Which double cabin is ideal for installation companies?
A double-cab van is often the best choice for installation companies because you can transport your team and equipment together. The cab can accommodate up to six people, while the rear offers plenty of loading space for tools, materials and equipment. This combination makes your business more flexible and efficient, as you can use a single vehicle for jobs that would otherwise require several vehicles. In this article, you can read about which models are well suited to installation work and how to optimise the loading space.
What is a double cabin and why is it suitable for installation companies?
A double cabin is a commercial vehicle with a full passenger cabin for four to six people and a separate load compartment behind the cabin. Unlike a single cab, which only has two or three seats, a double cab offers plenty of space for your entire team. The load compartment is separate from the passenger compartment, which means that your cab stays clean and comfortable, while tools and materials are transported safely and dryly in the rear.
This configuration is ideal for installation companies. You can drive to a job with your entire team without everyone having to come in a separate car. This saves on fuel costs, parking problems on site and coordination. What's more, you have all your equipment at hand: from toolboxes to spare parts and measuring equipment.
The practical advantages are numerous. You save time because your team can travel together and discuss the job on the way. Safety is improved because tools and materials are not lying around loose in the cab but are neatly stored in the load compartment. And you are more flexible: if you unexpectedly have to go to another location, you already have everything and everyone on board.
How much loading space do you require as an installer?
The required loading space depends greatly on the type of installation work you do. An electrician has different requirements than a plumber or HVAC engineer. On average, as an installer, you need at least 1.5 to 2 metres of loading length, with sufficient width for toolboxes and materials. The loading space height is also important: for upright storage systems and racks, you need a minimum height of 1.2 metres.
For electricians, organised storage with lots of compartments for small items is important. Think of cable reels, toolboxes and measuring equipment. You don't necessarily need a huge amount of volume, but you do need a smart layout. Plumbers, on the other hand, often need space for longer items such as pipes and larger equipment such as pumps or boilers. A loading space with a minimum length of 2 metres is more practical in this case.
HVAC engineers often work with larger appliances and require a higher load space. Air conditioning units, ventilation systems and accessories take up more volume. A load space with a height of at least 1.5 metres and sufficient width for large boxes and equipment is recommended.
When determining your required storage space, it is best to make an inventory of your standard tools and materials. Measure the dimensions of your toolboxes, allow space for spare parts and take into account occasional large jobs. Don't forget that you need space to be able to easily access your tools, so always allow 20-30% extra space on top of your minimum requirements.
Which brands and models are most suitable for installation companies?
Various brands offer reliable double cab models that are well suited to installation work. The Ford Ranger is popular because of its robust construction and good load capacity. It can easily transport heavy equipment and is known for its reliability. The load space is spacious enough for most installation work and there are many interior options available.
The Toyota Hilux has an excellent reputation for durability and low maintenance costs. This model is particularly appealing if you are looking for a vehicle that will last for years without any major problems. The cargo area offers sufficient space for standard fittings such as racks and toolboxes.
The Volkswagen Amarok combines comfort with practical loading options. The vehicle drives smoothly, which is important when you cover a lot of kilometres every day between different jobs. The cab offers a high level of comfort for longer journeys and the load compartment is suitable for various interior fittings.
The Mitsubishi L200 is an affordable option with good basic quality. The model offers sufficient load capacity for installation work and is solidly built. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable and standard interior solutions are available.
When choosing a model, it is wise to consider the maximum load capacity, the dimensions of the load space and the availability of interior options. Maintenance costs and the availability of parts in your region also play a role. Visiting a showroom helps you to experience the practical differences between models and see which one best suits your working methods.
How do you set up a double cabin for installation work?
A smart layout for your loading space makes the difference between working efficiently and constantly searching for tools. Start by installing shelving and storage systems that suit your specific materials. Aluminium racks are light but sturdy and protect your belongings while driving. Mount them on the sides of the load compartment so that you keep the floor free for larger items.
Toolboxes with drawers are useful for small items and accessories. Choose boxes that can be secured so that they do not slide around while driving. Many installers use a combination of fixed storage systems and removable toolboxes that can be taken inside when working on a job.
Protecting your materials is important. Use non-slip mats on the loading floor to prevent items from sliding around. For sensitive equipment such as measuring instruments, you can use special storage compartments with soft lining. Pipes and long materials are best mounted in special holders on the ceiling or side.
Safe storage prevents damage and accidents. Heavy items should always be placed at the bottom and against the cabin wall so that they do not shoot forward in the event of an emergency stop. Use straps or nets to secure loose items. A partition between the cabin and the load compartment provides extra safety for the occupants.
Accessories that make your work more efficient include LED lighting in the load compartment for working in the dark, an extendable load floor for easier access to your gear, and heated handles for cold weather. A tow bar can also be useful if you occasionally need to transport a trailer with large equipment.
Making optimal use of space also means tidying up regularly. Only take what you really need for the jobs ahead. Too much stuff makes your load space cluttered and increases fuel consumption due to extra weight.
How Van Den Hurk assists with the right double cab for your installation company
We understand that installation companies have specific requirements for their commercial vehicles. A double cab van must not only be able to transport your team, but also all the tools and materials you need on a daily basis. That is why we are happy to help you find the perfect vehicle that suits your working methods.
What we can do for you:
- Ample stock of double cabins from different brands, so you can choose what suits you best
- Personalised advice about loading space, layout options and practical matters for installation work
- Flexible financing options via purchase or lease, tailored to your business situation
- Furnishing options and accessories such as racks, toolboxes and protective materials
- Stock alert service which automatically notifies you when a desired model arrives
- Transparent pricing and clear information about all costs
Visit our showroom in Helmond to view and try out different models. Our advisors have extensive experience with installation companies and know exactly what to look for. We take the time to discuss your requirements and work with you to find the double cab that best suits your business.
Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation, or view our current range of double cabins on our website. You will soon be driving the ideal commercial vehicle for your installation company.
