Alternatives to Vans?

Has anyone get any views on mobile tool rooms as I like to call them. Effectively a small shipping container on wheels? Boss Cabins and Ground Hog both seem to manufacture them. I run a predominately hard landscaping firm. I have a number of teams and we cover off lots of different types of work i.e. paving, fencing, brickwork etc… so need a lot of different tools. I am forever emptying one load of tools out of a van and loading up with a different set for a different type of job – and invariable you will be on a fencing job when a client asks you to reset a few bricks that have been misplaced for years only to establish you don’t have a trowel with you! It struck me that one of these cabins might make life a bit easier as all tools for all scenarios could be left inside them and they could merely be towed to a site and left there. It would also mean that employees could commute direct to site so less down time, plus unlike a van they don’t need Tax, MOT, insurance (probably stick it on the public liability insurance to be safe but nowhere near the cost of van insurance), fuelling (except the towing vehicle) or servicing (as often at least). In addition I reckon if you look after the paint work then they should last a bit longer than the average van. I guess they would be more hassle than a van for a one day job but on a six week job for instance I could see some benefit. I have been in touch with my local council and they say that no special licences would be required to leave them on the road but ideally if possible you would stick them on a driveway anyway. Any thoughts?

Replies

Jez Young June 8, 2012 at 5:31pm

A couple of years ago I changed from an 3.5t LDV tipper to a 12" ifor williams flatbed with mesh kit and a commercial 4x4, using a similar logic and I am much happier lower fuel costs, lower depreciation & leave on site. my 4x4 can get up close on site and is a more comfortable ride your initial investment is higher but should be covered with your AIA annual investment allowance, I have worked with groundhogs before and they have no real issues as long as you are careful when raising and lowering. The only downside is towing laws and licences.
Michael Gurney June 8, 2012 at 5:42pm

i had a shed on wheels, an Ifor Wiliams bv84 racked out in front with all garden tools and mowers in back, towed by a VW transporter, worked well until it got stolen! have a look at the range.
John Cooke June 8, 2012 at 6:25pm

When I worked at LDC we often had a container on site and sometimes two, one for tools etc and in some less salubrious areas one to keep dumpers and diggers. They were always hired and I don't think they are expensive. If you wanted your own the logistics can be onerous: they arrive on BIG lorries with a serious hiab arm.

You can even get them with 'welfare' included: hot water and a toilet.

Sorry I can't remember where you get them but the site toilet/Herris fencing firms tend to have them. Great idea but you'd have to do some sums before you set up with your own.