Van Selection – Cargo Van Conversion (2024)

Mostly a personal preference, but there are some serious considerations.

Only three brands/models dominate the full-size van market: the Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit and Mercedes Benz Sprinter/Freightliner. Foreign markets offer a wider brand selection, but if you look closer, many are based on one of the well-known three. Here in the US the Ram ProMaster is based on the European Fiat Ducato and the Sprinter used to be a direct import from Germany. Keep in mind, that sometimes there are distinct difference between European an American models.

Another US oddity is that Mercedes Benz sells Sprinters and Freightliners, but both are identical except for the nameplate.

Your initial choice of vehicle is likely based on brand preference, but soon a clear differentiation becomes noticeable:

  • Quality differences by brand
    Personally I think the Sprinter comes on top, followed by the Transit and ProMaster.
  • The Sprinter used to come in diesel only; nowadays gas models are available too.
  • Vehicle squareness differ by brand/model:
    The ProMaster looks a bit blocky and square, which makes it a favorite amongst builders. The Transit is fairly straight along the bottom walls, then bending inwards some towards the ceiling. The Sprinter is the worst, compromising placement of top cabinets and noticeably narrowing of the upper walkway in a finished van.
  • Important vehicle interior dimensions:
widthlengthheight
Ram ProMaster75″105″/123″/146″65″/76″
Ford Transit69″116″/134″/162″57″/72″/81″
MB Sprinter70″133″/174″68″/79″
  • MSRP:
    Price differences between the brands/models can be substantial, but actual negotiations at the dealership may level the playing field. Ultimately you may consider buying a used van; these new European style vans have been on the market now for almost 10 years and a sufficient number are available on the used market.

*When I write this in 2023 new vehicles are still in high demand, so prices are high and deals are hard to find. You also may have to wait up to a year for your special order.

Vehicle Selection

Go online and ‘build’ your vehicle to your specifications and find out the differences in retail price (MSRP) between the selected brands.

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Other important differences are:

  • US Dealerships with repair facilities:
    ProMaster and Transit have an extensive dealer network where repairs can be performed. The Sprinter lags very far behind, which you should be aware of.
Ram ProMaster2465
Ford Transit3000
MB Sprinter200
  • The Ford Transit uses the thinnest roof sheet metal, making it impossible to walk on it. Roof load capacity is also the lowest of the three.
  • MB Sprinter is overall probably the highest quality van.
  • Interior roof height:
    Each model has a variable interior height in combination with a variable length. The biggest change these European models offer over the older US vans, is interior height. This allows the occupants to walk straight up inside the van, which makes a huge difference. Lower interior height should therefore be avoided; some tall people should always consider the tallest vans.
  • Interior length:
    Usually two lengths are available; consider the extended lengths when traveling with more than one person or multiple pets.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD):
    For around $4000 extra, AWD would make going off-road much safer. But when you get stuck, and you will sooner or later, you will likely get stuck much further away from to main road. Make sure it’s a worthwhile investment.
  • Ford Transit – Trail Edition:
    Made with the VanLifer in mind, this package’s most distinct element is the 3.5” extra ground clearance that it offers. This is accomplished with a 2.25″ suspension lift and larger, 30.5″ tires. This, some included swivel chairs and a few other unimportant extras will set you back another $12,000.
    Higher clearance and better tires are great for off-road use, but in my opinion, an after-market 2″ lift kit and a set of larger tires would be much less expensive.
    In the end you have to decide how much you like to spend on an already too expensive vehicle.
  • Engine selection:
    Multiple engine types are available; the ProMaster is the only one with front-wheel drive (FWD).

What makes a van stealthy?
The term ‘stealthy’ has been floating around with VanLifers from the very beginning. Simply to avoid confrontation with law enforcement.

A basic white colored van could easily imitate the usual work van, you see on every street and wherever you go. It will also save you some on the purchase price an it may or may not keep your interior cooler during the hot summer months.

Over the years, some communities have become so resistant to overnight camping, that they prohibited it altogether. And law enforcement can still easily identify you as an RVer, just by your out-of-state license plate and the ceiling vent on top of the vehicle.

So I am skeptical about being stealthy, but you may consider it during your purchase!

