If you’re searching for a custom van builder that brings vision, craftsmanship, and performance together, you’re in the right place. At VANNON, we specialize in transforming empty vans into fully personalized, adventure-ready homes on wheels. Whether you're dreaming of a full-time vanlife setup, a weekend getaway vehicle, or a mobile workspace, our process is designed to make your custom van build seamless and stress-free.
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Connect with VANNON
The first step in your custom van journey starts with a conversation. Fill out our Contact Form to share your vision, budget, and preferred timeline. This helps us understand where you're at and what you're looking to build.
Prefer to talk it out? We’re happy to jump on a call or meet at The VANNON Van Center l—our process is flexible, and we’re here to meet you wherever you are.
Step 2: Initial Concept & Budget Estimate
Once we’ve reviewed your ideas, we’ll provide a rough rendering and a preliminary budget range. This early concept is a directional guide—not a final quote. Why? Because giving a true, fixed price this early in the process simply isn’t realistic—or responsible.
The cost of materials, components, and specialty gear can fluctuate, sometimes significantly. Instead of throwing out a number that may change later, we believe in being transparent from the start. We don’t inflate estimates to cover potential cost swings, and we won’t lowball to win your business. Our goal is to build trust, not false expectations.
This rough estimate helps us get aligned on the general scope and feasibility of your van build, but final pricing is only possible once we’ve nailed down the exact details, materials, and specs.
Step 3: Secure Your Spot with a Deposit
When you're ready to move forward with your custom build, a $2,000 non-refundable deposit secures your place in our build queue. After that, we dive into the details—finalizing your build scope, confirming specifications, and locking in your project start date.
Step 4: Parts Deposit – 45 Days Out
About 45 days before your scheduled build start, we’ll collect a parts deposit. This allows us to order all the components needed to keep your project on schedule. From cabinetry and insulation to solar systems and off-grid tech, everything is prepped in advance so we can hit the ground running when your van arrives at the shop for its transformation.
Step 5: Build Timeline, Payments & What to Expect
As your custom van build officially begins, we’ll provide a clear timeline along with scheduled payment milestones. Here's how it breaks down:
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Start of Build: Your first labor payment is due.
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Mid-Build: Second labor payment is collected.
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Pre-Delivery: Final labor payment is due just before handoff.
Now, let’s talk about what happens during the build—and what you should expect to see along the way:
In the early stages, most of the work happens behind the walls. We’re talking about foundational infrastructure: insulation, wiring, plumbing, framing, and other critical systems that are essential to the performance and longevity of your build. It’s not the flashy stuff you might see on Instagram—but it’s what makes your van reliable, road-ready, and built to last.
We understand you’re excited to see progress photos—and we’ll absolutely keep you in the loop—but it’s helpful to know that the "wow" moments typically don’t appear until well past the halfway point. That’s when the cabinetry gets installed, the interior takes shape, and your vision truly comes to life. This is the stage where the van really transforms from a shell into a fully custom mobile space.
Once the physical build is complete, your van enters our two-week Quality Assurance (QA) phase. This is a rigorous testing and inspection process where we verify every detail—from electrical systems to cabinetry fit, heating systems to solar performance. We stress-test every feature so your van is fully dialed-in and road-ready.
Why Choose VANNON for Your Custom Van Build?
Choosing the right custom van builder isn’t just about finding someone who can install cabinets or bolt in solar panels. It’s about partnering with a team that understands how form, function, and long-term reliability all work together. That’s where The VANNON Difference comes in.
What Sets Us Apart:
Built for Performance — Not Just for Show
We design every van to thrive in the real world. From climate insulation and energy systems to water storage and structural framing, we build with durability and usability in mind. No shortcuts –just well-executed craftsmanship that’s tested under real conditions.
True Customization — No Cookie-Cutter Layouts
Every VANNON build starts with your lifestyle, not a pre-made template. Whether you're planning off-grid adventures, a mobile office sanctuary or weekend getaways, we tailor each layout, feature, and finish to support how you actually plan to use the space.
Transparent Process, Realistic Expectations
We’ll never overpromise or underquote just to get you in the door. Material costs shift, supply chains change—and we’re upfront about that. With us, you’ll always know where your project stands, what’s happening next, and why it matters.
Communication You Can Count On
From your first contact to final handoff, we keep the conversation going. You’ll receive thoughtful updates, realistic timelines, and honest answers at every stage. We value relationships just as much as results.
Quality Assurance That Goes the Extra Mile
Before your van ever hits the road, it goes through a two-week QA process where we test, stress, and dial in every system. It's not just a checklist—it’s a commitment to craftsmanship. That’s The VANNON Difference: performance-tested, fully functional, and ready to go the moment it leaves our shop.
Whether you’re building a mobile office, a weekend escape rig, or your full-time home on wheels, VANNON is the custom van builder you can trust to bring your vision to life—with precision, transparency, and care.
Ready to start your custom van journey? Reach out through our Contact Form and let’s get rolling.