panels and the rest of the equipment, you don’t have to worry about power problems. It is advisable to hire a certified electrician to set up the wiring in your van to avoid accidents in the future. When thinking of the ideal power supply, assess your power requirements and identify a source that guarantees constant supply without outages.

Install Proper Storage

To get the most out of your cargo van when transforming it into an office, you should invest in the best storage system. In your office, you will have lots of documents, tools, and other items taking up your space. For high productivity, you should invest in proper storage that allows you to stay organized. Think of drawers, cabinets, floor drawers, floor saver shelving, items holders, and bin storage among other storage systems available on the market.

Light Up Your Work Area

You should invest in high-quality lighting for your office to boost productivity. With proper interior lighting, you can work even in extreme weather or at night. Goo lighting also lights up the mood in your office and motivates you to keep going.

Other things to consider when setting up a mobile office from your cargo van include comfort, customization of space to suit your needs, power self-sufficiency, entertainment, communication technology and safety on the road. With these tips, you can now transform any cargo van into a comfortable office. To make things easier, talk to the best suppliers of van accessories to identify what you need to make your office on wheels a reality.

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Know the different types of forklift trucks and choose the right one for your operation

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

Forklift trucks have been here for a little under a century and today, it finds usage in every warehouse operation in different corners of the world. The first forklifts were developed owing to manpower shortage caused by the First World War.

In the early 1920s, the design of forklift evolved from a tractor to a machine that boasts vertical lifting mast. Development of forklift advanced with the advent of the Second World War. It played a significant role in armies throughout the world during the Second World War.

After the Second World War, the development of forklift gained momentum. The battery-driven forklifts made its appearance in the 1950s. The specialized forklifts like Narrow Aisle Reach truck also came into being during this time. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements in electronic control were undertaken. This helped forklifts to acquire more versatility. The companies also started considering warehouse efficiency.

Today, we can power forklift using a number of options like diesel, gasoline, compressed natural gas, and liquid propane gas.

Classifications of Forklift

There are different types of forklift trucks. Let’s check out on them

Counterbalance Forklift Trucks

This is one of the most common types of forklift trucks and most people think of it as soon as forklift trucks are mentioned. The forks protrude from the machine’s front. The truck is possible to be driven to the exact location of the load. No reach facility is thus necessary here. These are diesel, gas, or electric powered.

3 Wheel Counterbalance Forklift Trucks

This is similar to the counterbalance forklifts. It just includes a single drive wheel. These are perfect to use in applications where space is limited. This truck ensures maximum productivity.

Reach Trucks

These trucks are designed chiefly for warehouse operation.

They are perfect to operate in the narrow aisle warehousing spaces. They come with 2 outer legs that help in distributing the load of the weight. The drive wheel is located under the seat of the operator. The driver sits sideways while operating the machine.

Some manufacturers design these trucks with a tilting cab mechanism. This ensures a more comfortable viewing position for the operator.

Hand Pallet Trucks

These trucks are designed to move palletized loads; they are simple to operate.

A huge variety of hand pallet trucks is available.

Euro pallet compliant
Standard pallet compliant
Foldable
Low profile
Wide fork spread
All-terrain
Stainless steel construct
Narrow fork spread
Short forked
Long forked
Powered Pallet Trucks

These trucks operate in a way similar to the hand pallet trucks. Here the lifting of the load, as well as truck movement, is powered by an electric motor within the machine. It comes with a ‘paddle’ control that selects the forward and the reverse direction. It also boasts a button control to lower or raise the forks. As with all electric-powered trucks, the batteries need to be charged.

These trucks operate best on smooth and flat surfaces.

Teletrucks

These are specialist machines. They come with an extending mast rather than a standard straight mast found on the reach or the counterbalance trucks. The chief benefit on offer is excellent access. Cost is its drawback. There are also a few reliability issues owing to complexity in the structure and the design.

Which Forklift Truck Should you Opt For?

Most people make the mistake of thinking that just any forklift truck can do the job. These commercial vans are a customized piece of equipment built specifically for end-users based on need. The following points will help you choose the right forklift truck.

Match Specifications to Facility

The specification of a given forklift truck must match with the need of a facility. This is especially significant for big businesses that require a large number of forklifts.

Know the Needs

A good dealer will spend time finding out your needs and pinpoint a machine that can cater to all these needs. The key points covered here include

Weight
Dimension
Forklift class
Packaging of the material to be lifted
Know the Local Laws

Remember the local laws and government policies. It may dictate a few specifications that the forklift needs to possess.

