Optimising Your Van: Van Shelving Ideas

For tradespeople and professionals who rely on their vans for work, developing tailored van shelving ideas can be crucial for creating an organised, efficient, and productive mobile workspace. A well-planned shelving system not only improves accessibility to tools and equipment but also enhances safety and efficiency on the job. No matter your trade, the right shelving setup can transform your work van into a streamlined and functional asset. 

Keep reading for our top hacks to level up your van’s interior storage capacity.

Why Invest in Van Shelving?

An unorganised van can lead to wasted time searching for tools, increased risk of damage to equipment, and even safety hazards while driving. By implementing a well-structured shelving system, you can:

  • Maximise storage space – Use every inch of your van effectively.
  • Enhance organisation – Keep tools and materials neatly arranged and easy to access.
  • Improve safety – Secure items to prevent movement while driving.
  • Boost productivity – Reduce downtime spent looking for tools and materials.

Van interior using bott Smartvan van racking - custom van racking shelving, boxes and van storage

Best Van Shelving Ideas for an Organised Workspace

When considering work van shelving ideas, it’s essential to choose a setup tailored to your specific trade and workflow. Here are some effective shelving solutions to consider:

1. Modular Van Racking Systems

bott Smartvan offers modular van racking solutions designed to provide a customisable and highly durable storage setup. These systems allow you to configure your shelving to suit your van’s size and your work requirements. With lightweight but sturdy construction, bott Smartvan’s racking solutions provide long-lasting performance without adding excessive weight to your vehicle.

Explore modular van racking options here.

2. Adjustable Shelving Units

Flexibility is key when it comes to van storage. Adjustable shelves allow you to modify shelf heights to accommodate different-sized tools and materials. This ensures that everything from power tools to small fixings has a designated place.

3. Shelf Dividers & Boxes for Small Parts

For tradespeople handling a variety of small items such as screws, nails, or electrical connectors, incorporating shelf dividers and boxes into your setup can prevent items from becoming mixed up. These accessories help maintain an orderly space and make it easier to locate what you need.

Check out shelving accessories here.

4. Pull-Out Shelves & Drawers

If you need to store heavy equipment or power tools, pull-out shelves and drawers provide easy access without requiring you to reach deep into the van. These sliding units improve convenience while keeping your gear secure during transit.

5. Overhead Shelving for Additional Space

To maximise vertical space, consider installing overhead shelving for storing lighter items like protective gear, extension cords, or paperwork. This keeps essential but infrequently used items out of the way while remaining accessible.

6. Van Door & Side Panel Storage

Making use of van doors and side panels for extra storage can free up valuable shelving space. Adding hooks, pockets, or magnetic panels to these areas is an efficient way to store frequently used tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, and safety gear.

Choosing the Right Shelving Accessories

Once you’ve selected the right shelving setup, adding accessories can further enhance functionality. bott Smartvan offers a wide range of van accessories that complement each shelving solution, including:

  • Non-slip mats to keep tools in place.
  • Storage boxes for categorising equipment.
  • Tool holders and clamps for securing power tools.
  • Label holders to quickly identify items on shelves.
Small tool storage for vans - perfo storage and bott boxes
Tool storage for van racking - perfo storage and bott boxes for parts storage
bott box with compartment for small parts storage on van racking floor

Browse van accessories here.


Investing in a high-quality van shelving system tailored to your trade can significantly improve efficiency, safety, and organisation. Whether you need a modular van racking solution or specific shelving accessories, bott Smartvan provides a range of options to suit every professional’s needs. By choosing the right shelving setup, you can transform your van into a well-structured mobile workspace that supports your daily operations.