BTW I regard my current van as stealthy in a different way. It still has the roof vent, but except for practically invisible flexible solar panels on the roof, my van’s exterior is completely standard. No additional steps or bumpers, racks or bikes attached. No retractable sun shade or fancy logos. It’s less noticeable as an RV in daily life; that is sufficient for me.

How To Buy A Vehicle At A Fair Price

Van Selection – Cargo Van Conversion (4)

Finding a good deal on a new vehicle has always been a challenge and the Internet has only made things more complicated. OK, now you can research the invoice price of any vehicle, but when you try three separate websites, you’ll probably get three different invoice amounts. And you may still have to do some bargaining over you’re trade-in.

I researched this topic extensively and came up with the following action plan. It may not be decisive, but may change the odds a bit in my favor and improve my chances on a good deal. I’ll use it to buy my new cargo van, but it applies to your vehicle too.

Finding a good deal on a new vehicle has always been a challenge and the Internet has only made things more complicated. OK, now you can research the invoice price of any vehicle, but when you try three separate websites, you’ll probably get three different invoice amounts. And you may still have to do some bargaining over you’re trade-in.

I researched this topic extensively and came up with the following action plan. It may not be decisive, but may change the odds a bit in my favor and improve my chances on a good deal. I’ll use it to buy my new cargo van, but it applies to your vehicle too.

Certain Deals Are More Likely At Certain Times

WHENWHY
Winter MonthsOffer the best discounts.
Avoid SpringtimeTax refunds allow for increased car sales.
Year-End DealsTo meet year-end sales quotas and limit year-end inventory.
End of the Month
End of the Quarter
At the end of each month or quarter, increased sales may lead to a better bonus.
Negotiate Early in the WeekFewer customers means more attention of the sales person.
Buy Late in the DayThe sales person will make it a quick deal, so he/she can go home instead of spending hours to make a sale.

I would have preferred to buy at the end of the year, but I can’t wait that long. It is now early May and according to the above schedule the end of the quarter (June 30th) should be the best time to buy, with late in the day on Monday/Tuesday June 29th/30th as the preferable time.

Preparation

Now that I know WHEN to buy, I have to start doing some research on the dealerships.

  • Locate all nearby dealerships – Go to the manufacturers website and locate at least 5 dealers, but many more if possible. I found approx. 20 dealerships.
  • Include out-of-town car dealerships.
  • Check up on the salesperson and dealership – The reviews at Yelp.com work well to weed out any bad apples. Use your own judgment, not every review should be taken seriously!

Pricing

  • To order your cargo van from the factory, should cost you the same or less than off the lot.
  • Good deals only happen when the circumstances favor you – Price should be under invoice and that happens only when the manufacturer has special dealer/customer incentives.
  • On-line buying is certainly a good option – Using an Internet or Fleet sales manager tend to result in a lower purchase price, as they typically work on a regular salary plus a bonus, based on volume.
Van Selection – Cargo Van Conversion (5)
  • To order your cargo van from the factory, should cost you the same or less than off the lot.
  • Good deals only happen when the circumstances favor you – Price should be under invoice and that happens only when the manufacturer has special dealer/customer incentives.
  • On-line buying is certainly a good option – Using an Internet or Fleet sales manager tend to result in a lower purchase price, as they typically work on a regular salary plus a bonus, based on volume.
  • Expensive vehicles may produce thousands in profit to the dealer, yet with budget cars, the profit may only be in the hundreds.
  • With a factory order, your actual customer rebate may not be the same incentive that was offered at the time you placed your order. Incentives are applied when the car is delivered.
  • Know the out-the-door price before you sign the buyer’s order.
  • Now find the invoice price of the car.

Many websites offer that service for free, some ask for a small fee. In the end, I found edmunds.com to be most accurate. Input your vehicle and options at several different websites; each will return different numbers, but soon you’ll be able to collect the right info.
Now you can calculate the real dealer cost and subsequently the OTD (out-the-door) price. This final price includes tax, title and insurance.

Test Drive

You should already have researched your vehicle, but now is time for a test drive.

