The Ultimate Guide to Converting a Van into a Campervan: From Sourcing to Handover
Converting a van into a campervan is an exciting process that transforms a standard vehicle into a fully functional home on wheels. At SJB Customs, we take pride in delivering high-quality camper conversions tailored to our customers’ needs. In this blog, we’ll walk you through our nine-stage camper conversion process, from sourcing the right van to the final handover on New Campervan Day!
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Stage 1: Sourcing the Perfect Vehicle
Every great campervan starts with the right base vehicle. Some customers bring their own vans, while others ask us to source one for them. When choosing a van, we consider factors like:
• Size & Layout – Do you need a compact camper for solo adventures or a larger van for family road trips?
• Mileage & Condition – Ensuring the van is reliable and mechanically sound.
• Budget – Matching the right van to the customer’s price range.
Once we’ve found the ideal vehicle, we move on to the exciting part—designing the perfect camper conversion!
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Stage 2: Choosing Colours & Specifications
This is where the magic begins! The customer works closely with our team to personalise their camper, choosing:
• Interior Colour Scheme – Light and airy, dark and cosy, or something bold and unique?
• Layout & Features – Do you need a fixed bed, pop-top roof, or extra storage?
• Appliances & Electrics – Options include fridges, cookers, solar panels, and leisure batteries.
• Seating & Sleeping Arrangements – Rock and roll beds, swivel seats, and more!
Every detail is carefully planned to create a campervan that suits the customer’s lifestyle and adventures.
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Stage 3: Workshop Build – The Main Conversion Begins
Once the design is finalised, it’s time for our skilled team to bring it to life. Our workshop is a hive of activity, with:
• Coach Builders – Modifying the van’s structure and installing windows, roofs, beds and seats.
• Cabinet Makers & CNC Machine – Cutting and assembling custom furniture for the perfect fit.
• Auto Electricians – Wiring up lighting, USB ports, batteries, solar panels, and onboard tech.
• Plumbers – Installing water tanks, sinks, showers, and gas systems for cooking.
This stage is where the van truly begins to take shape as a functional, stylish campervan.
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Stage 4: Upholstery by Auto Trimmers
A key part of the transformation is the upholstery, handled by expert auto trimmers. This stage includes:
• Seats & Bed Upholstery – Choosing high-quality, durable fabrics. Vinyl is very popular as it is durable and washes easily.
• Soft Furnishings – Matching embroidery and mattress with other interior touches.
Quality upholstery not only enhances the aesthetics but also improves comfort for long road trips.
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Stage 5: Completing the Build
With the main conversion work finished, we begin assembling the final pieces:
• Installing cabinets, worktops, and storage units.
• Fitting flooring and wall panels.
• Ensuring all appliances, lighting, and electrics are fully operational.
The van is now looking like a campervan, but we’re not done yet!
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Stage 6: Testing the Campervan
Before the van is ready for adventure, we carry out comprehensive tests to ensure everything works as it should:
• Electrical Tests – Checking all wiring, plugs, batteries, and lighting.
• Gas & Plumbing Checks – Ensuring safe operation of cookers, heaters, water systems, and gas fittings.
• Structural Integrity – Verifying that all furniture is secure and built to last.
Our goal is to ensure that every campervan meets the highest safety and performance standards.
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Stage 7: Valeting & Deep Cleaning
Once testing is complete, the van is given a full professional valet inside and out. This includes:
• Deep-cleaning the interior to remove dust and workshop debris.
• Polishing the exterior for a showroom-quality finish.
• Double-checking for any small imperfections before delivery.
The van is now looking spotless and ready for its new owner!
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Stage 8: PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection)
Before handover, we conduct a final Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). This involves:
• A full walkthrough of the conversion to ensure everything meets our quality standards.
• Checking all paperwork, warranties, and documentation are in order.
• Making sure the camper is completely road-trip ready!
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Stage 9: Customer Handover – New Campervan Day!
Finally, the big day arrives—New Campervan Day! We welcome the customer to our workshop for the official handover. This includes:
• A guided tour of their new campervan.
• A demonstration of how everything works, from electrics to gas systems.
• Answering any final questions and handing over the keys.
Seeing our customers drive away, ready to explore the world in their brand-new campervan, is the most rewarding part of the process.
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Ready for Your Own Campervan Adventure?
At SJB Customs, we’re passionate about creating high-quality, custom campervans built for adventure. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway van or a full-time home on wheels, we can help bring your dream camper to life.
Get in touch today to start your camper conversion journey with us!
Our Customer: “I can’t recommend SJB highly enough, they helped source the van, then very helpful with choices etc, nothing was ever any trouble. My wish list was catered for resulting in a pure stunner of a camper. If you are thinking about conversion, don’t think… JUST DO IT. Thank you team SJB”
