Thanks for all the tips Mel. I have watched you videos for the last 1.5 years and now it's time for me to start my sprinter conversion. Thank you again for all the useful tips 👍

@BigVanSmallWorld

2 жыл бұрын

That’s really kind of you to say good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

Hi Mell, a friend of mine had a problem with this issue when converting a bus into a camper, a key sticker that made a difference was 'auto-sleeper'. He simply placed one on each side & the back then he was good to go.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s really appreciated 👍🤓👍

When I get round to doing mine I’m really tempted to get a full length transfer saying “I’m a F@&king Campervan” plastered down both sides of the van. Wonder if that’s will tick their dumbass regulation box for them 🙃 💙

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Haha brilliant 👍🤓👍

@ashy1423

4 жыл бұрын

I’d love to see that picture and the results, please send it to Mel so we can all have a good laugh at DVLA’s expense. Ash.

@petei5312

4 жыл бұрын

@@ashy1423 If your camper gets stolen you want the police looking for a camper.

Hi Mel. I've just finished my van conversion too and just about to post my details to the DVLA. Will keep you posted to see how I get on. I'm a wee bit apprehensive after looking through these comments though. Cheers

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Good luck and please do let me know how things go for you 🤓👍

@truckman4175

4 жыл бұрын

Good luck with the DVLA they doing nothing with v5s at the moment they had mine over two months still haven’t heard anything

Good morning Mell.....thanks,have a nice 👍😊...

@BigVanSmallWorld

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you and good luck 👍🤓👍

I convert campers for a living Mel, I use wheelchair access vehicles.. the last 3 have originally been classified as MPV on the V5 the DVLA refused to change them to motor caravan.. and even tried sending the first on back as Van with windows. After lengthy conversations with a really nice fella at the DVLA they agreed to change it back to MPV.. I’ve given up trying now

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s really interesting 👍🤓👍

@thechumpsbeendumped.7797

4 жыл бұрын

How does the MPV status effect insurance and speed limits? Oh! And by the way, I thought you ought to know, there’s some people looking for you. 😉

I'm sooooo glad the requirements to have your panel registered as a campervan in my country are super simple. All it needs is a bed, sitting area, fixed table, water (can be by gravity), sink and 2 cabinets which can be locked. I put this together in 1 day for 100€ drove down to the station, the guy had a look at the interior, we had a nice chat, he checked the boxes, gave me the paperwork, at the front I payed 50€ for it and they filled it as a campervan. Easypeasy. Over here when filled as a campervan it saves a lot of money in road taxes as well as in insurance costs. After the registration I took this interior out and started the real conversion.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Where are you I’m moving 😂🤓👍

Thankyou - Top man very helpful 👍👍👍👍

@BigVanSmallWorld

11 ай бұрын

No problem 👍

I do like your confidence 👍 (I think) 😂. Seriously I hope all goes well with your van with windows, sorry I mean campervan. Stay safe 🚐☕️☕️👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🌈🙏💙❤️💙❤️

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Haha 😂 Thank you 👍🤓👍

Hi just brought a Transit bus and here in Aussie once I remove the 6 seats, get a weigh bridge ticket because if it's lighter I pay less rego pay to get it Certified, all up $515, it's then a goods van. Cheaper in the long run but $515 for a bloke to walk out see it doesn't have the seats and give you a certificate. love the vlogs keep them coming

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s really interesting thank you 👍🤓👍

Great information

Brilliant again mel

@BigVanSmallWorld

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks again 👍😊👍

Very helpful! Thanks

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you you’re absolutely welcome 👍🤓👍

Waiting with baited breath! Good Luck, Mel!

Hi, great video. Can you still drive converted on a B1 license?

