Many companies first decide on the make, model, and supplier – and only later, as the delivery date approaches, check whether the vehicle is actually suitable for the intended conversion. (Photo: © photoschmidt/123RF.com)
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June 2026
Service vehicles are mobile workshops, material depots, and operational resources all in one. Their conversions and modifications often cost as much as the bare chassis. Functionality and cost-effectiveness must be balanced.
A van can be ordered quickly. But that doesn't make it productive by any means. The equipment is crucial: shelving systems, tool holders, power supply, lighting, load securing; often, special solutions are needed for measuring instruments, spare parts, or auxiliary materials.
Everything has to fit perfectly – including the vehicle wrap for visibility and recognition of the technical service provider in the market and at the work site. However, professional planning and execution aren't always successful. Many companies first decide on the make, model, and supplier – and only later, as the delivery date approaches, check whether the vehicle is actually suitable for the intended conversion.
Weight, payload, electrical installations, load securing, and approval are crucial details. "If such points are only clarified during the equipment selection process, the entire procedure grinds to a halt. This can lead to rework, delays, or compromises before the vehicle can finally be put into service," he said. Majk Strika, Managing Director of the fleet manager and leasing company specializing in commercial fleets holman.
Because when a mobile workstation breaks down, the company suffers financial losses. For example, the lost revenue for a two-technician team can quickly amount to €1.800 per day. The process can be particularly disrupted if the chassis and interior fittings are commissioned separately without all technical interfaces having been clarified beforehand.
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Operations management
Furthermore, the various interests of the stakeholders clash, as Strika knows: "Manufacturers are pushing for series production solutions, equipment suppliers are calculating tightly, and the customer is looking for the lowest price. Everything has its place." For example, when buying vans, discounts in the double-digit percentage range can currently be achieved across segments (May 2026), even with technically comparable vehicle alternatives from different manufacturers.
Even when it comes to installations and expansions, there are significant differences between suppliers, concepts, configurations – and prices. Brand or supplier loyalty doesn't necessarily pay off. Market awareness and purchasing acumen, on the other hand, are crucial. This is especially true when terms can be negotiated based on quantity. However, many companies lack the know-how or capacity for professional, coordinated management of planning, procurement, and on-time equipment delivery.
One option is to collaborate with an external specialist who covers conception, procurement, and implementation equally. An example of this is the EGB Group, a specialist in temporary construction power and equipment. Their service vehicles serve as mobile workstations, storage for essential equipment, and simultaneously as self-sufficient power sources. The first step involved developing a set of criteria for functionality, particularly regarding secure storage, power supply, and lighting, as well as adhering to the corporate design requirements for the vehicle wrap.
Based on this, the vehicle configuration was developed. Step two was translating this profile into clear work and coordination processes. "We opted for an external partner who, under the label Fleet Supply Chain, not only supplies vehicles but offers a comprehensive solution for planning, procurement, conversion, vehicle branding, logistics, and delivery from a single source," says [name/title]. Jens Friedrich, Rental fleet manager of the EGB Group.
Seemingly inexpensive, off-the-shelf solutions usually fail to meet actual requirements. Modifications that later prove necessary incur additional costs, consume time, and delay productive use. "However, it is possible to cover various applications with one vehicle. This requires industry experience and extensive practical knowledge – such models aren't available in a showroom," says Strika.
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