Is it worth trying to get my van re-classed?

[Mr Drizz]

Hi,
So it's been a while since I posted, a very long while.

I am happy to have completed my van conversion but to the DVLA it is still a van (Citroen Dispatch)
It doesn't meet the DVLA requirements (No graphics or High top) but meets everything else. Is it even worth going through the process when all they may do is call it a van with windows. Does that classification actually mean anything to anyone?

 

[jonsea]

bump

 

[Sapper520]

Hi,
So it's been a while since I posted, a very long while.

I am happy to have completed my van conversion but to the DVLA it is still a van (Citroen Dispatch)
It doesn't meet the DVLA requirements (No graphics or High top) but meets everything else. Is it even worth going through the process when all they may do is call it a van with windows. Does that classification actually mean anything to anyone?

My neighbour had a Sprinter van converted, then tried to get it classified as a Campervan / Motorhome three times.

He gave up, it’s a van with windows and an agreed value with his insurance.

 

[HKF]

I know nothing about the classifications. What's the classification you hope for? As a newbie to motorhoming, if I were to look at a conversion and it was classed as a van, it might put me off because I would assume it wasn't 'up to standard'. I've no idea what that 'standard' might be but it's just a perception I might have. Of course, people who are wise about conversions would probably be ok with it. I'm just giving you my first thought as someone who has no knowledge of conversions. If it were to be classed as a 'campervan or 'motorhome' then I would definitely look differently at it. However, if it was classed as a 'van' or a 'van with windows', I think I'd probably pass on looking at it at all.....which might be a big loss on my part. I hope this helps

 

[Two on Tour]

Hi,
So it's been a while since I posted, a very long while.

I am happy to have completed my van conversion but to the DVLA it is still a van (Citroen Dispatch)
It doesn't meet the DVLA requirements (No graphics or High top) but meets everything else. Is it even worth going through the process when all they may do is call it a van with windows. Does that classification actually mean anything to anyone?

You have already answered your own question as you say that your van does not meet the DVLA requirements.

You might find that you pay a higher insurance premium if your insurance company views your van as a commercial vehicle.
I have a Nissan Navara 4 x 4 which insurance companies consider to be a commercial vehicle although it is only for my personal use.

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[Sapper520]

I know nothing about the classifications. What's the classification you hope for? As a newbie to motorhoming, if I were to look at a conversion and it was classed as a van, it might put me off because I would assume it wasn't 'up to standard'. I've no idea what that 'standard' might be but it's just a perception I might have. Of course, people who are wise about conversions would probably be ok with it. I'm just giving you my first thought as someone who has no knowledge of conversions. If it were to be classed as a 'campervan or 'motorhome' then I would definitely look differently at it. However, if it was classed as a 'van' or a 'van with windows', I think I'd probably pass on looking at it at all.....which might be a big loss on my part. I hope this helps

If it helps…..my neighbours van was converted by a local bloke who does one van at a time. My neighbour purchased an ex-DPD van and handed it over to the converter.

The converter put in various windows and roof openers, a mains system, 12v system with leisure batteries, gas system, living area, shower room with toilet, built in bed, awning etc……DVLA said no.

It’s almost got all we’ve got other than Solar and Wifi, but I’m sure these wouldn’t count anyway.

 

[poppycamper]

DVLA are VERY VERY reluctant to class a van conversion as a "Motor Caravan" these days Instead it is classed as a " Van With Windows"
However it is my understanding that (in DVLA's eyes) a "van with windows" carries the same perks as a "motor caravan"...I.E class4 mot.. speed limits, Insurance etc.... so yes in my view it is worth getting it reclassed as "Van with windows"

 

[Martist]

If you take it abroad you might like to check any toll regulations. I got caught out within a few minutes of entering Slovenia on my way to Austria. I had bought a motorway visa at the border thinking that I had a camper. The traffic policeman in his mobile office pointed out that my reg documents disagreed. 300 euro penalty