Evening Mel,, good luck am sure dvla has been watching all ur hard work just like us,,, send them all ur vids 😂,,,

Some info Mel that might help, I’m not registering my panel van as campervan but I did still manage to insure it as a campervan at a reasonable cost of £280 with value of van at £25k. Good luck mate.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s good thank you 😊

@Namdor2012

4 жыл бұрын

Well there is the answer, saves all the drama..Is that £280 yearly ? How much more is the cost yearly if not registered as a van? Mel wants the extra highway speed though👀

@grf1426

4 жыл бұрын

Be careful. If you ever have to make a claim the insurance company may try to weasel out of it on the basis that your said it was a camper but it's not registered as such. They do that all the time - take your money and argue about it if you ever make a claim.

@MrFergusferret

4 жыл бұрын

@@grf1426 very good point!!!!

Great job done on the van Mel.. very impressive mate..

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 🤓👍

Stand by for V5 with van with side windows, hope you are successful, they seem to be cutting down lately from what i have read.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Time will tell 👍🤓👍

Your have no issues Mel. 💙💙💛💛💙💙👌

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Fingers crossed 🤞

Another good reason for changing to campervan is that CalMac ferries in Scotland will charge based on the classification identified through the reg no on some routes. My "van with windows" was quoted rate for a commercial vehicle. £130 instead of £40 for a motor home. I'm off to look for some cliche campervan stickers (stick on, peel off type 😉).

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Oh yes I’ve heard it’s cheaper on ferry too 👍🤓🤞

I finally got my answer !!! :) Thank you Mel !!!

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s brilliant 👍🤓👍

It's ok for you have a high roof they don't recognise poptops, we can't register as a campervan.

Just converted an Ice cream van, it's Cool, wonder if I change the stickers from MR Snowy, to MR Sleepy, If they'll Accept that !

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Oh mate that brilliant 🤓👍

Hi Mel, I think that the reason why people are getting angry at the DVLA is that your van now has to be a high top. No more pop-up roof campers. As I am sure you know there is a whole industry built on the pop-top type van. What's going to happen to the conversion people's jobs. A friend of mine converted a Vivaro last year at some personal expense, pop-top was probably the most expensive thing, and now he can't re-register it as a camper...not a happy bunny!! Fortunately for me I chose the high top and will be applying for the change kinda depending on how you get on. Good luck 🤞

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you and good luck with your build the pop top is a joke

nice one fella ever the optirmist

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

Hope it goes well Mel "But" the reason they give for adding windows is to let more light into the living area. So it's all down to what they think regardless of ticking all the boxes.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you fingers crossed 🤞

You can do it Mel👍Best of luck!

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

I'll keep my fingers crossed... O, wait... How am I supposed to make curtains these weeks? 😁 I'm sure you'll get your approval with such a beautiful van. Still remember how you got there, something old, something new, something borrowed something.... I bet the guys of the DVLA have been following you for quite a while now, they will send you the message by return.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s really appreciated always nice to get a positive message 👍🤓👍

Good luck Mel. I'm glad I did mine before all that kerfuffle. Camper insurance also covers all your belongings inside the van.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s rite that’s why I want it done rite 👍🤓👍

I'm on a few facebook self build campervan pages Mel and i'd say judging by others rejections you'll get the old van with windows letter this time,even conversions with vents and awnings are getting refused,with your go faster stripes sadly it's closer to a race van.Like you say though,keep trying.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s really encouraging 😂🤓👍

@davebron4888

4 жыл бұрын

Sorry Mel just what i've seen from others who have tried,dvla won't even give specific reasons why they refused the application.good luck.

DVLA have had my v5 with all pictures for 6 weeks and counting so far. Hope you aint in a rush!

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Oh crap that’s a long time thanks for letting me know 👍😬👍

Far out Mel , I thought the RTA was bad here in Australia ,,, WELL THEY ARE ! Here you need a ENGINEERS CERTIFICATE and a Start Rego Inspection called a BLUE SLIP , the regs are crazy as hell ! , Man your Van looks like a camper to me ,, I asked my wife Lauren ,, She said its a CAMPER so just tell the DVLA Lauren said so ,,, Cheers buddy RJT In Australia ,,,,,,, waiting for a new LEFT KNEE , ( 7th July )

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Oh my goodness me good luck 👍🤓👍

