Transit Custom Racking

All of our vans Transit Custom Racking including the Ford Custom Racking  are available with upgrades such as the Bespoke Yoke Racking Systems.

BESPOKE Racking Solutions

• Add the racking to the price of the van or your monthly payments

 

• Free fitting at the Yoke Headquarters just outside London and
  its done in a few hours as they do this day after day.

 

• Or the racking is delivered to your  home in kit form for you to fit
  as some of you like fitting it

 

• Add up to £3000 + VAT of tools to your van purchase and pay monthly

 

• Add the "Stretcher "option shown and strap down and store your Milwakee Tool Trolly
  safely in your van
  Protect your tools from Thieves

Transit Custom Racking


A modern transit custom racking system takes just 8 to 10 minutes to transform your van's storage system completely. The system assembles quickly and stands ready for immediate use.
The right setup demands more than speed alone. Your van's organisation must perfectly match your needs, whether you store Milwaukee power tools or Festool equipment. Professional transit custom shelving solutions now feature heavy-duty 12mm phenolic plywood that maximises every centimetre of space in short and long wheelbase vans.
Setting up transit van racking might seem overwhelming. This detailed guide will help you choose, install and optimise your van's storage system effectively. We will guide you through each step to create the perfect mobile workspace, from planning to final installation. See Ford Transit Minibus 9 seater

Planning Your Transit Custom Racking System

Your perfect transit custom racking system starts with good planning. The success of your mobile workshop depends on how you size up your needs, measure your space, and organise your tools before installation. A step-by-step approach now will save you time, money, and frustration later. See Ford Transit 350

Assessing your storage needs

A full picture of your storage needs lays the groundwork for an effective transit custom racking system. Your daily workflow and most-used tools should guide your decisions. Most tradespeople need to carry their tools efficiently while keeping enough space for materials. See Ford Transit Custom Service Schedule
These vital factors will shape your transit custom shelving:

• Current and future tool requirements
• Frequency of tool usage
• Size and weight distribution
• Accessibility needs during jobs

 

• Space for materials transport

Adaptability matters most. Your work needs will change over time, making a fixed racking system unsuitable for future use. Options like adjustable shelves and compartment dividers let you customise storage spaces to match your exact needs.
The vertical space needs attention too. Ferguson says, "Stack items based on size, and leave the top of your work van for the smallest and lightest parts". This strategy maximises space while keeping frequently used items within reach.

Measuring your van's interior dimensions

Exact measurements ensure your transit van racking fits right. The Ford Transit Custom offers two lengths and two heights, known as L1/L2 and H1/H2. See Ford Transit Custom Kombi
L1 Transit Custom has an inside length of 2554mm, while L2 stretches to 2921mm. H1 models give you 1406mm of loadspace, and H2 models reach up to 1778mm. The maximum width hits 1775mm, with 1351mm between the wheelarches. See How to Install Ford Transit Van Racking
Park your van on level ground before measuring. The install length runs from bulkhead to back doors, and height goes from floor to ceiling beam. Watch out for bumps or uneven surfaces that could affect your racking installation.
Vehicle-specific brackets that fit your van's side profile work best for space efficiency. These brackets connect to existing mounting points and maximise space without taking up the central load area. This setup gives you plenty of storage and enough room to transport materials. See Ford Transit Van Warning Lights

Creating a tool inventory list Transit Custom Racking

A detailed tool inventory strengthens your transit custom racking plans. It helps organise everything and protects your investment if tools go missing or get stolen.
List all your tools, equipment, and supplies. Include these details for each item:

• Tool name and description

 

• Brand and model

 

• Serial number

 

• Purchase date and cost

 

• Current location

This list serves several purposes. It shows exactly what needs storage in your racking system and helps design storage that fits everything. The list also helps with insurance claims if theft occurs. See Ford Transit MPG
A spreadsheet or equipment management software works best to track your inventory. Many pros use labels with clear bins or colour-coding to find tools quickly.
Good organisation saves time you'd waste looking for misplaced items. Rob from A Concord Carpenter points out that poor organisation creates "time sinks" where workers keep going back to their van searching for forgotten items.

Choosing the Right Transit Custom Shelving Materials

Your choice of materials plays a huge role in creating a working transit custom racking system. The type of material you pick - plywood, phenolic board, or metal - will affect your van's functionality, weight, and overall performance. Let's look at your options to help you pick what works best for you. See Ford Transit Custom PHEV Double Cab

Standard plywood vs. phenolic board

High-quality plywood forms the base of most transit custom shelving systems, usually 12mm thick. This material strikes the right balance between strength, weight, and affordability. Many brands use FSC-certified poplar plywood because it's environmentally responsible and grows very fast.
Phenolic board takes things up a notch from standard plywood. This 12mm resin-soaked plywood has a textured hexagonal pattern on one side and stays smooth on the other. Here's what makes phenolic board great:

• Better protection against stains and moisture

 

• Holds up better in tough conditions

 

• Looks more appealing

 

