DIY Van Organization: A Carpenter’s Guide to Smart Storage Solutions After 15 years as a carpenter and handyman in Perth running a property maintenance business, I’ve learned that the difference between a good tradesperson and a great one often comes down to organization. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to spend thousands on fancy storage systems to be professional.
The Real Cost of Brand-Name Storage
Walk into any tool store and you’ll be bombarded with sleek, shiny storage solutions. Milwaukie, DeWalt, and other premium brands offer impressive systems that can easily cost $3,000 to $5,000 for a complete van fit-out. They’re beautiful, sure. But let’s be honest — that money could buy a lot of tools that actually make you money.
The Smart Alternative: Custom Wood Storage
Here’s what most people don’t realize: with some basic carpentry skills and about $500 in materials, you can build a storage system that’s perfectly tailored to your needs. I did exactly this with my Hyundai 1-ton van, and the results have transformed my daily work flow.
The Build Breakdown
My system consists of several key components, each designed with specific purposes in mind:
Wheel Arch Units
I built custom shelving units over both wheel arches, creating dead space storage that’s perfect for bulk items. These shelves hold:
- Organized screw and nail compartments
- Frequently used trowels
- Common fasteners
- Small power tools
The beauty of custom shelving is that you can adjust shelf heights to exactly match your tools and supplies. No wasted space.
The Mobile Command Center
The centerpiece of my system is a large rolling tool chest built on heavy-duty casters. This isn’t just any box — it’s designed with specific compartments for:
- Hand power tools (drills, impacts, sanders)
- Different types of sealants
- Common paint supplies
- Specialty tools
The top features two sliding drawers that move front to back, perfect for accessing items without climbing into the van. These hold:
- Paint brushes
- Masking tape
- Measuring tools
- Other frequently accessed items
Overhead Organization
The often-neglected upper space of the van is prime storage real estate. I installed cargo rack-mounted shelving that holds:
- Longer tools
- Backup supplies
- Seasonal equipment
- Rarely used but necessary items
Traditional Toolboxes with a Twist
I also built two specialized boxes:
- A classic wooden toolbox for hand tools, designed with individual slots for each tool
- A custom screw organizer with labeled compartments for different sizes and types
The Real Benefits
The advantages of this setup go far beyond just saving money:
Visibility
Everything has its place and is immediately visible. No more digging through stacked boxes or wondering where you left that one specific tool. This alone saves me 15-20 minutes every day.
Accessibility
With 1200mm of clear floor space maintained down the center, I can easily reach everything without contortion acts. The rolling tool chest means heavy items come to me, not the other way around.
Customization
As my needs change, I can modify any part of the system. Try doing that with pre-made storage units.
Cost-Effectiveness
The entire setup cost about $500 and one solid day of work. Compare that to commercial systems starting at $3,000, and the math becomes obvious. That $2,500 saved bought me a new table saw and professional-grade router — tools that actually make me money.
Building Your Own System
If you’re considering this approach, here are some key materials and tools you’ll need:
Materials:
- High-grade 18mm plywood for structural components
- Pine for framing and support
- Heavy-duty casters (rated for at least 100kg each)
- Quality drawer slides
- Wood screws and construction adhesive
- Clear finish or paint for protection
Essential Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill/driver
- Measuring tools
- Level
- Pencil and marking knife
- Basic hand tools
The Bottom Line
Being professional isn’t about having the fanciest van interior — it’s about being organized, efficient, and reliable. A custom storage solution lets you achieve all three while keeping more money in your pocket for the tools that really matter.
Remember: every dollar saved on storage is a dollar you can invest in tools that actually generate income. In my case, that meant upgrading to professional-grade equipment that has already paid for itself many times over.
The best part? At the end of the day, you’ll have a van that’s organized exactly how you want it, built to last, and designed to make your work easier. And isn’t that what really matters?
To Conclude
My goal was not to impress or show off expensive brand names. Besides my clients never see the inside of my van; I am judged on the quality of service and workmanship, not the way I store my tools. Having fancy storage does not make you a better tradesman. So consider carefully before you go spend a fortune. And, the best screw box is the one you can make from plywood and timber, far better than those plastic ones.