41 North Custom Vans

MY STORY

My name is Tom - founder and builder of 41 North Custom Vans in Warwick, Rhode Island. Following more than a decade long career in the marine industry, I started officially converting vans as a business in 2017. However, my history with vanlife started long before that… before it was even called #vanlife actually. Back in 1999, shortly after graduating high school, one of my best friends and I decided to convert a van and use it to travel around the country. It was a $500 1980-something Ford E150 with nearly bald tires and plenty of rust. Inside we built a crude set of bunk beds and cabinets, tossed in a cooler and camping stove and hit the road. We lived in that van for four months surfing all up and down the east and west coasts of the US. It was an unforgettable experience. While at the time it was really only intended to be a way to escape the New England winter, it was that trip that sparked what would ultimately become a lifelong love of camper vans and travel in general. Since that trip I have enjoyed countless adventures throughout the US and other countries utilizing all different types of vehicles.

Fast forward to the present…while my van builds have become significantly more refined since that rusty old E150, my passion for camper vans and the freedom of adventure they provide has never changed. I can honestly say without a doubt, they are my favorite way to travel and I am truly thrilled that I get to share that joy and excitement with others for a living.

WE ALL HAVE QUESTIONS. THESE ARE A FEW OF THE MOST COMMON.

Please reach us at if you cannot find an answer to your question.

How long will it take to build my new van?

Build time is going to depend on the complexity of the design as well as availability of chosen materials. However, a good place to start is to expect between 3-6 months for a complete build, with most taking around 4.

How much does it cost to build out a van?

Cost can vary greatly. It will depend entirely on the complexity of the design and the materials chosen. That is why the planning stages are so important.

What makes of vans do you convert?

While the majority of our focus has been on Sprinters, ProMasters and Transits, we are happy to discuss converting whatever vehicle you have in mind.

Do you sell prebuilt vans?

Yes we do. From time to time we have vans for sale that we have already customized. In that case they will be listed on the site.

A CUSTOM VAN IN 5 SIMPLE STEPS

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First you will answer a few questions so I can get a sense of what you are looking for in a van.

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We will then coordinate a time to discuss your needs in more detail so that I can come up with a preliminary design idea and a rough quote.

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After you have reviewed the preliminary designs, we will discuss any changes you might want to make so that I can determine a more accurate cost and timeline.

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The next step will be to put down a deposit to secure a spot in the schedule. Throughout the build process I will be sure to send you regular updates and photos because let's face it... you're going to be excited!

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Once completed, you will pay the remaining balance and take delivery of your brand new custom camper van!