Best interior storage solutions for a Ram ProMaster van?

Question

Im in a total time crunch because my van build needs to be ready for a trip out west in three weeks and Im still stuck on the interior storage layout. The ProMaster walls are so tricky with that curve and the vertical ribbing, its driving me crazy. I really need something modular so I dont regret the layout halfway through my trip. Im currently deciding between those heavy duty extruded aluminum shelving units or just going with some custom wooden cabinets I build myself. The metal stuff is super pricey, like way over my 2k budget if I go full height, but the weight savings are huge. On the other hand, wood is cheap and fits the look, but I dont have the woodworking skills to make it look professional, plus it eats up way more interior square footage. Is it worth blowing the budget on the aluminum kits just to save the time and headache before I leave, or should I just suck it up and learn to cut some plywood this weekend? Really need to pull the trigger on this today or Im gonna be living out of plastic bins...

smlpfxkklp · Accepted Answer

To add to the point above: you should totally look into fabric storage systems if you are feeling the time pinch! The Dometic GO Storage System is absolutely fantastic because you can just strap them to the L-track or D-rings. They are modular, super light, and you can pull them out to pack inside your house before the trip. If you want a more rigid setup, check out the RB Components Universal Aluminum Cabinet, which is way easier to install than custom wood. These units are pre-built, saving you weeks of measuring those annoying ProMaster wall curves. Honestly, sticking with pre-engineered gear is the only way to hit your deadline without losing your mind. You will be so stoked to have a ready-to-go rig instead of fighting with sawdust and bad cuts this weekend!

wopxhxgoyk · Answer

Regarding what #2 said about fabric storage, I have been using the Blue Ridge Overland Gear Attic Gear Storage for years and honestly, it is a game changer for dead space. For the main stuff, I just went with modular Front Runner Outfitters Wolf Pack Pro boxes and some simple bungee cords. Saved me a ton of cash compared to custom cabinetry and works perfectly for those weird wall curves. Keep it simple and just get on the road already!

xpxjzhzorz · Answer

Honestly, skip the wood if you are on a three-week deadline. I have been down that road, and unless you are a pro cabinetmaker, the ProMaster wall curves will eat your time alive. Over the years, I have tried building custom setups and ended up hating the wasted space. If you want modularity without the headache, go with a hybrid approach using aluminum extrusions. You can buy 80/20 framing and build exactly what fits those weird ribs. Here is how I would handle it:

Grab 80/20 15 Series T-Slot Aluminum Extrusion to build the skeleton. It is lightweight, strong, and you can bolt it directly to the ribs using plusnuts.

Use L-Track 12 inch Aluminum Tie-Down Rail for modular wall storage. It is cheap and lets you move your mounting points later when you realize your gear setup is off.

Check out Adventure Wagon MOAB Bed and Storage System if you have extra cash, but honestly, just building a frame with 80/20 1515 T-Slot Aluminum will get you on the road fast. Using T-slots means you can tweak the layout on the fly. You dont need fancy woodworking skills, just a decent chop saw with a metal-cutting blade and a hex key. It is way lighter than plywood, too. You will thank yourself when you are out west and realize you need to move a shelf to make room for a bigger cooler or extra water. Good luck, you got this!