Mike Phillips’s original goal wasn’t to outfit his new work van. But after finding out how long he’d have to wait to have a manufacturer build and install the work, the South Salem, N.Y., farrier realized he’d have to do the build to have it ready for the beginning of the 2021 show season.

A farrier for 17 years, Phillips’s practice delivers footcare for sport horses in New York and South Florida. He spends 2-week stretches in each destination, balancing the clients who don’t travel and those who split seasons.

Easy to Fit

The first thought with switching to a van is the improved fuel usage compared with a  truck and Purdybilt F3 trailer. With fuel prices climbing in early spring 2022, Phillips is happy with the improved miles per gallon (20 loaded, 26 unloaded) that the converted 2019 Mercedes Metris cargo van has logged, However, fuel efficiency wasn’t his primary goal with the purchase. Instead, he liked the van because it helps maneuverability at his Wellington barns.

“I like this more than the trailer because the barns here in Florida are very active, but can be tight on space,” he says. “You want to have a small foot print down here. There is always activity like a hay truck or maybe a…