Newbie here!

JohnnyD · Jun 13, 2017

Hi everyone!

I've been interested in the tiny house movement and van life for a few years now. Due to a divorce that is about to be wrapped up, I will soon be in a situation to do what I want to do and live tiny...in a van.......yippee! I've watched all of Bob's youtube videos as well as other vandwellers so I feel I have a solid idea on what to do, how to set things up and what to expect.

The hardest decision is choosing a vehicle and I'm looking at several dual rear wheel box trucks. Is there a way to avoid the vehicle being classified as commercial since I will be using it for personal reasons? My fear is I will be subject to interstate weigh stations/log books etc. Any advice, tips or suggestions out there?

I apologize if my question is answered elsewhere on the forum so hopefully I will get a pass since I'm a newbie

Thanks, John

highdesertranger · Jun 13, 2017

Welcome John to the CRVL forums! To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips & Tricks" post lists some helpful information to get you started. We look forward to hearing more from you. highdesertranger

Wabbit · Jun 13, 2017

Hi JohhnyD and welcome. No idea on the dual commercial thing, but hopefully someone can chime in with some advice. Best of luck to you.

frater secessus · Jun 13, 2017

JohnnyD said:
Due to a divorce that is about to be wrapped up, I will soon be in a situation to do what I want to do and live tiny...in a van.......yippee!

I got divorced a few years ago and it was tremendously liberating. I was able to pay off my debt, increase my credit score by 150pts, live where I want and do what I want. The dogs can get on the furniture and I have literally never been happier.

JohnnyD said:
The hardest decision is choosing a vehicle and I'm looking at several dual rear wheel box trucks. Is there a way to avoid the vehicle being classified as commercial since I will be using it for personal reasons? My fear is I will be subject to interstate weigh stations/log books etc. Any advice, tips or suggestions out there?

There are federal and state regs (and insurance considerations). The most common limit I've read of for avoiding commercial status is 10,000lb GVWR or 16 pax. Even then insurance will likely be commercial unless/until you re-register it as an RV.

Before I bought a van I asked my insurance agent if either the 1500 or 2500 were regarded commercial even with personal use; in my case they were not.

Putts · Jun 13, 2017

Varies state to state, but in Montana if you have four of these five things you can re-register as an RV. Insurance and registration goes down dramatically.

cook-top or fridge
self-contained toilet
110VAC or plumbed propane
potable water system including sink and faucet
heating and/or air conditioning

I'm building a step van that's currently registered as a commercial vehicle and will re-register when I comply.

The biggest problem for most folks is securing a loan and insurance for a commercial vehicle as a private citizen. I found it possible by going to my Farmers Ins agent who carries my home and car insurance and having him add my step van.