FAQ

Answers to common Sandy Vans questions: custom Sprinter van builds, rentals, the Boost Box, roof racks, bug screens, insulation kits, and shipping. San Diego, CA.

FAQ

Answers to the questions we hear most about Sandy Vans custom Sprinter van builds, van products, rentals, and in-shop services. Based in San Diego, CA.

General

What does Sandy Vans do?

Sandy Vans designs and builds custom luxury adventure vans on Mercedes Sprinters, right here in San Diego. Explore our custom van builds and layouts, browse our exterior van accessories and interior upgrades, or check out our installation and conversion services. Looking to test the lifestyle first? Contact us about van rentals.

Where is Sandy Vans located?

We're based in sunny San Diego, CA. Our showroom and HQ are located at 9393 Trade Pl, San Diego, CA 92126. Learn more on our About Us page, or get directions and contact info.

Van Builds

Do you offer custom van builds?

Yes! We specialize in custom Mercedes Sprinter van conversions. Choose from one of our proven layouts (Social, Scout, Sport, or Captain's Quarters) or work with our team to design a van tailored to your lifestyle. Visit our Build page to compare layouts and start a consultation.

How long does a van build take?

Build timelines vary based on scope and complexity. On average, a full build takes 4-8 weeks once we begin fabrication. See our Build page for our process and current timelines.

What kind of vans do you build on?

We only work with Mercedes Sprinter vans (144" and 170" wheelbase). Many of our exterior and interior products are universal and fit other Sprinter-based rigs too.

Do you offer financing for van builds?

Yes, we're happy to connect you with third-party financing partners. Contact us for more info, or start the conversation on our Build page.

Can I bring my own van for you to convert?

Yes! Our in-shop services team offers conversion, upgrade, and repair work for customer-supplied Sprinter vans. Contact us to schedule a consultation.

Rentals

Can I rent a van before I buy one?

Definitely. We offer a rental fleet of fully outfitted adventure vans via Outdoorsy. It's a great way to test the Sandy Vans experience before committing to a custom build. Contact us for current availability.

Where do I pick up the rental van?

Pickups and drop-offs are done at our HQ in San Diego (see our Contact page for directions). Delivery may be available upon request for an additional fee.

What's included in a rental van?

Our vans come fully stocked with essentials: bedding, cookware, camp chairs, and more. Each Outdoorsy listing includes a full breakdown. Questions before you book? Contact us.

Events & Tours

Can I see a van in person?

Yes! Schedule a visit at our San Diego showroom or catch us on the road at van expos and shows. Check our Tour Schedule to see where we're headed next.

Do you host any vanlife events?

We do! From Baja adventure trips to weekend meetups, we love gathering with the van community. Follow us on Instagram, check our Tour Schedule, or subscribe to our newsletter.

Bug Screens

Do your bug screens zip all the way off so I don't need to keep them rolled up when not in use?

Our rear door bug screen and slider door bug screen have zippers on both sides so they roll up and secure with buckles. They do not have a zipper across the top, so they can't be fully removed unless uninstalled.

Is there a zipper across the top so the whole screen setup can be removed when not needed?

No, the screens roll up and buckle in place, but they do not zip off entirely across the top. Browse the full Bug Screens & Window Covers collection for all options.

Do the slider door bug screens fit Ram ProMasters?

No, our slider door bug screen is currently only available for Mercedes Sprinter vans.

Will the bug screens fit a 2003 Sprinter high roof?

Our bug screens are designed for Mercedes Sprinter high roof vans from 2007 and newer.

Does this work with a 2025 Sprinter?

Yes, but if you have the electric sliding door it may require slight modifications for the new locking system. Our install team can help if needed.

Boost Box

Can I install the Boost Box on NCV3 Sprinter (2009-2018) without a rear rack?

Rear racks are only available for 2019+ Sprinters. However, if your van can fit a universal rear rack, you can still mount The Boost Box. Installation is available as an add-on—contact us for details.

Can I install more than one shelf inside the Boost Box?

Yes, you can install multiple shelves by adding extra lips inside to support them. See The Boost Box for shelf configurations, or check out the Boost Box Mini for a smaller footprint.

Will the Boost Box fit on a Mollie rack (Black River rack on a 2022 Tiffin Cahaba)?

Yes, The Boost Box can mount onto that rack and any other universal rear rack.

Can the Boost Box mount on either the port or starboard rack?

Yes, The Boost Box can go on either our SV Port Rack or SV Starboard Rack. Need room for skis or boards? Add the Boost Box Ski Insert.

Roof Rack, Ladder & Rear Racks

Do you make a starboard rack for Ram ProMasters?

No, our SV Starboard Rack and other racks are currently only made for 2019+ Mercedes Sprinters.

The port rack says 100 lb limit, but I weigh 195 lbs. Can I climb on it?

It is not recommended to climb on the SV Port Rack. Our SV Side Ladder is a better option for roof access.

Do you have any rear mounts for Ford Transit vans?

No, our rear racks (Starboard and Port) are only available for Mercedes Sprinters.

Does the SV Roof Rack include all mounting hardware?

Yes, the SV Sandbar Roof Rack comes with all necessary screws, bolts, and washers. Pair it with our Roof Rack Decking Panels or Side Ladder, or browse the full Racks, Steps & Bumpers collection.

Other Products & Shipping

Do you sell the RTX2000 mounting plate separately from the interior trim ring?

The mounting plate and interior trim ring aren't sold apart from each other, but they come together as the Dometic RTX Trim Kit, which you can buy on its own (separate from the AC unit).

What's the shipping time for products?

Typically, shipping takes 5-7 business days. Have a question about your order? Contact our team.

Any discounts on shipping?

Shipping is free on all Sandy Vans (SV) fulfilled products. We don't run separate shipping-discount promos, but you can sign up for our newsletter for a product discount. Reach out with any questions.

What's included in the Havelock Wool insulation kit?

The Havelock Wool Van Insulation Kit includes 100 sq ft of wool insulation. R-value is 3.6 per inch for batts and 4.3 per inch for blown-in wool. Browse the full Insulation & Sound Deadening collection.

What does "SV 1 COVER" mean—did I only order one window cover?

The front cab window covers come as a set of two, one for each front window. See our full Sprinter Van Insulated Window Covers lineup for rear and sliding door options.

Support & Contact

How can I contact the Sandy Vans team?

You can reach us via our Contact page, email contact@sandyvans.com, or call (619) 812-1903. Want to learn more about our team first? Visit our About Us page.