Hi Mel very new to your channel and enjoyed this video about the DVLA. One question about the outside part. Do you have to have a fixed awning on the van. I ask as we will when finished have an awning that you can set up and then if at a site be able to drive off and leave it set up. I look forward to your reply. I look forward to watching more of your videos. Gary

@BigVanSmallWorld

10 күн бұрын

Hi Gary thank for your positive feedback really appreciated as far as the awning goes yes you need on on the van for sure 👍

I wouldn't worry about the extra 10mph, when I had my Fiat Ducato CV, I found that travelling at 58mph upped the mpg massively, why the rush, just relax and chill :) good luck with the registration, I'm not hopeful though, the government seems hell bent on screwing everyone over! Stupid you can't have a pop top, seems the UK is against motorhome life, nowhere to fill up with water, empty grey water and toilets, Europe is do much more accommodating, I remember Greg virgoes first trip over in France, he had some great dpots with all the amenities to hand!

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

Could also use double sided tape to put on some extra plastic fittings (Shore power, gas bottle hatch, extra vents, even a long plastic pipe as a fake awning etc) on the outside for the pics, to really make it look like a non boondocking unit..😉 No law against removing outside fittings...

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Haha I like it 👍🤓👍🍺

@Namdor2012

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld Us Aussie's are a canny bunch👀 We are good at bending rules even our cricketers can't help themselves😁

@borntraveller007

4 жыл бұрын

Also photos on a campsite, plugged in and awning out Plus put in a note saying next lot of pics you have to send in you'll be wearing your Budgie smugglers on a sun lounger!! that might get it passed 1st time 🤣

@Namdor2012

4 жыл бұрын

@@borntraveller007 Mel in a thong with an esky would be a nice touch😂

I think they are trying to remove the stealth aspect of white vans. Just paint words camper van, with water based poster paints, then take pictures. Then let the rain wash them off.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Sounds like a great idea 😂🤓👍

@jonathanhayward1276

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld can get a sticker to go on your van with "I love the DVLA" and also in Welsh.

@WereReallyRelayCamping

4 жыл бұрын

in the small print it says "You must provide clear evidence that the vehicle you have converted will permanently be a ‘motor caravan’ and it meets the requirements for the internal and external features." ... "Permanently".... change how it looks or in any way make it not fit to pass/conform to the specs, and it reverts to panel van etc, ..... I mean you dont have to tell them, but if it ever became an issue say theft or accident, then you could find they dont consider it to be one, and then thats an insurance company can of worms too as they could say as you insured a campervan, and dvla no longer consider itone, then your insurance is invalid. lets face it your suggesting the same as putting good tyres on for the mot then putting the bald ones back on after a pass.....

Thanks mate I was getting a bit worried just know as I'm just starting a van build but feel much better now. Did they change yours to a motor caravan

@BigVanSmallWorld

2 жыл бұрын

I have had interesting dealings with the DVLA I’d say don’t worry about them as long as you let them know what you have done that’s all that matters good luck with your build 👍

Good luck Mel ...lookin forward to hearing yr 'good news' then. Oh yeah don't forget, campers get cheaper ferry tickets too!

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Cool thank you that’s good news 👍🤓👍

Mel , when I sent my log book off in January, I was refused campervan status and told me in the letter I recieved the discussion was final and I was unable to argue the disission, good luck mate hope you are successful

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you I’ll definitely argue 👍🤓👍

@peerless67

4 жыл бұрын

Not enough info in the post, what size is the van ?

Hi Mel iv converted my nissan primastar van ti o campervan but my van is not a high top does that make any difference thanks paul

@BigVanSmallWorld

Жыл бұрын

Yes it will

Everyone is complaining because most aren't hi top. You skirted over it but it affects more people than it doesn't.

Good luck getting any paperwork from DVLA since covid . I have been waiting for a log book since March. Told the back log is huge ..

