Our Process | From Concept to Completed Van

  • Fill out the van build application under the “Contact” tab in the header or schedule a 30 minute consultation with us. We will review your application and respond shortly. We typically respond to applications the same business day.

  • In this phase, we’ll work with you to review upgrade options, minor changes or additions, and the variety of finishes available for our floor plans. Based on your selections, we’ll provide a detailed quote reflecting your chosen floor plan and upgrades.

    Modifications to the floor plan, upgrades, or finishes can be made up to 30 days before your build start date. This stage is designed to give you a clear idea of cost and design, and to ensure we’re the right fit for each other before moving forward.

  • To reserve your build slot, we require a $3,000 deposit. This can be paid via credit card, Zelle, wire transfer, or check. The deposit is non-refundable and will be applied toward the total cost of your build.

    As mentioned, you’ll have up to 30 days prior to your scheduled build start date to make any changes or finalize details. For now, the priority is securing your spot in our production schedule. We can refine the specifics of your build as we get closer.

  • We build on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 144, 170, and 170EXT platforms, working with both cargo and crew vans. Cargo vans are preferred, as they integrate best with our floor plans.

    As a complementary service, we can assist with sourcing or placing a factory order for your van. When Activan facilitates the order, Mercedes will ship the van directly to our shop at no additional cost. 90% of our clients choose this route.

    If you already own a van, we can receive it up to one month prior to your scheduled build start date. You’re welcome to personally deliver the van or have it shipped to our Reno, NV facility. We’re happy to coordinate shipping if needed or your dealership can arrange direct delivery to our shop.

    For travel convenience, Reno-Tahoe International Airport is located just 10 minutes from our facility, and we can assist with transportation upon arrival.

  • During the downtime before your build begins, we’ll stay in touch via email and phone to answer questions and provide guidance on your design. Before it’s time to finalize, you’ll receive a Finish Options Guide where you can select the colors and materials for your van. All upgrades and finishes must be confirmed at least 30 days prior to your build start date.

  • Once the design phase of your van is complete, we will send you with a Build Agreement for signature via Docusign. This agreement outlines our responsibilities as the builder, your responsibilities as the customer, the selected floor plan and options, and the total project cost.

    For cash payments, the schedule is divided into three installments:

    • 25% due three weeks before your build slot date

    • 50% due on the first day of your build

    • 25% due upon delivery

    We also offer financing options. You can find more details on our Financing page located on our website header.

  • We start your build on your scheduled build start date! Our builds typically take 6-8 weeks depending on the complexity and options selected for your build.

  • Your van is complete and ready for pick-up! We ask that all pick-ups take place at our shop in Reno, NV, where we’ll guide you through a detailed two-hour orientation. During this session, we’ll walk you through each system in your van to ensure you’re comfortable with proper use and operation.

    Our location is just 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe, 2.5 hours from Yosemite National Park, and 4 hours from the California coast. Perfect for starting your first adventure right after pick-up!

    If you’d prefer to have your van shipped to your home state, we can help arrange transport as well.