Serving Ventura County
Ventura County's Custom Van Builder — Down the 101
We build custom vans and cargo trailers out of our North County San Diego shop in Encinitas, about 3 hours from Ventura via the 5 to the 101. Clients from Ventura, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, and Simi Valley work with us because finding an experienced, full-service van builder in Ventura County isn't easy — and the results are worth the drive.
Why Ventura County Clients Choose Our San Diego Shop
Ventura County is one of the most van-life-ready regions in California. Between the Channel Islands, the PCH corridor, and easy access to the Central Coast, you're surrounded by places worth exploring. The challenge is finding a builder nearby who can actually deliver on a professional conversion.
Our Encinitas shop is about 3 hours south of Ventura via the 5 to the 101. It's a longer drive, but our Ventura County clients typically only make it two or three times during the entire build process — and the build quality makes it worth it.
The initial consultation happens by phone or video — no need to make the drive just to talk through your project. We talk through your van, your plans, and your budget, then build out a detailed quote broken down by system. During the build, we send regular photo updates. You come down for the final walkthrough when everything is built and tested.
Drive Times from Ventura County
Ventura
2.5–3 hrs via I-5 / US-101
Oxnard
2.5–3 hrs via I-5 / US-101
Thousand Oaks
2.5–3 hrs via I-5 / US-101
Camarillo
2.5–3 hrs via I-5 / US-101
Simi Valley
2.5–3 hrs via I-5 / CA-118
Moorpark
2.5–3 hrs via I-5 / CA-23
What We Build for Ventura County Clients
We do full custom conversions on Mercedes Sprinters, RAM ProMasters, Ford Transits, and cargo trailers. Every build covers five core systems:
Interior & Cabinetry
Custom layouts, storage, beds, seating, countertops
Electrical
Solar, lithium batteries, inverters, shore power, lighting
Plumbing
Fresh/gray water tanks, sinks, showers, water heaters
Exterior
Roof racks, awnings, bike mounts, exterior lighting
Climate Control
Insulation, ventilation fans, diesel heaters, AC units
Builds typically range from $30K to $120K+ depending on scope and finish level. Check our pricing page for a full breakdown.
Van Life Destinations from Ventura County
Ventura County is one of the best home bases for van life in the state. You're right on the coast, the Channel Islands are practically in your backyard, and the Central Coast is an easy day trip. Here's what our Ventura County clients explore most:
Coast & Islands
- Channel Islands — Ferry from Ventura Harbor, world-class camping
- Big Sur — 4 hours up PCH, one of the best coastal drives anywhere
- Pismo Beach / SLO — 2.5–3 hours north, great beach camping
- Santa Barbara — 30 min up the 101, wine country and coast
Mountains & Desert
- Los Padres National Forest — Right in the backyard, dispersed camping
- Sequoia / Kings Canyon — 3.5 hours north, giant trees and alpine lakes
- Death Valley — 4.5 hours east, best in winter and spring
- Joshua Tree — 3.5 hours east, desert boondocking
How the Process Works for Ventura County Clients
Most of our Ventura County clients start with a phone or video consultation — no need to drive down for the first conversation. We talk through your van, your plans, and your budget, then put together a detailed build plan and quote broken down by system. You approve everything before we start.
During the build, we send photo updates so you're never guessing where things stand. When it's time for your final walkthrough, you drive down to Encinitas, we walk you through every system, and you drive home in your finished van.
See Our Full ProcessFrequently Asked Questions
How far is Emery Custom Builds from Ventura?
Our Encinitas shop is about 3 hours from Ventura via the 5 to the 101. Most clients handle the initial consultation by phone or video, then visit the shop once or twice during the build.
How much does a custom van conversion cost?
Builds typically range from $30,000 to $120,000+ depending on scope and finish level. Basic builds run $30K-$50K, Standard builds run $55K-$75K, and Premium builds run $80K-$120K+. These prices cover labor and materials — the vehicle is separate.
What van platforms do you convert?
We build on Mercedes Sprinters, RAM ProMasters, Ford Transits, and cargo trailers.
Do I need to visit the shop during the build?
Most clients visit two or three times total. The initial consultation can be done by phone or video. We send regular photo updates during the build. You'll come down for the final walkthrough when everything is complete and tested.
We also serve San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and all of Southern California.
Ready to Start Your Ventura County Build?
Professional van conversions from our San Diego area shop. Tell us about your project and we'll put together a detailed quote.
Tell Us About Your Build