The Negotiation

  • Decide whether to do the negotiations with a sales person or primarily by email with an Internet or Fleet manager.
  • Trade-in: Try to get the best deal for the new vehicle first and only then focus on my trade-in.
  • Walk away, if necessary! You have the right to stand up and leave the negotiations at any time and doing so may generate the last effort and best offer from the dealer, just before you go.
  • Do not make the first offer.
  • Do not negotiate with yourself. Let the dealer make a counter offer first.
  • Always be light-hearted when haggling; make a joke, even though it may be a lousy one. Don’t be combative.
  • Be silent at the appropriate time or pause and make clear, that you’re not in a hurry and that you have other alternatives.
  • Make sure the deposit is refundable.

The Email Conversation

Contact the Internet or Fleet manager at all dealerships on your list.

First Email With Your First Bid

As previously discussed, I want to buy a Ford Transit 250 Medium Roof Cargo Van with a 3.7L V6 FFV engine, 6-speed Automatic w/148″ WB, Sliding Passenger Side Door as soon as possible. I have done the research on the vehicle and decided to do a factory order. I’m getting price offers from multiple local dealers and will take the best deal offered to me. To make the decision based on the same perimeters, please bid on the OTD (out-the-door) amount.

Van Selection – Cargo Van Conversion (6)

The options, I want are as follows:

  • KT Color: Lunar Sky Metallic
  • X7L 3.73 Limited Slip Axle Ratio
  • 18D Exterior Upgrade Package
  • 21D Charcoal Cloth Seats
  • 53B Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package
  • 542 Short Arm Power Adjustable Heated Exterior Mirrors w/Turn Signals
  • 59B Trailer Wiring Provisions
  • 60C Cruise Control w/Message Center
  • 63C Heavy-Duty Alternator
  • 647 16″ Styled Aluminum Wheels w/Locking Lug Nuts
  • 67D Trailer Brake Controller
  • 92E Privacy Glass w/Rear Window Defogger
  • 17K All Around Windows w/2nd Row Driver & Passenger Side Flip Open Glass

Please provide the following information:

  1. List the OTD (out-the-door) price including taxes, incentives and all fees.
  2. Confirm that all options are available.
  3. Include the estimated delivery date.

24 Hours later: Email again, if no response was received

Second Round Of Emails

After you have received most bids, reply to these offers as follows:

Thanks for your bid on the Ford Transit 250 Medium Roof Cargo Van with a 3.7L V6 FFV engine, 6-speed Automatic w/148″ WB, Sliding Passenger Side Door. Your OTD (out-the-door) price offer was $00,000. The best bid I received was $00,000.

To be fair, I give you the chance to beat that offer. So what is your best price, if I buy today?

Go For The Best Offer

Then with the best offer in hand, call your contact at the dealership and say you want the buy with them, but you have a bid that is $300 lower and that if they match it, you’ll buy from them today.

This is an attempt to get another few hundred dollars off the best offer. They may counter with $100-$200, but if they don’t, ask for some free service or free products. In my case, I would ask for free front carpet and an additional set of keys with a total value of $69.00. If they still say No, just accept the offer.

Make The Purchase

Go to the dealer, sign all the required documents and get a buyer’s order, which is different from a final sales contract, that includes a description of the make, model, color, options and all the important numbers: MSRP, invoice, OTD (out the door) price and all fees including tax, title, document and registration. If you go with a factory order, the VIN should be supplied to you by the dealer at a later date.

Expect to make a deposit to hold the vehicle (less than $1,000)

Delivery

First check the new van’s VIN number and then make sure all your options from your buyer’s order are included. Walk around the vehicle, look for damages and then take a test drive. If everything is in order, sign the papers and drive home.

Van Selection – Cargo Van Conversion (7)

QUESTIONS, SUBMISSIONS OR CORRECTIONS

The missing parts of the complete van conversion process are being added regularly to this Build Guide. If you want to suggest a specific build option for this guide, submit a content correction or have a general inquiry, send me an email.

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Disclaimer: Throughout this guide, all guidance, building techniques and other information are based on my own experiences of converting a cargo van into a Tiny House on wheels. This guide is only for informational purposes; always build according to local and national standards. Be aware that such a project is expensive, requires a substantial amount of broad knowledge of building techniques and involves more work hours than you can imagine. Besides of hitting a finger with a hammer, much more serious harm can be done when you work with 12V/120V electrical systems, propane installations, power tools, etc. Tapping into the vehicle’s own systems can also damage its functionality. Get professional help where needed; never take any risk!