• Textured surface keeps tools from sliding

Customer feedback has led manufacturers to change their phenolic-treated racking systems. They now include the anti-slip hexaboard texture inside each compartment. This gives tools better grip and security. The outside keeps its smooth finish that's easy to clean. See Can A Ford Transit Custom Tow A Caravan?
Both standard plywood and phenolic options use traditional mortise and tenon joints in the front, back, base, and sides. This makes the units very strong and durable. These racking solutions stay lightweight, which makes them easy to install. Se Ford Transit Centre Near Me

Metal racking options Transit Custom Racking

Metal transit van racking offers a solid choice for tradespeople who want maximum durability. Steel shelving systems are incredibly strong and last long. Different manufacturers offer various thickness options. See Ford Transit Custom Double Cab M Sport
Metal racking systems come with:

• Steel construction and grey gloss finish

 

• Rails or extruded aluminium tracks that match your vehicle

 

• Ready-made holes that make adding accessories easy

 

• Floor braces that add stability

Lightweight steel systems can weigh less than both plywood and regular metal racks. You'll save on fuel and still get amazing durability and performance. This makes metal racking a great choice if you worry about fuel costs or battery life in electric vans.

Budget considerations

Finding the right balance between cost and function matters when you plan your transit custom racking system. Standard plywood gives you the most affordable starting point. You can upgrade to phenolic-coated options if you need them to last longer.
Plywood racking might seem cheaper at first, but think about the long-term costs. The extra weight means you'll spend more on fuel over time, which could eat up those early savings. Lightweight metal systems cost more upfront but might save you money through better fuel efficiency.
Remember these other cost factors:

• Setting it up yourself vs. hiring pros

 

• Making it fit your specific trade

 

• How long you want it to last

 

• Whether you'll need to change the setup later

Your budget should match what matters most to you - whether that's durability, light weight, or the ability to change your setup. Quality transit custom shelving helps you work better every day, so choose what fits your needs best.

Essential Transit Van Racking Components

Professional transit custom racking setups work on three key components that make the whole system functional and efficient. Learning about these elements will help you build a system that fits your workflow perfectly.

Base shelving units

Quality base shelving units serve as the foundation of any transit custom racking system. These units fit snugly against your Transit Custom 2012-23 van's sides. This design maximises storage space without taking up valuable floor area.
The best transit van racking systems come with:

• Premium 12mm hardwood plywood or hexaboard construction

 

• Precision-cut mortise and tenon joints that provide maximum strength

 

• Interlocking shelves that improve rigidity

 

• Designs that match your van's interior taper

Base units for the Ford Transit Custom typically stretch 1000mm long in SWB models. They stand about 1180-1350mm tall with 300mm depth at the base. These modular components let you create combinations that fit specific spots in your van - the driver side front, driver side rear, and passenger side rear.

Tool storage compartments Transit Custom Racking

The difference between professional and makeshift setups lies in smart compartmentalization. Today's transit custom shelving gives you plenty of storage options for items of different sizes.
Multi-compartment shelving creates dedicated spaces using removable 6mm plywood dividers spaced roughly 120mm apart. This creates a versatile storage solution. Each shelf includes retaining lips that cut down on rattling during transit - something metal shelves often struggle with.
Three-tier storage units with 12 separate compartments work great for organising smaller tools and supplies. This layout helps you locate exactly what you need quickly, and you won't waste time digging through messy piles.

Securing systems for power tools Transit Custom Racking

Your valuable power tools need special transit custom racking solutions. Professional systems include angled toolbox shelves built specifically for power tools and their cases.
These special components give you:

• Five-tier power tool storage with angled trays

 

• Shelves you can adjust every 50mm

 

• Space for toolboxes up to 440mm wide

 

• Notched edges that work with bungee cords for extra security

Many systems are built to work with specific tool storage brands. You'll find shelving made just for Makpac, Packout, and Festool systems.
The location of these securing systems plays a crucial role. Power tool storage works best at the driver's side front, while multi-compartment storage fits better toward the rear. This setup lets you grab frequently used tools quickly and keeps your van balanced.
These securing systems team up with proper base units and compartments to create a detailed transit custom racking system. Your investment stays protected and your productivity increases.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Custom racking reshapes a standard van into an organised mobile workspace. Building your own setup gives you complete control to customise based on your trade needs, unlike pre-installed systems.

Preparing your van Transit Custom Racking

Getting your van ready is a vital first step before installing transit custom shelving. Park your van on a completely flat surface to get accurate measurements and ensure level installation. Remove any existing plastic load liner since it will get in the way of proper mounting. The grey non-slip floor in Ford Transit Custom comes as two interlocking pieces that you'll need to take out temporarily.
Marking all floor mounting positions carefully comes before any drilling. This is a significant step, especially with electric vehicles where drilling into sensitive components could lead to damage. Brand-new vans might benefit from modern systems that offer "no-drill" options using existing mounting points.

