Van Build Timelines
One of the most common questions after “how much?” is “how long?” Here’s what to expect.Timeline by Build Tier
| Tier | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic | 6–8 weeks |
| Standard | 8–12 weeks |
| Premium | 12–16+ weeks |
What Affects the Timeline
Build Complexity
A Basic build with a bed platform, simple electrical, and a kitchen sink is straightforward. A Premium build with a full bathroom, custom cabinetry, large solar array, and premium finishes has significantly more systems to install, test, and refine.Parts Availability
Most components are in stock or ship within a week. But specialty items — custom cushions, specific appliances, imported hardware — can take 2–4 weeks to arrive. We order long-lead items as early as possible to avoid delays.Scope Changes
Mid-build changes happen. Maybe you decide to add a shower, upgrade your battery bank, or change your countertop material. We handle it, but each change adds time. Changes are documented with a written change order before we proceed.Van Condition
If your van arrives with rust, previous water damage, or wiring issues, we address those before starting the conversion. This can add time, but it’s important — you don’t want to build on top of problems.Season
Our Costa Mesa shop stays busy year-round (Southern California weather is good for vanlife), but spring and summer tend to be our busiest seasons as people prep for summer travel. Booking earlier gives you more flexibility on timing.Typical Build Sequence
Here’s roughly how a Standard-tier build progresses:| Phase | Duration | What’s Happening |
|---|---|---|
| Prep & stripping | 2–3 days | Remove factory panels, clean, inspect |
| Insulation | 2–3 days | Thinsulate walls/ceiling, XPS floor |
| Electrical rough-in | 3–5 days | Wire runs, battery mounting, solar, fuse panel |
| Plumbing rough-in | 2–3 days | Tank mounting, pump install, line runs |
| Subfloor & flooring | 2–3 days | Subfloor, vapor-free underlayment, vinyl plank or similar |
| Wall panels | 3–5 days | Ceiling and wall panel installation |
| Cabinetry | 5–10 days | Kitchen, storage, bed platform, overhead cabinets |
| Electrical finish | 3–5 days | Fixtures, outlets, switches, inverter, monitoring |
| Plumbing finish | 2–3 days | Faucet, shower, water heater hookup, drain connections |
| Exterior | 2–4 days | Solar panel mounting, roof fan, rack, awning |
| Systems testing | 2–3 days | Full test of electrical, plumbing, appliances |
| Punch list & detail | 2–3 days | Trim, touch-ups, final adjustments |
Booking & Scheduling
The process looks like this:- Consultation — We discuss your build (no charge, no commitment)
- Quote & approval — You receive a detailed quote; we go through it together
- Deposit — $6,000 flat deposit secures your build slot
- Build start — Your van comes to the shop on the scheduled date
- Build commencement payment — 50% of contract value at build start
Setting Realistic Expectations
- We’d rather take an extra week and get it right than rush and cut corners. Quality takes time.
- Communication is constant. You’ll get photo updates and check-ins throughout the build. You’ll never wonder what’s happening with your van.
- Delays happen. A backordered part, an unexpected rust repair, or a design change can push the timeline. We’ll let you know and adjust together.
Next Steps
- Budgeting Guide — Understand the cost side
- Build Process Overview — The full 5-step process
- Book a consultation →