A Reading self-build may need to keep the van useful for daily journeys as well as camping. This guide compares the compact SWB and LWB layouts by their working envelope, including the space around seats and the route through the side door.
888CamperWorks furniture for self-build conversions. Order online from our Rochester, Kent business. The featured kits are supplied flat packed for assembly and vehicle fitting.
Furniture layouts to compare
Use the current product drawings and pack contents alongside this guide. Compare the sleeping footprint, usable storage and space needed to open doors before choosing your finish.
Compact SWB bed and storage kit
U-shaped seating 1400 × 1700 mm, extending to a 1900 mm-long bed. Check the required 1420 mm interior clearance, bulkhead removal and cab-seat movement on the product page.
Compact LWB bed and storage kit
U-shaped seating, cupboard storage and a 1400 × 2000 mm bed footprint. Allow the full 2000 mm length and at least 1420 mm finished interior width.
Browse all U-shaped conversion kits, or compare separate kitchens and cupboards and overhead storage. Product images are renders; the listings show current options and prices.
Measure a day van before choosing its bed kit
Measure at furniture height
Record the clear width through the full height of the proposed benches, not just along the bare floor. Wall lining and trim can narrow the body higher up. The compact kits require at least 1420 mm of finished interior clearance even though their nominal furniture width is 1400 mm. Add the wheel-arch positions to the same drawing.
Try the driving-to-sleeping transition
The compact SWB bed extends beyond its seating footprint and needs the bulkhead removed and cab seats moved forward. Check your actual vehicle before relying on that arrangement. The LWB layout keeps a 2000 mm bed footprint, so verify that length at furniture height with doors shut. Neither wheelbase label alone establishes compatibility.
Prepare your Reading conversion enquiry
Send the van make, model, year, wheelbase and roof height, the kit you are considering and your finished measurements. Include:
- Finished width at floor and seat height
- Wheel-arch positions and lining thickness
- Cab-seat and bulkhead constraints
State the receiving postcode and whether any floor, lining or equipment measurements are still provisional. Use the contact form, call 0330 043 2427 or email contact@888VanRacking.co.uk.
Delivery and Medway collection
For delivery to Reading, enter your full postcode at checkout and check the service for the selected kit. Provide access details for a home or workshop delivery and leave time to inspect and assemble the furniture before your first trip.
The featured conversion-kit listings offer £80 pallet delivery where that service is available, or free Medway collection by arrangement. Confirm service and price for Highland, island or restricted-access addresses. Rates for other furniture depend on the item and address. Check the shipping policy and your checkout options, or ask us to confirm delivery and lead time.
Before choosing your kit
Is a van model name enough to choose SWB or LWB furniture?
No. Generations, bulkheads, seats and lining differ. Use the product drawings with your finished measurements and send a sketch if a clearance is uncertain.
What work and equipment should I plan separately?
These are furniture kits. Check the chosen listing for assembly hardware and optional catches or fitting packs. Appliances, cushions, mattress and table support are separate on the featured kits. Confirm your vehicle fit and structural mounting arrangements. Use the lounge and bed while parked; they are not travelling passenger seats.