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3 Key Steps to Setting up a Small Fleet

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

1. Preparation and Planning for your Small Fleet

The first step is most crucial to the success of your up and coming small fleet. You need to consider the impact of running your own company and how you will best manage it. Below are some tips to bear in mind when starting up:

The Market. Be sure to spend time carefully researching the market niche for your small fleet. Learn your customer base and size up your soon-to-be competitors. It is important that you know what you are up against and that you have a strategy to build your own loyal customer base. Decide how you are going to get your name out there. If possible, use your vehicles like moving billboards. Plan to have your fleet vans wrapped and get your company name and logo out there on the streets. Projecting a good image to potential customers is extremely important.
Expenses. Make a detailed plan of your expenses and your projected profits. Some expenses may include the purchase of a new vehicle or business location. There will also be payroll taxes, worker’s compensation and insurance, and of course your employee’s wages and benefit costs. How much you are able to spend on start-up costs will determine the size of your fleet but don’t make the mistake of multiplying your profits by the number of vehicles. Expenses may outweigh the profits in the beginning however that should change as you break further into the market.
Management. Plan how you will manage your small fleet in the most efficient way possible. Think about your invoicing and filing systems. How will they be best managed so it is an easy process for you and your customers? Scheduling is also important. GPS tracking devices can be extremely useful for this. By knowing exactly where your drivers are at all times, this will allow you to schedule their next appointments and give your customers an estimated arrival time.

There is a lot of planning needed when starting up a small fleet of your own and it is a good idea to get a second opinion. Speak to a consultant or a friend who may have gone through the same thing. They will make sure nothing is overlooked and will have helpful tips to get you started.

2. Choosing the Right Vehicle for your Small Fleet

The next step is to choose the right cargo van to best maximize your potential. Take a look at the characteristics you’ll need the most in your fleet. Some factors include:

Price. Decide what are you willing to spend on your van. Do you want to buy it for the least amount possible in the beginning, and maybe upgrade once you are making a steady profit? Or do you want to bite the bullet and get a more expensive van that will last you for many years?
Fuel savings. Are you concerned with getting the best mileage possible? If you foresee your vehicles traveling over large distances daily, then a van with high fuel savings probably makes the most sense. Not only will you be saving money but you will also be making less of an impact on the environment.
Size. The size of your vehicle depends on your job. For fleets in a busy city, a smaller van makes more sense as it can fit into tight spaces and underground parking lots. However, it depends on what you will be using your vehicle for. If you plan to create a work station in the back of vehicle, then a high roof van is a much better option. Your employees will have the space to stand up without bending. The van size also depends on what you plan to carry. If you will be hauling skids, you need to make sure they will fit in your van and that they will not be heavier than the vehicle’s load capacity allows.

These are just a few suggestions to look into when choosing your fleet vans. Do some research on the cargo vehicles available and narrow them down to the one you think will meet your small fleet needs.

3. Van Equipment for Your Small Fleet Van

Lastly, choose an upfit for your small fleet vans. Having the right van equipment for your work is an important factor in keeping the tools in your vehicles organized and in keeping your employees safe. Here are some products that you might consider putting in your vehicle for a better work experience:

Shelving. Outfitting your vehicle with shelving is a smart choice. Instead of having all your tools rolling free in the back of the van, they can be placed neatly on the shelves. This will help keep everything tidy and decrease the amount of time your employees spend searching for their parts and equipment. Bins and dividers can also be purchased with the shelves to offer an individual spot for the smaller tools.
Partitions. If you plan to put tools and equipment in the back of your vehicle, then a partition is mandatory. Although most cargo vans are sold with an OEM version, you may want to upgrade to one that will better suit your needs. For example, if your employees will constantly be entering the back of the van, you will want a partition with a door. Partitions are there to keep your driver’s safe, so why not get the most use out of them as possible?
Ladder Racks. If carrying any sort of ladder in your fleet van, a roof rack is absolutely necessary. There are many different types available out there to suit your needs. First, decide which type of ladders and how many each vehicle will need to carry. Then research the rack that will be the most beneficial. If your employees will be accessing their ladders many times during a day, maybe a drop-down rack is the best option to reduce strain. If you are transporting both ladders and additional materials, then a cargo rack would be ideal.

These three items are just scratching the surface when it comes to van equipment. There are many other options to choose from for your small fleet vans, including floors and an endless variety of accessories.

Overall, there are great profits that can come out of owning a small fleet. As your small fleet becomes increasingly well known and you are able to break into the market, monetary benefits will follow. Yet maybe more than that, is a sense of satisfaction that comes with running your own company. You are your own boss with the ability to build your small fleet around the corporate values you believe in.

To get a consultation about the right package for your fleet, contact one of our fleet specialists.

cargo van, Commercial Van, Ideas & Tips, News & Updates, Van Ladder Racks

How to Choose a Ladder Rack for Your Work Van

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

A ladder racks for vans is one of the simplest and most effective ways to customize the storage space for your work van. While most vans come with some form of cargo transportation for the extra items which cannot fit inside the van, customizing the rack to suit your specific needs is one of the best ways to organize yourself and deliver the maximum efficiency in your business.

An added ladder rack will revolutionize your business regardless of whether you are a contractor, plumber, landscaping expert or other contractors.