@tonytca9439

4 жыл бұрын

Oh I never thought of that lucky I got my van log book back 3 days before lockdown. I prefer my van as a stealth van as campers are getting a bad reputation at the moment and many councils are banning them from sea fronts and carparks. The insurance is only about £100 a year difference when I last checked.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

@feralfreebirds

4 жыл бұрын

@@tonytca9439 Hi tonytca- do you just insure as a panelvan then for private use ? who do you have for insurance,( my van doesnt have the 2 windows in 1 side & thinking same as you!

@tonytca9439

4 жыл бұрын

@@feralfreebirds If you are converting to any type of camper even a day van you got to let the insurance know as its no longer just a van. If you don't and they find out your insurance will be void. There are a few that allow "Van in conversion" or "Modified Van" and you can basically do anything you like in the back just tell them what you are planning and they will cover you. Adrian Flux gave me the best deal this year as long as the gas is safe and got fire extinguishers etc. When the conversion is finished you can opt to have an agreed valuation to cover your time and materials invested which could easy double the van purchase price.

Hi Mel, thank you for another great video. With the imminent roll out of the Greater Manchester Clean Air charges it got me thinking about the fact they might exempt leisure vehicles in the review. I have a Hymer 522 factory built Motorhome, but my V5 says its a VAN? Nobody seems to speaking about this issue in fact I presume a lot of factory built Motorhome’s are classed as a van. I’m not sure why it was classified like this in the first place. So I’m going to attempt to get mine changed with DVLA. Have you any views or advice please? Regards Fred

@BigVanSmallWorld

2 жыл бұрын

All I can say is good luck buddy 🤞

Good luck Mel ❤️💙❤️💙❤️💙stay safe .... Jamie

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you and you too 👍🤓👍

Good luck Mel, be lucky 😊

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you Kat and you 🤓👍

@katcankan7129

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld 😊, thank you

Good luck Mel, fingers crossed for ya..! 😁🤞

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

my van came back as van with windows, told the insurance they have called it a vannette and insured it at a very reasonable rate.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s interesting 👍🤓👍

Maybe u should include your youtube channel too 🤣. Thats documentation+comedy/entertainment 👍🏼

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Haha yes you could be rite 👍🤓👍

Mel go to local camper van shop put your plates on a merc camper send photos in job done.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Haha 😂

All rules have changed now . DVLA stopped today . They have removed the campervan classification completely. Caravan with wheels , or van with living. That’s it folks 🤗👍

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Brilliant 👍🤓

WOW..Glad we only have to do it once a year. Here in OZ, register with what is callled a Roadworthy, and thats it unless you sell it..if i keep it for 20 years and register it each year, it doesnt have to have a Roadworth each year...just if sell it, or police pull you over and make you get one..lol

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s fantastic what state are you in

@moystonadv3651

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld Victoria, just gone to stage 4 lockdown..crap place to be at the moment!..lol

only thing is i had bought my van a SWB because that's all i needed ( solo ) and started work on it , windows , cooker ,bed size , water storage , table all to there requirements even had decals done when they moved the goal posts, doesn't matter what i do now i'll fail because it has to be a hightop and i'm only a H1 make no difference that a H1 Relay is already higher than a H2 transit or Traffic it's still a H1 . so Van with Windows.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s so frustrating I’m sorry to hear good luck with your build 👍

@TheAndrew363

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld that's alright Mel I finished the build , use it for what i built it for just 10 mph slower, more time to take in the sights hey .

@sharononeill8729

4 жыл бұрын

I have a dispatch for solo travel, kitchen ,bed ,toilet,everything that a big van has...it's classed as a modified van.

Hi Mel Great vid . Looking good well done . Robbie U K

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

I was lucky I registered my van/camper van before they changed all the rules, the one thing I found was the insurance halved once it was classed as a motorhome, (£600 down to £300 including breakdown service) the insurance asked for photos so I sent the same ones that I sent to the DVLA .

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That was lucky 👍🤓👍

I’ve got a Transit with a Semi High Roof. Is that going to snooker me for reclassification?

