Our Process | Yama Van Custom Conversions

We have 2023 4WD Sprinter Vans on order and available for conversion! Get in touch to reserve yours.

Our process is rooted in collaboration and partnership. We work with our clients to deliver world-class vans for epic adventures and comfort cruising.

Design with Intention

The Yama Vans build philosophy is rooted in the Japanese spirit of Shokunin, which is the pursuit of perfection. In keeping with this (and borrowing from adventure brand legend, Yvon Chouinard) these questions guide all of our projects:

Is it Durable?
Is it Functional?
Is it Versatile?
Is it Simple?
Is it Beautiful?
Is it Serviceable?

From consult to keys.

Our Process

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1. Deposit

Your deposit reserves your spot in our production calendar (we’re typically booking 9 - 12 months in advance) and precedes the design process.

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2. Design

We encourage our clients to visit us at Yama HQ for an in-person design consult and facility tour. This gives you a chance to get your hands on the materials, see our builds in-process, and meet our amazing team—basically to take a look under the hood both literally and figuratively. Then, we’ll dive into your requirements, wish list, and preferences together to determine overall project scope and design details. We always align on materials, mood boards and wireframe layouts before moving onto 3D renderings.

We discuss all the technicalities and specs and bring your dream van to life in 3D renderings to make sure it’s everything you’re expecting and then some. These renderings detail the interior/exterior finishes and layout to give a great sense of how your completed build will look and feel. If any revisions are required, we’ll work together to make the necessary refinements.

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3. Build

It’s become a Yama tradition to kick off the start of every build with a formal Build Launch. This is when we present the team with your story, your build details, and your vision. Once they have the most complete picture possible—both of you and your future van—our team begins crafting the structure and details of your build, with our values and philosophy top of mind. The build process usually takes between 12-16 weeks, depending on the level of complexity. During this time, we’ll be in frequent communication and send formal updates as the build progresses.

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4. Handoff

Ah, the grand reveal! Once the build is done and testing is complete, it’s time to introduce you to your new Yama Van! We highly encourage you to visit HQ to get your keys, documentation and to get properly oriented. We have some dynamite adventures in our own backyard that would be perfect for breaking in your new van, so you can get to know all the ins and outs while you’re still close to Yama HQ. If coming to Calgary isn’t an option, no problem! We will of course arrange for delivery.

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5. Resources & Support

Our relationship with our customers doesn't end at handoff, far from it! Our commitment is not just to provide you with an epic off-grid van but to foster a lasting relationship that ensures safety, enjoyment, and ease of operation on every adventure. Learn more about our Operating and Support Resources here!

Build FAQs

Where are you located?

How much does a van conversion cost?

A Yama Vans Signature Build lands between $170k-$220k CAD on average. These prices are for our work and do not include the cost of the van itself. An Adventure Wagon Kit installation starts at $35K CAD and increases with additional upgrades such as a heater, exterior gear, suspension etc.

It all begins with a conversation! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with your vision and we’ll be happy to chat about budget from there. American clients are billed in USD.

How long does a conversion take?

What types of vans do you work on?

Do I purchase the van from you?

No, you supply the van and we handle the conversion. That said, we have worked with Mercedes to thoughtfully curate the perfect van specifications required to optimize your Yama Van conversion. Please contact us first and we will introduce you to our friends at Mercedes Canada or USA to get started. Following this process will yield the best possible results for your build.

If you already have your chassis, no problem! We can still work together to build the adventure van of your dreams.

Do you work with clients from the US?

When can you start my van build?

How customizable are Yama Vans?

Our goal is to use our expertise to make your dream adventure-mobile a reality. But there’s a difference between commissioned and custom, and Yama is in the custom camp. We’re experts in Sprinter conversions and know what works, and what doesn’t. We’ve built relationships with trusted vendors based on their products and quality standards, and we know how to make your dream van a reality, even if it ends up diverting a little bit from the vision board you had before engaging with us.

Are Yama Vans subject to the new Luxury Goods Tax in Canada?

Can you convert my used van or renovate my RV?

Can you help me with part of my build or help me source parts?

How do you approach sustainability in van builds?

Have a specific question? Get in touch with us for specific answers.

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Our Partners

We hold ourselves and our partners to high standards and only build with products and partners who align with our core values. We have close relationships with providers, manufacturers, and brands that help us deliver the highest quality vans. Here are some of the brands we’re happy to be working with: