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The Van Build Process

A custom van build isn’t something you wing. There’s a process that keeps the project on track, on budget, and results in a rig you’re actually happy with. Here’s how it works at Emery Custom Builds.

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The 5 Steps

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Step 1: Consultation & Discovery

Tell us about your van, your plans, and your budget. We’ll talk through options and give you a realistic picture of what’s possible. This is a conversation, not a sales pitch. We want to understand how you’ll use the van — weekend trips? Full-time living? Overlanding? Work van with a bed? The use case drives the design. What happens:
  • You tell us about your van (or we help you figure out which platform to buy)
  • We discuss your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and budget range
  • We talk through what’s realistic and where to spend vs. save
  • You walk away with a clear picture of what your build could look like
Schedule a free consultation →

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Step 2: Design, Quoting & Planning

We put together a detailed build plan and quote broken down by system — no surprises, no hidden fees. You approve everything before we start. What happens:
  • We create a detailed build plan based on your consultation
  • You receive an itemized quote broken down by system (electrical, plumbing, interior, exterior)
  • We go through it together so you understand every line item
  • You sign off on the scope and pricing before any work begins
The quote is the contract. What’s on the quote is what gets built, at the price listed. If scope changes mid-build (it happens), we handle it with a written change order before doing the work.

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Step 3: Building

Once approved, your van goes into our Costa Mesa shop. We keep you updated throughout the build with photos and progress check-ins. What happens:
  • Your van moves into the shop on the scheduled date
  • We build system by system — typically starting with insulation and electrical, then plumbing, then interior buildout
  • You get regular photo updates so you can see progress
  • If we hit anything unexpected (rust, wiring issues in the van, etc.), we let you know and discuss options before proceeding
Build duration depends on the tier — see Timeline Guide for details.

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Step 4: Systems Testing & Quality Check

Before handoff, we test every system — electrical, plumbing, appliances, ventilation, and fit & finish. Nothing leaves the shop without passing. What happens:
  • Full electrical system test — voltage, amperage, charging from all sources (solar, alternator, shore power)
  • Plumbing pressure test and leak check
  • Every appliance and fixture is tested for proper operation
  • Fit and finish inspection — doors, drawers, latches, trim
  • Any issues found get fixed before handoff

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Step 5: Walkthrough & Handoff

We walk you through every system, answer your questions, and hand you the keys to your new adventure rig. What happens:
  • Full walkthrough of every system in the van — how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot
  • We show you where everything is: fuses, valves, disconnect switches, fill ports
  • You ask every question you have (there are no dumb questions)
  • You drive away with a fully tested, ready-to-use van

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Payment Structure

MilestoneAmount
Deposit (to book your build slot)$6,000 flat
Build commencement50% of contract value
Halfway point20% of contract value
Completion/handoffRemaining balance
The deposit secures your spot in our build schedule. The full contract (with final scope and pricing) is signed at the 50% commencement payment. The deposit is credited toward the total.

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Next Steps