Increasing the levels of safety as you transport your tools: the ladder rack is made in a manner that secures bulk cargo safely. This minimizes the possibility of something falling off the roof during transportation and keeps everyone safe on the road.

Enhancing capacity: The other amazing benefit which you get from this type of ladder is that it increases the amount of cargo which you can carry on the roof or other parts of the vehicle. A ladder takes a lot of space inside the van, but will not be a problem when placed atop the vehicle.
Efficiency and productivity: Most contractors waste a huge chunk of their time loading and unloading equipment from their vans. This is something which can be avoided when you attach the ladder to the top of the roof as it will increase access.

Those are a few of the benefits which come with installing the right rack for your ladder.

Assess you transport needs

The first thing to consider is the length and the weight of the ladder that you will be transporting, and also if you will be transporting other things in addition to the ladder. If you have other bulky items that you will be carrying on the ladder in addition to the ladder, you have to look for a large enough rack to accommodate the other items. Alternatively, you can have a rack custom made to suit your specific needs.

Consider your type of van

Not all rack types and design will fit onto all van types. The crucial thing to understand here is that different vehicle manufacturers make ladders and racks which are specifically suited to the vehicle model. The most commonly used vans by people in the delivery and service industry include the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and the Nissan NV series. When getting the rack, ask the supplier if it is customized to suit your specific vehicle model. If not, look for a supplier who has racks that will fit your vehicle, or opt for customized van ladder racks.

Think about the safety features

Safety is the most important thing when it comes to the use of vans for transportation purposes. Safety is actually the main reason why vans are outfitted with a rack, and you, therefore, need to ensure that the method used to fasten the ladder onto the rack, and the rack onto the roof, ensure maximum safety of the load towed. Ask whether the ladder rack has passed all the necessary safety tests to be fit for the road. Also, remember that you will be in the best position to get a rack that is safe to suit your transportation needs when you buy from competent suppliers.

Durability

The ladder rack will be on top of the van, and out in the harsh weather a lot of the time when you are out on projects. This means that elements such as water dirt, grime, and other dust will continuously be in contact with the material used to make the rack. If you want the rack to last, you have to make sure it is made of weather resistant material. Galvanized metal and alloys that are rust and corrosion resistant are the best. Painting and powder coating also helps form an extra protective layer and prevent the material used to make the ladder from getting rusty.

Ease of use

It is also crucial to consider how easy it is to use the Ladder Rack for Van that you are thinking about buying. The ease of use depends on the ladder’s accessibility, and the amount of manual operation needed. The ideal ladder should be hydraulic, and it should need an as little manual operation as possible. When the rack is easy to operate, the work cut out for your crew is reduced by half and they are able to get productive in other aspects of the project.

Variety

The last and most important consideration that you need to have in mind is the design options that are available and compatible with your vehicle. Do not settle on one design before you have seen everything that is available, looked at their features, strengths, and weaknesses. Take time in the comparative shopping, and this will enable you to arrive at the ideal rack system for your needs.

Those are the considerations that you ought to have in mind when selecting a rack system for your van. Ask for expert advice from auto mechanics and the rack suppliers before making a purchase. Most importantly, have an expert install the rack system for you. It will assure you that safety measures have been adhered to and that the proper installation process has been followed.

cargo van, Commercial Van, Ideas & Tips, Refrigerated Van, Van Ladder Racks

How to Choose Between Interior vs Roof Mounted Ladder Racks

Posted on July 23, 2020 by commercialvansolutions

For most mobile professionals the one piece of equipment that is necessary for almost all trades is a ladder. For some, it is an extension ladder, for others it is a step ladder for but for all mobile tradesmen the challenge is which ladder rack will best transport it safely and efficiently.

There are many different types of custom ladder rack, but the key decision seems to be split between the two main kinds: interior or roof mounted ladder racks. Ladder size is one consideration but so is the quality of your rack. Keeping it out of the elements is a positive factor for some tradesmen, especially if they work primarily indoors.

There are more aspects to consider for this decision than initially meets the eye and each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. One’s decision should focus on three key considerations: storage capacity, safety implications and productivity.

Shelley Ernst has written an excellent article that goes into the details on making the best decision for yourself or your fleet.

In comparing the pros and cons for each rack type she evaluates:

Ladder size – large 40-foot extension ladders can only be carried safely on a roof mounted ladder rack and interior racks are limited to ladders less than 12 feet depending on interior space available.
Rack costs – roof mounted racks cost more and for high-roofed cargo vans a drop down ladder is an essential investment.
Roof height clearance – roof mounted racks add the overall height of a vehicle and this can limit access to some areas and underground parking garages.
Wind resistance – roof mounted ladder racks increase wind drag on a vehicle and can reduce the fuel economy sometimes by as much as 20%.
Theft – interior ladder racks can be more secure and help prevent ladder theft.