Protective van accessories VOORUWBUS

Where does damage most often occur on a van?

In practice, we find that damage usually occurs in places where drivers have the least visibility or awareness whilst manoeuvring.

Which accessories offer the best protection for your van?

Side bars: protection against side impact

A side bar is primarily designed to absorb side-impact collisions. In the event of contact with bollards or other obstacles, the tube absorbs the initial impact before the bodywork is struck.

It is important to note that not every side bar offers the same level of protection. A robust model with a wall thickness of 2 mm provides noticeably better protection than lighter versions measuring 1.3 or 1.5 mm. The number of mounting points and the vehicle-specific installation also play a major role.

For modern vehicles such as the Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit Custom, technical factors such as battery locations in electric vehicles must also be taken into account. Take a look at our sidebars for commercial vehicles.
Many products are available directly from stock.

Treeplanks or sidebars: what’s the difference?

Many customers are unsure whether to choose a step board or a side bar, but the two products serve different purposes.

A side step is primarily designed as a step and provides extra comfort when getting into the vehicle. It also offers protection, though less so than a side bar as it is fitted closer to the vehicle.

A side bar is positioned away from the bodywork and therefore absorbs side impacts more effectively.

In short:

• A side bar provides better protection against side impact​
• A side step is ideal as a step​
• A side step combines protection with style​

View and compare side steps and side bars. 

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Why bumper protection is always worth it

Dhe rear bumper is one of the parts of a van that is most prone to damage.

A bumper plate distributes the pressure during loading and unloading and prevents the plastic of the bumper from cracking or warping.

For intensive use, we usually recommend aluminium with a chequered pattern, as this is the most robust and wear-resistant option.

For more luxurious vehicles or taxi models, customers are more likely to opt for stainless steel finishes in high-gloss or smoked.

Practical difference:

• aluminium = the strongest protection
• Stainless steel = a more luxurious look
• smoke / black = modern look

Discover bumper protectors for everyday use

The interior deserves protection too: seat covers

It’s not just the exterior of a commercial vehicle that has to endure a lot on a daily basis.

Chairs wear out quickly due to normal wear and tear, dirty work clothes or frequent getting in and out of the chair.

Good seat covers protect the original upholstery and help keep the interior looking neat for longer.

Suitable models are available for vehicles such as the Volkswagen Crafter, Mercedes-Benz Vito or Renault Trafic. So, Protect your interior too with suitable seat covers.

What mistake do many drivers make?

Many customers only invest in protection once the initial damage has already become apparent.

This often results in double costs: first the repair, then the protection.

Other common mistakes include:

• choosing based on appearance rather than function
• protecting only the back and neglecting the sides
• think that every side bar is also intended as a side step
• underestimate the damage caused by daily use

In practice, a minor repair often costs as much as a decent protective kit.

Which finishes do customers choose most often?

For purely functional purposes, many customers opt for matt or brushed stainless steel finishes, as minor signs of wear are less noticeable.

Those who combine protection with styling are more likely to choose black, as it complements the modern black accents on vehicles.

Important to note: black coatings remain popular, but show signs of wear and tear more quickly than aluminium or stainless steel.

Installation and showroom: sorted straight away

If products are in stock and an appointment is made in advance, we can also install accessories straight away.

Whilst the installation is taking place, customers can wait in comfort in our showroom, where there is Wi-Fi and refreshments available.

There, you can also view the products in person, compare them with different finishes and even hold them up next to the vehicle to make the best choice. Find out more about our showroom in our showroom blog post.

Frequently asked question

Does a side bar really protect against damage?

Yes, a solid side bar with a wall thickness of at least 2 mm absorbs lateral impacts before the bodywork is hit. This extra protection can prevent costly bodywork damage, particularly when encountering bollards, walls and narrow passages.

Protect your van before any damage occurs

Anyone who drives a van every day knows how quickly minor damage can lead to high costs.

Protection is therefore not a luxury, but often a wise investment that quickly pays for itself.
Can’t decide between side bars, roof racks or bumper protection? Visit our showroom or get in touch. We’d be happy to demonstrate the differences on your vehicle and can fit them straight away if they’re in stock.