@BigVanSmallWorld

2 жыл бұрын

I don’t think that would be a problem the big problem is the DVLA themselves good luck 🤞

@007bondspy

2 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld thanks for your reply, that’s the general vibe I’m getting lol

If you need more stickers just go and find some hot pink flames that can go the whole length of the van LOL.

Good vlogg bud, nice to hear a positive note on this subject for a change 🙏 I'm sure it will fine if not carry on? It is a load of plumbs what they want tho, someone sat in an office I'm sure? 🤔 Anyway keep the good vloggs coming, and I'm sure loads of people can't wait to see what happens 👀

Wish you good luck Mel, ATB Dave

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

Good luck Mel! We're all hoping you get it through! I think part of the issue people have with the new rules is that it stops the stealthier vans from re-registering..

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

I love you camper

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

Does it cost any duty or vat ?? I’m currently about to do my convert

@BigVanSmallWorld

2 жыл бұрын

No it’s cost nothing

I’m in the very early days of planning a conversion to travel Europe and a little worried about getting the V5 changed when its done. I’m spoiled for choice with the variety of vehicles that would make a good base to start with, but what I’d like to know is, is there a vehicle that the DVLA are more likely to change and ones to steer clear of? I briefly considered panel vans and ambulances but as I’m over 6ft I’ve ruled them out as to narrow(van) and to short (ambulance). I’ve seen several companies that put 20ft long Luton boxes on van bodies with a verity of door options at the back. This would give a pretty simple square sided box to build in. Alternatively I’ve seen a few small 20+ seat coaches that take my fancy and also some busses like the Optare Sole 23 seater that also get my imagination racing. Any suggestions please?

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

There’s a list on the DVLA website stating what vans they will and will not except good luck 👍🤓👍

Hi Mel Did you manage to get your van re-registered as a camper van?. Great Channel

Good luck mate

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

If it drives like a camper van and if it looks like a camper van then the DVLA will see it as a camper van and register it as a PSV which is what they did to me first time round. Good luck , send them a link too 😉never know may pick up some more subscribers

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s crazy good you got it sorted 👍🤓👍

Been there, done that, V5 came back still as a panel van with windows, the excuse, that the outside didn't look different than a van, and the police wouldn't be able to recognize it as a camper van (?). Seems to be down to the luck of the draw as to whether the vehicle gets re classified or not. I may try again.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Oh dear that’s not good 😬

Hi, I followed all of the instructions, sent in all of the photos and the tick list and they have still come back and said a panel van with windows. It said the inside matches, but the outside does not. I have graphics on both sides, 2 windows on one side, fitted awning so don;t understand what their issue is. I did ask, but they told me in a letter that they cannot advise what else I need to do. I will follow your advice and resend everything in

@BigVanSmallWorld

9 ай бұрын

Good luck but the way things are going I think you are better off as can with windows 👍

@ronpalmer1371

2 ай бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld Hi, why would he be better off as a van with windows ? I’m asking as my Vivaro camper is still registered as a van, and was going to try registering it as a camper, is there a down side I’m not aware of ? Thanks for any advice 👍🏻

Just found your channel, I'm thinking of buying a minibus, or van. To convert to a camper, what wood do you use on side panels after insulation. To keep it light as possible.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Hi ya Steve I use mostly soft cladding and pine it’s really lightweight and super easy to work with 👍🤓👍

A lot of folk in the UK would appear to be having a hissy fit over the new changes. Well count yourselves lucky! Here in Ireland we have to pay VRT... Vehicle Registration Tax. The figure would appear to be plucked out of thin air.. 13.3% of what is deemed to be the "open market selling price". I had to stump up €1346.00, some folk less and others more.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

OMG 😮 that’s shocking

Seen comments saying DVLA decision is final. This cannot be legal?

