The right van makes all the difference for any landscaper. As a landscaper, you're on the move every day, traveling from one job to the next, with your entire inventory packed in your van. From lawnmowers to spades, from plants to waste, everything needs to come along. Plus, everything must function properly. Your commercial vehicle is not just a simple means of transport, but a mobile office, storage space, and tool shed all in one. That’s why choosing the right van is incredibly important. In this article, we dive deeper into the world of landscaper vans. What are the best models? How can you set up your van to be practical and organised? And are there electric alternatives? Whether you are a solo landscaper or part of a team: in this article, we’ll guide you towards the ideal commercial vehicle.
Choosing the right commercial vehicle is not a decision to be taken lightly. For landscapers, the vehicle must not only be powerful and spacious but also sustainable and efficient. Let’s explore some models that stand out:
Iveco Daily: The Iveco Daily is renowned for its versatility. With a payload of up to 7 tons and a towing capacity of 3,500 kg, this van is perfect for landscapers transporting heavy machinery and materials. Thanks to its ladder chassis, the Daily is suitable for various body types, such as a closed van or an open cargo bed. Additionally, the Hi-Matic 8-speed automatic transmission provides extra driving comfort.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular choice among professionals due to its reliability and spacious load capacity. With a cargo volume of up to 17 m³ and powerful engines, this van is perfect for a range of landscaping tasks. Moreover, the Sprinter comes in various lengths and heights, making it adaptable to specific needs.
Volkswagen Transporter: For landscapers working frequently in urban areas, the Volkswagen Transporter is an excellent option. This mid-sized van combines manoeuvrability with a load volume of up to 6.7 m³. The Transporter is available in different versions, including a pick-up variant for transporting plants and materials.
Even if your van is technically perfect, without a smart interior layout tailored to your work as a gardener, you won’t get the most out of it. Start with the basics: a durable floor. This prevents damage to the van’s floor when loading tools or heavy materials. Combine this with moisture-resistant plastic wall panels, which not only protect but are also easy to clean. Ideal for transporting wet soil, plants, or compost regularly.
Next, think about storage systems. For long tools like spades and pruning saws, open cabinets on the side of the cargo area are perfect. For smaller items or electric tools, a floor drawer system is a real asset. This way, your materials are kept organised and within easy reach.
Do you often carry ladders or long planks? Then a sturdy roof rack or roof bars is a must. This allows you to use the roof as additional storage and keep the interior space free. Finally: security. Especially if you're carrying valuable electric tools, additional locks or a good alarm system are a wise investment. Theft is not only financially inconvenient, but it can also disrupt your entire schedule.
So, outfitting your van is not just a simple task. If you’d like to add custom cladding to your commercial vehicle, the BAS World workshop is happy to help tailor your van to your exact specifications.
With stricter environmental regulations and an increasing number of zero-emission zones in cities, electric vehicles are becoming more attractive for landscapers. Take the Renault Trafic E-Tech, a modern electric van that grants access to zero-emission zones. Its range is more than sufficient for daily routes and stops at clients or suppliers.
For landscapers using electric tools, it’s smart to install an inverter in the van. A 2000 VA inverter is usually powerful enough to charge devices while you're working. For even more autonomy, solar panels on the van's roof can supply additional energy. This way, you are no longer reliant on power outlets at your location and can continue working seamlessly, even in more remote areas.
A landscaper’s van is not just a vehicle, but an extension of your business. Therefore, it must also meet business requirements in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and professionalism. A smart setup saves time and prevents damage to materials, directly reducing costs. Electric models also help cut fuel costs and are often financially advantageous.
Sustainability is also becoming increasingly important. That’s why it’s worth choosing interior materials that are durable and moisture-resistant, such as metal and plastic. This can save you significantly on replacement costs in the long run. Moreover, an organised, clean van shows that you, as a landscaper, are not only attentive to green spaces but also to professionalism.
Electric commercial vehicles require different maintenance compared to traditional diesel or petrol vans. Here are some tips to keep your electric landscaper van in top condition:
Battery Maintenance: Charge the battery regularly and avoid letting it fully deplete. If possible, use shore power to charge the battery overnight.
Electrical System Check: Have the van’s electrical systems checked periodically by a specialist. This helps prevent malfunctions and extends the van’s lifespan.
Cleaning: Keep the cargo area clean and dry to prevent corrosion and damage to electrical components. Use moisture-resistant materials in the setup.
The ideal landscaper’s van combines strength, space, durability, and efficiency. Whether you choose a robust Iveco Daily, a nimble Volkswagen Transporter, or an electric Renault Trafic E-Tech, it’s important that the van meets your specific needs and tasks. Invest in a well-thought-out setup and consider switching to electric driving to be prepared for the future.
At BAS World, we’re happy to help you find the perfect commercial vehicle for your landscaping business. Contact us for personal advice and explore our wide range of new and used commercial vehicles and interior setup options.
