Custom Van Conversion vs Pre-Manufactured RV: What to Choose?

Full disclosure: Since I co-own a custom van conversion company, I tend to believe building a custom van is the best option. There’s no right or wrong answer to the question, but there are certainly pros and cons. Let’s go over them together, then you decide.

The van model itself isn’t a factor. What you should consider is: 

1. Price 

2. Timeline

3. Quality

4. Certifications. 

5. AND MOST IMPORTANT: Level of customization, in design, functionality, and layout. 

   
   

Price

Let’s start here. 

Overall, pre-manufactured conversions should be cheaper than custom builds. And if your budget is limited, it might be your choice.

But beware: if you see price tags for so-called “high-end pre-manufactured models” that are close to the price as high-end custom conversions – such as which Drifter Van makes – you should be asking questions.

Like why would the prices so high for something built in a series? 

And why spend that much money if you still have to compromise on what you’re getting?

Timeline

If you’re in a hurry and want to start traveling soon, then buying a van from an RV dealership is indeed faster than building a custom one. 

With a custom conversion, one made exclusively for you, the process can take a bit of time: to source the van, design the layout, choose your personal features, and build it. Realistically, this will take no less than 3–4 months, possibly longer depending on the builder’s backlog.

But as they say, quality takes time.

Quality

Speaking of quality, this depends largely on the company you choose.

Not all pre-manufactured RVs are low in quality; some brands do a fine job. Likewise, not every custom conversion is top-shelf: some are not only poor quality but actually dangerous.

Still, the overall quality of custom builds is higher – but only if you work with a serious company.

Driftervans believes in and practices only the highest quality design, something that works ideally for you, the client. 

RVIA Certification

RVIA certification is a bit complicated, but here’s a quick summary:

RVIA means your build meets certain safety standards, and that the builder is a member of the RVIA (yes, you become certified by joining the club, not just by building amazing vans).

I’ve seen RVIA certified conversions with good quality and some with terrible quality. So that little sticker? Take it with a grain of salt. 

On the other hand, I’ve seen non-certified conversions that should have had better inspections, and still others built to a much higher standard than RVIA requires.

At Driftervans, for example, our standards are often higher than RIVA’s, which is mostly intended for pre-manufactured vans with little customization. The truth is, RIVA’s standardization often doesn’t offer enough flexibility for high end or luxury design.

Some campgrounds might ask for RVIA certification, but personally, I’ve never heard of a client being turned away because of it.

Financing

It’s usually easier to get RV financing for RVIA certified, pre-manufactured vans. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible with custom builds. If you work with a serious custom builder and not just a DIYer, financing is still possible.

At Drifter Vans, we work with several financing companies that offer loans for the full package, or just the build if you already own your van.

Customization

Here’s the real reason why I believe in custom conversions, and when I say “custom,” I don’t mean choosing between two wall colors and calling it a day.

At Drifter Vans, we build an entire van that’s designed exclusively you. Your needs. Your tastes. Your elements. No two vans we build are the same. You tell us what you like, what you need, how you plan to use your van, and we make it happen. 

You don’t have to choose from existing layouts. We can adapt one of our signature layouts to your size, lifestyle, or needs. 

If you have the time, the budget, and if you hate to compromise, why buy a model that’s sitting on a lot, the same as thousands of others? At Drifter Vans, we create a van that’s unique to you, and feels like home.

Features That Fit You

Features matter.

At Drifter Vans for example, we don’t just ask if you want an air conditioner or a pull-out garage. We ask: what will you do with your van?

If you plan to boondock, you might need a larger battery system to power the A/C.

If you’re working remotely, maybe 5G isn’t enough, maybe a fixed satellite system is better or maybe a mobile one, what about both?

At Drifter Vans, whatever your situation is, we figure it out together. And if it’s doable, we’ll make it happen. 

Conclusion

To sum it all up, if you’re in a rush, have a smaller budget, and don’t need anything specific, there’s nothing wrong with buying a pre-manufactured van.

But if you have the time… if you want your van to feel like a real home… if you want it to match your needs, and not someone else’s idea of van life...

Then don’t compromise.

Go with a real custom builder. We suggest you choose Drifter Vans. But whatever your choice, living on the road, whether full-time or weekends, is an experience you’ll never forget!