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

I’m not having that 🤓👍

@martink9785

4 жыл бұрын

Dvla are the people that register vehicles, deal with driving licenses. Can't me any more legal than that

Hi Mel. There are lots of videos on the subject, but I’ve picked yours to ask what may seem obvious... What are the advantages of changing the vehicle type? Pete.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Crafty Caravanners cheaper insurance cheaper ferry crossing better resale value

@CraftyCampervanners

4 жыл бұрын

Mel’s Van World Thank you Mel. It all makes sense now .. 👍👍👍👍😀😀😀

what is you get campervan but it was registered oversea

@BigVanSmallWorld

27 күн бұрын

I don’t know 🤷‍♂️

Another question - Does it need stickers??

A lot of people are against the stickers aspect to make it look like a camper - what happens if the stickers just fall off one day due to the wind....

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Well I if that’s what happens you just have to put them back on again 😂🤓👍

Hi Mel it took me 10 months and to lost log books and eventually they changed it to a motor caravan on the logbook the only thing I did when they told me that it still looks too much like a minibus I painted in the middle windows and they past as a motor caravan but it did take me 3 attempts and 10 months and it was annoying that it's not simpler I just kept telling me they haven't received the logbook

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

We’ll done for getting it sorted out 👍🤓👍

I think the Auto camper sticker is way forward Mel, hope it works out for yah. 👌🍻

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 🤓👍

@pepy6410

4 жыл бұрын

Doesn't stipulate what language the stickers should be wink wink thanks for the vids mel and keep em coming

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Pepy Ydawake1 brilliant 👍😊👍

Seen a few comments regarding stealth campers & l'm confused: Why on earth would someone *want* to change the log book to 'Motor Caravan' if you're trying to be stealthy? (Also: Not sure why there's different speed limits. Weight restrictions or something?)

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

It’s all about insurance for me

Thing with the rules is the high top section, no help if you want to build a micro camper or a T5 with pop top. My understanding is pop tops are excluded from being classed as high top. To me, unless yours doing a conversion like yours, you'll have zero chance of getting a van reclassified. You might tick all the boxes but will come unstuck with it not being a high top. Your great conversion ticks all the boxes so you should have no problems.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the positive feedback and encouragement really appreciated 👍🤓👍

The DVLA are not processing or doing very little at the moment because of Covid 19. I am still waiting for a tax refund on my van i sold 9 weeks ago. Can't get in touch with them on phone or email. But when i bought my new van they processed log book same week and took money off me for road tax straight away. Good look with DVLA Mel at this uncertain time.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

Mine came back as a van with windows on around the time they changed the rules last year, I rang them to ask why and they would not tell me. At the time they had not released the check list, but looking at the check list now all I was missing the decals which I have now done. The other thing I am not sure about which they dont make clear is windows I have one on each side and windows in the back door so which the 4 windows it allows enough light into the living space which they told me is the main reason for changing the ruling on windows. So might take some more photos and try again. But my insurance company have allowed me to insure it as a camper van with the van with windows on logbook but not sure how you would stand with the law and the 10mph extra.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s really interesting 🧐

Good luck mate, but whilst they're still turning down 99% of conversions and professional conversions.. I don't fancy your chances. 🤞🤞🤞

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

Well its my daily driver to work so if i reclassify it as a camper then im driving with incorrect insurance (commercial) and if i buy motor home insurance and it gets rejected Im still breaking the law for insurance reasons and you dont want a ia10. Wont be driving a wheel chair with that let alone a lorry.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Graham did you get ya class 2

@grahamhardyvanlife5704

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld No and they stopped testing for the covid so ill have to weight a while.

@tonytca9439

4 жыл бұрын

The idea of cheap motorhome insurance is to separate from any commercial aspect. If you can't show this its a waste of time and money trying to change the logbook. Of course to benefit you gotta get thru the DVLA hurdle first BUT as you say soon as you want to use it in connection with business or travel to and from work I bet the cost is the same or even higher than normal works van due to the valued insured. For quirky insurance cover give Adrian Flux a call they will cover your DIY conversion for a "modified van" with use in connection with business if that's what you need. A few people run a trade out the back of the van, plumbers, mobile mechanics etc and live in it.

