When summer temperatures soar, the inside of a cargo van can feel more like an oven than a mobile workshop. But heat isn’t the only hazard—muscle strain from heavy lifting, shifting loads that can become projectiles, and awkward van entry and exit all put technicians at risk.
That’s where strategic van upfits come in. By emphasizing safety-first equipment—ramps, bulkheads, grab handles, and reinforced shelving—you can transform your van into a secure, efficient workspace that protects your people as well as your tools. At Levan, we specialize in upfit solutions that fight fatigue, prevent injuries, and keep your cargo exactly where it belongs.
The Hidden Dangers Inside a Work Van
In direct sunlight, the interior of a cargo van can rapidly overheat. Combine that with awkward lifting angles or a sudden load shift and you have a perfect recipe for back injuries and on-the-job accidents. Batteries degrade, adhesives lose strength, and unsecured gear can slam forward under hard braking—endangering both driver and passengers.
Van Ramps: Lift Smarter, Not Harder
Repeatedly hoisting 80-lb compressors or refrigerant tanks in and out of a van wears down even the strongest tech. Lightweight, spring-assisted folding or swivel ramps shorten the incline, letting one person roll heavy gear safely without straining their back. Many models rotate out of the doorway when not in use, so your cargo area stays clear and accessible.
Bulkheads: Your First Line of Defense
A heavy-gauge steel bulkhead (sometimes called a partition) separates the cab from the cargo bay, stopping loose tools or materials from flying forward during sudden stops. Look for contoured bulkheads built specifically for your van model; options with windows or perforated panels maintain rear visibility while keeping the crew protected.
Grab Handles: Safe Entry & Exit
Climbing into a mid- or high-roof van dozens of times a day is tough on knees and ankles. Well-placed, powder-coated steel grab handles give technicians the leverage they need to maintain balance and reduce fatigue, and most can be installed on door pillars or inside the cargo bay in under an hour.
Shelving & Securement Systems
Disorganization leads to wasted time—and unsecured tools lead to costly damage. Modular steel shelving keeps gear off the floor, provides custom tie-down points, and prevents items from sliding during transit. Add welded lips, dividers, or lockable bins to stop smaller parts from tumbling out when you hit a pothole.
Purpose-Built Upfits for Real-World Safety
At Levan, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. Every safety upfit is tailored to your trade, vehicle, and crew—whether that means a long-bed ramp for HVAC condensers, a windowed bulkhead for better rear visibility, or a full shelving package to lock down expensive meters.
Don’t let heat, heavy lifting, or shifting cargo sideline your team this summer. Let Levan Machine and Truck Equipment help you upfit smarter, stay safer, and work better. Ready to protect your crew and your reputation? Contact us today for a custom safety-focused van upfit.