Van Selection – Cargo Van Conversion (2024)

FAQs

Is it cheaper to convert a van or buy one? ›

Determining which option is cheaper—buying a ready-made camper or converting a van—depends on several factors: Budget: If you have a limited budget, a DIY conversion may be more cost-effective in the long run. However, it requires upfront investments in materials and tools.

What is the best van to convert for van life? ›

The Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit or Ram Promaster are excellent choices for family conversions. Their size and versatility make them ideal, offering various roof heights and lengths to accommodate sleeping areas, a kitchen, and ample storage for a family of four.

How much should a van conversion cost? ›

When converting a van yourself, you can invest as much or as little money as you want. However, when a company converts your van, base prices are often fixed, and you can add additional features for an extra cost. Professional conversions can vary from $30,000 to upwards of $200,000.

What vans can be converted to camper vans? ›

The Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram ProMaster are popular choices for camper van conversion. Take into account your budget and personal preferences when making a decision. Research the conversion process to ensure a smooth and efficient project.

What is the first thing to do when converting a van? ›

The first real step in any DIY campervan conversion is stripping out the current interior of the van and giving it a good clean. How long this takes will depend on the type of van you've bought and whether you discover any problems along the way.

Are van conversions worth it? ›

While it's certainly not going to be cheap, converting a campervan can bring some significant savings over buying one off-the-peg - though you have to be careful with your budgeting.

Is a converted van a good investment? ›

A Campervan is a depreciating asset – let's talk about it.

Your returns will more than offset your van's depreciation bill. Plus, you can write off depreciation as an expense against your income, which will save you big on your tax bill.

What is the most reliable van of all time? ›

The Top 5 Vans for Reliability
  • Ford Transit. The Ford Transit has long been a staple in the commercial van segment and has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable vans on the road. ...
  • Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. ...
  • Volkswagen Transporter. ...
  • Renault Master. ...
  • Peugeot Expert. ...
  • Conclusion.
Jun 15, 2023

Can you daily drive a conversion van? ›

The average lifespan of a camper van can range from 10-30 years, depending on how often you use it. If you're using it as a conversion van daily driver, it's more likely to last closer to 10 years. Plus, it'll require more regular maintenance since you'll be racking up miles on it quicker.

How many miles per gallon does a conversion van get? ›

You can expect a camper van to get 13-18 MPG and average about 15.5 MPG. Camper vans are large vehicles, meaning they won't be as fuel-efficient as cars. However, a large vehicle may be the best choice if you want to fit everything in one place and have a dedicated sleeping space.

Why are old conversion vans so expensive? ›

The costs primarily stem from the extensive labor and high-quality materials required for customization. Specialized craftsmen work for hours to install everything from ergonomic seats and smart technology to custom cabinetry and built-in appliances.

What is the best cargo van to live in? ›

We consider the Mercedes Sprinter Van the best van for van life. It has positives for every category, except for the cost category. When you consider cost, there are two main pieces – upfront cost and long-term maintenance cost.

What is the best old van to convert to campers? ›

Ford Transit - Combining versatility, practicality, and sturdiness, the Ford Transit remains a top choice for van/campervan conversions. Being a Ford, they are easy to drive, often inexpensive to run, and are a great choice for any first-time campervan owner.

How to choose a van for conversion? ›

Here's what to consider:
  1. Size. Conversion vans are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit your needs, whereas minivans are most often only available in their standard size.
  2. Price. ...
  3. Capacity. ...
  4. Safety. ...
  5. Accessibility. ...
  6. Cargo Space. ...
  7. Family Options. ...
  8. Cost.

Is it better to buy an RV or convert a bus? ›

It is true that a bus can be converted cheaper than buying a new RV, but that isn't always the case with used ones. If you are willing to purchase an older RV, you could find something cheaper than your dream bus conversion. But then you'd have to live with the reality that you didn't get exactly what you wanted.

Why are converted vans so expensive? ›

So, why do these specialty vehicles come with such a significant price tag? The costs primarily stem from the extensive labor and high-quality materials required for customization.

Can you make money on a van conversion? ›

Yes, converting vans into campers can be a profitable business. There's a growing market for customized camper vans, as they offer flexibility and convenience for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

References

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