Hope it goes well Mel but as you say its free just keep doing what they ask lol

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

Mell do you have to have both window on the same side off ur van ...or put 1 window on one side and 1 window on other side...or just 1 side ????? awaiting your expert opinion

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Ray shamrock hello The DVLA clearly say two windows on at least one side of the van not including drivers or passengers windows so definitely not one on each side although I have put an extra one on the opposite side as well I did this for my comfort not for the sake of the DVLA everything I’ve done to my van is because I wanted to do it that way only thing i probably would have past on is the stickers good luck with your build and thank you for your support and encouragement really appreciated 👍🤓👍

@rayshamrock8906

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld thank your expert information

Give me your thoughts Mel if you would be so kind on Solar Generators to power a van totally instead of leisure batteries and all the wiring and other electrical products you have to fit. Regards Steve Partly converted 2013.LWB Transit.

Wonder what happens now to all the vans converted where V5 changes were accepted before the rules changed, do these vans need to be re-classified again!

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

No worries I don’t think they will be affected I’m still waiting for the reply I’ll post a video the day it comes 👍🤓👍

Great video . Quick question I know you got the From the salvage auction. But is there anywhere else you would recommend looking for a hightop van. I only ask because I’m not the best mechanic in the world so don’t really wanna take too much of a chance on that side. Keep the videos coming

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

All you can do is go to a good dealership 👍🤓👍

@tonytca9439

4 жыл бұрын

It took 6 months to find my van. L3 H2 are in extreme high demand but so much shit on ebay 95% of the vans are very high mileage with hardly any service history. Don't skimp out on paying for a good van the last thing you want is spending 5k on a conversion then have major van problems. Look for ex lease vans, low milage 2 or 3 years old. Also check out the auctions Go watch for a few weeks to get a feel of the right price. They have a full history and genuine reason why they are for sale as simply the lease expired. Once converted you know it can last another 15+ years if you keep the under belly rust free.

@bazailzb4737

4 жыл бұрын

tonytca hiya check out Sweeney kinkaid auctions they sell all sorts including vans that sometimes have decent milage most are bankrupt stock they are based in Glasgow good luck

Hi Mel, u mention high roof. Does this mean that a van now has to have a high roof ? Thanks mate

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Hi yes apparently they won’t except a low roof van anymore

@tro552

4 жыл бұрын

This will change because otherwise the T series from Volkswagen is over 😢 They didn’t build them to be builders or parcel vans

Hi Mell you have got to be having a laugh, if you get your van reg as a camper I will be very very surprised. I know people who have converted themselves, others with vans from professional converters who have fulfilled all the requirements but still are now reg as a van with windows, I believe something like 4.500 conversions have now been refused. Keep trying mate but don't hold your breath. We have given up with our sprinter, on the bright side a lower top speed makes a real difference to fuel consumption.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Well we will see

My theory is that they will be introducing cameras with AI. I'm sure it's a revenue collection thing. I had my van insured as a van in conversion with Adrian flux last year, I told them there is no way it'll pass and they said it's cool, the actual insurance companies know and are being flexible. They wanted an extra £100 this year so I got a business van policy for half the price as I'm self employed.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s interesting 👍🤓👍

@van-gabondramblinrose6398

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld Mine is insured as a 'motor caravan' but still registered as a panel van. Also, there is a bit of grey when it comes to speed limits. Putting it mildly. ;-) As far as I can tell, if you're van is N1 category and this isn't changed on re-registration to M1, then you can only do the lower speed limit. As I said it's somewhat grey, as I haven't heard of anyone getting a straight answer.

@tarndee7596

4 жыл бұрын

Van-gabond,Ramblin'Rose interested to know who that’s with as would like to see if they quote for me? Thanks

@van-gabondramblinrose6398

4 жыл бұрын

@@tarndee7596 Just Kampers. Trinity House if you want to try direct. I know A plan have a good rep from the VW crowd, but I think it's a specific office. Might be Thetford but not sure. Dan Cameron at A plan. 01635879910.

