While a lot of vans offer incredible flexibility for all trades, it pays to choose one that’s perfect for the jobs it’s needed for – and given the ever-present need for plumbers and electricians up and down the UK, it’s important that their needs are specifically catered for. Many manufacturers take these demands into account when designing their vans, but some are naturally better than others for the task. Here, our team has shortlisted the best vehicles we offer for these vital professions.
Van capabilities checklist
Before we give you our van recommendations, it’s important to quickly list the capabilities your vehicle needs to offer, if it’s going to be a sound long-term investment.
Ease of racking
Some vans are much easier than others to customise inside – whether that’s a simple shelving unit in the cargo space, or under-seat storage in the cabin, you need something adaptable to your needs.
Whether you’re kitting out just one van or an entire fleet, then it really pays to have professionals do the job for you; a little more upfront investment goes much further knowing that your racking’s built to last. Our own preferred partner, Mackworth, is always a great place to start; check out what they can offer you here.
Safety of cargo
Even just by carrying their own tools, plumbers and electricians could effectively have thousands of pounds worth of equipment in their van at any one time – so it pays to have extra security measures, particularly those afforded as standard with newer models. From shield locks to slam locking of cargo doors, there are plenty of options out there – it’s all about knowing what you want and where you need it.
Storage capabilities
Depending on the jobs you regularly take, you’ll need to know how long and high the chassis needs to be to fit everything in, especially the likes of piping. It’s an obvious point to make, sure, but it’s about getting everything in with room to spare – not a make-do-and-mend approach that risks safe storage.
Affordability
Obviously, if it’s going to need a bit of customisation after you’ve driven it away from the forecourt, it’s going to need to be very good value for money, however much you spend.
Motus’s top three picks
Ford Transit Custom
It’s a bit of a running joke for us that we include one of Ford’s Transits in most of our top van lists, but it’s because it offers so much across the board due to its incredible customisability. Available in Van, Kombi and Double-Cab-In-Van body styles, and with two body lengths and a pair of roof options to choose from, it’s perfect for electrical and plumbing jobs of all sizes.
It’s built to last both inside and out, too. The load floor has specially designed protection; there’s better lighting to make loading that little bit safer; and its practical, secure cargo restraints are some of the best on the market. It’s also jam-packed with safety and security features – from advanced key fobs and anti-tamper door locks to its super-strong body shell, you’ll be comfortable leaving your van as you get to work.
Volkswagen Transporter
Another popular choice for tradesmen, the VW Transporter offers up to 2,975mm of load space on its longest wheelbase, meaning you can comfortably store 3m pipes diagonally. It also features straight side walls that keep pipes and tools from damage. You can also get a pair of sliding doors, too, making access easier than ever.
If you want something a bit more compact, don’t worry; the Transporter has three roof heights, four engines, four engines and two wheelbases. Whatever you choose, there’s a reason the Transporter has already been named International Van of the Year for 2017.
Nissan NV400
Last but not least is Nissan’s ever-brilliant NV400. The five-year, 100,000-mile guarantee is enough to lure plenty of tradesmen to buy one of these excellent vans, but there’s so much more to offer plumbers and electricians. Built with room in mind, it can carry up to 17m³ of cargo, and piping up to 4.4m long. Combine that with its low floor and wide-opening doors and you have a practical vehicle that’s easy to load and unload.
As Nissan’s most popular fleet van, it’s convertible and comfortable, and its build quality is impeccable. It may not be as durable as the Transit, but it’s not far off – and the only difficulty you may have customising this van is in making sure you use all the space it has to offer, because there’s more than enough for any job here.