Mounting techniques Transit Custom Racking

Plus nuts give you much stronger threads than standard roofing screws for secure mounting. Place angle brackets exactly between shelves and the van wall, then secure them with lock nuts to get the best stability. Here's what you need to do:

1. Build from the bottom upward in a methodical sequence

 

1. Start with bottom brackets, working progressively higher

 

1. Check proper alignment at each stage

 

1. Make sure all hardware is tight

Most transit custom racking kits come flat-packed with detailed assembly instructions. You can put together these push-fit designs with mortise and tenon joints in 10-30 minutes.

Securing your racking safely

Quality transit custom racking systems go through extensive testing to keep both cargo and occupants safe. Once installed, check these safety points:

• All mounting points stay tight and secure

 

• Weight distribution matches manufacturer guidelines

 

• Tools have proper securing mechanisms

Sudden stops can turn tools into dangerous projectiles. Use proper securing systems like bungee cords through the pre-notched edges that quality transit van racking provides. Adding bulkheads between load and passenger areas gives you extra security.
Note that sealing any drilled holes with self-etching primer prevents corrosion—this simple step often gets missed but will make your installation last longer.

Optimising Your Transit Custom Racking Setup

Your transit custom racking needs proper organisation to boost your daily efficiency. A well-optimised setup turns simple shelving into a precision workspace that matches your trade's needs.

Trade-specific organisation tips

Each trade needs its own unique transit custom racking setup. Catering businesses work best with open floor-level storage and retaining plinths that keep bulky items from sliding during transit. An electrician's setup should include dedicated shelving for wire storage and clips to secure conduit benders.
Plumbing professionals can benefit from these specialised arrangements:

• Heavy-duty shelving with storage bins for specialty parts

 

• Vertical storage solutions for pipes and longer materials

 

• Dedicated compartments for fittings and smaller components

HVAC technicians make more service stops daily than all but one of these technical trades. This makes easy access crucial in their transit van racking setup. Quick tool retrieval between frequent stops saves substantial time.

Labelling systems

A clear identification system improves workflow quickly. The my Sortimo labels create a very efficient work environment as part of the 5S method. This saves time and money while giving customers a professional impression.
Budget-friendly options include printable PDF labels that fit into storage unit slots. Colour-coded labels make finding tools quick and easy, which cuts down time spent searching for equipment.

Accessibility improvements Transit Custom Racking

Putting frequently used items within easy reach cuts down strain and movement. Slide-out drawers give excellent access to tools that would be hard to reach otherwise. You can see your inventory levels at a glance with transparent compartment drawers, which helps prevent overstocking.
Customizable van shelving units give you the flexibility to match storage to your specific needs. Top trays with rear access flaps make it simple to load and store long items while using all available height. Your thoughtful organisation of the transit custom racking system around workflow will boost efficiency on every job.

Conclusion Transit Custom Racking

Transit custom racking offers a revolutionary solution that helps professionals create an efficient mobile workspace. The right planning, material choices, and installation methods can transform any van into a well-laid-out mobile workshop.
Success depends on getting the details right. Your choice between phenolic board and metal racking, plus implementing smart labelling systems, shapes your daily workflow and ends up boosting your productivity on the job.
Storage needs evolve with time. Adaptable racking systems with adjustable components allow your setup to grow with your business needs. A smart, properly installed transit custom racking system protects your valuable tools and streamlines work processes. This saves you valuable time on every job.

FAQs Transit Custom Racking

Q1. How do I properly install transit custom racking in my van? To install transit custom racking, start by preparing your van on a flat surface and removing any existing load liner. Mark mounting positions carefully, use plus nuts for stronger threads, and build from the bottom up using angle brackets. Many kits come with push-fit designs that can be assembled in 10-30 minutes. Always conduct thorough safety checks after installation.
Q2. What materials are best for transit custom shelving? The choice depends on your needs and budget. Standard 12mm plywood offers a cost-effective solution, while phenolic board provides improved durability and moisture resistance. Metal racking systems offer maximum strength and can be lighter than traditional options, potentially improving fuel efficiency. Consider your specific requirements and long-term value when choosing materials.
Q3. How can I optimise my transit custom racking for my specific trade? Optimise your racking by tailoring it to your trade's needs. For example, electricians might benefit from dedicated wire storage and conduit bender clips, while plumbers may need heavy-duty shelving with storage bins for specialty parts. Implement a clear labelling system and position frequently used items for easy access to improve efficiency.
Q4. Can I stand up in a Ford Transit Custom van? You can stand up in the tall roof versions of the Ford Transit Custom. However, moving between the cargo area and the driver's seat can be a tight squeeze if you're over 5'8" tall. The available headroom depends on the specific model (H1 or H2) you choose.
Q5. How do I secure tools in my transit custom racking system? Secure your tools using dedicated power tool storage with angled trays and height-adjustable shelves. Many systems include notched edges to accommodate bungee cords for added security. Consider using specialised compartments designed for specific tool brands like Makpac, Packout, or Festool. Always ensure proper weight distribution and use appropriate securing mechanisms to prevent tools from becoming projectiles during sudden stops.