@OsianLedger

4 жыл бұрын

I insured my van as a project, they give you 6 months generally and require photos/updates, then when finished they allow it to be insured as a camper without DVLA input, the thing is most micro campers fall down because they don't have high tops, other than a pop top, what can you do. Anyone having this issue, try Adam Williamson insurance brokers, they were great with me

Hey Mel ... How about you load it with stickers before you send it off... you can always remove them after

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

It’s gone now 👍🤓👍

@fitzyslobstershack5335

4 жыл бұрын

@@BigVanSmallWorld The only reason i said that was because a few comments down one of the guys said he got refused ... Anyway mate you done a nice job all the best hope it comes through you deserve it ...

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

It’s crazy that you have to spend out all that money converting Van to camper and then apply to get rejected with photos, et cetera , It’s a crazy world we live in

The dval just love to make things awkward . I know ppl with 5k built vans that got trough and others who spent 30k and got no . It’s a crazy process

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Wish me luck then 👍😂👍

@travelingchalksworld5138

4 жыл бұрын

Mel’s Van World good luck chap 🚐☕️☕️👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🌈🙏💙❤️💙❤️

@thepoacher.5358

4 жыл бұрын

Good vlogg, nice to hear a positive note on this subject, and I'm sure to loads of people, all interested to see what the results are, Keep up the good work bud 👌

@johnfittis5764

4 жыл бұрын

You can do it Mel👍

Wish you all the luck Mel, I hope they do you spent so much hard work on your camper and it should be put a motohome :) hopefully you get good news 💪👍🙏😊

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍🤓👍

I'm not going to even bother with a reclassification the fact that they changed the rules to needing two windows down one side mid way through my conversion was enough for me to say screw em.

@inventor1v

4 жыл бұрын

Quite right too! 👍

@tonytca9439

4 жыл бұрын

Ditto I prefer mine stealth. If you put lots of windows in you spend all your time covering them up for privacy or trying to keep the heat in during winter. It only makes about £100 year difference on insurance for me anyway so not worth the hassle of even trying to convert to a campervan. More and more car parks are now saying NO Campervans.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Time will tell 👍😂👍

And the best way to get it passed is get a habitation certificate , a lot of people and even people who do KZread channels building there van like you who have complied with all the DVLA requirements and still they get its a van with windows but if you have a company to do the test , which cost about £130 depending on what part of the country you live in they can not refuse your van if you have carried out there requirements and got a independent company to say it’s a camper van and the LPG , electric and water have all been passed , the reason I know this is I know a guy who’s daughter works for the DVLA and she said as long as all the requirements have been carried out and you have photographed everything and got the certificate it will be changed over . Good luck don’t forget to let us all know how you got on with the DVLA

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

So did this work for you is your van now a motor caravan ? Of course I’ll let you all know I’ll make a envelope opening video lol 😂

@ivecamperbuild_thomas4084

4 жыл бұрын

Mel’s Van World yes it worked for me and I know a lot of KZreadrs who have had the replay it’s a van with windows

You don't have to change you V5C In order to get a campervan insurance. I've just insured my van with MyJustKampers as campervan without changing it with DVLA. One thing which put me off was "campervan style graphics on both sides of the vehicle". For everyone wondering what the hell this would be!? Just print a sticker in capital letters "THIS IS A CAMPERVAN" and you good to go🤣🤦‍♂️

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

That’s brilliant idea I may try that next time 👍🤓👍

Can anyone clarify this extra 10mph thing. Got mine altered to "motorised caravan" but was informed by the local Road safety partnership I can still only legally do 50 on a single carriageway as it's over 3050kg gross (which most vans except T4, T5, Traffic and small Transit's are). Doesn't bother me much, just slipstream a wagon and save fuel.. Oddly enough, years ago all you had to do was put side windows in a van to do 60.

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

I’m not sure myself now I think that changed it 🤷‍♂️

Your van looks every bit a cameraman. If they refuse you it will be an injustice. Bet loads of people would love owning your van its top

@BigVanSmallWorld

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you that’s really kind of you 👍🤓👍