Behind the Build: The Process of Creating a Custom Expedition Truck
What it takes to build your custom vehicle
From initial consultation to final delivery, here's an inside look at how we transform a retired Mercedes-Benz work truck into your ultimate adventure vehicle.
Start With A Free Consultation
The journey begins with a free consultation. Give us a call to discuss your needs and preferences. During this conversation, we will:
Connect you with the right businesses to set you up for success: Building a custom expedition vehicle often involves collaborating with multiple specialists. We’ll introduce you to trusted partners who can assist with everything from purchasing to refurbishing and importing.
Begin discussing initial design ideas for your custom expedition truck: We’ll start brainstorming and sketching initial concepts based on your input. This early design phase is crucial for ensuring that your vehicle will be functional, comfortable, and suited to your overlanding adventures.
Talk through the best options and practices for your expedition vehicle: We understand that every adventurer has unique needs. We'll listen to your plans and help you determine which vehicle will best suit your lifestyle and travel goals.
Offer professional suggestions based on our extensive experience with custom overland vehicles: Our team has years of experience building custom expedition trucks. We'll provide expert advice on everything from vehicle selection to layout design, ensuring you get a vehicle that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Choose Chassis Type & Start Basics of Design
The finished digital design of a truck interior.
The next step is choosing the right chassis and starting the basic design. This involves identifying your needs and wants in your overland truck to determine the necessary space, engine type, and budget. Do you need a large dining area for family meals, a spacious sleeping area for comfort, or extra storage for gear? We’ll help you make these decisions to ensure your custom expedition vehicle is perfectly tailored to your lifestyle. We’ll also discuss the various options available for an expedition truck. We’ll review the strengths and weaknesses of different models, from the iconic Mercedes-Benz Unimog to the versatile Mercedes SK. This ensures you choose a chassis that can handle your travel demands, whether you're navigating rugged off-road trails or cruising down the highway.
Read about the difference between a Unimog and an SK on one of our latest blog posts.
Purchasing The Truck
Locating and purchasing the right truck can seem daunting, but we’re here to help. There are many options out there, and we will assist you in finding the perfect vehicle. With our extensive network and industry knowledge, we can help you track down the ideal base vehicle, whether it’s a retired work truck or a newer model ready for customization. We’ll guide you through the buying process to ensure you get the best deal, providing insights on what to look for when buying a used vehicle, helping you negotiate a fair price, and making sure all the necessary paperwork is in order.
Refurbish The Cab & Get A Box
A truck getting prepped to have a box put on.
Most trucks require some refurbishment to meet your specifications. This step often includes a new paint job, installing a box on the chassis, adjusting the chassis to desired sizes, and creating a pass-through. A fresh coat of paint not only makes your vehicle look new but also provides added protection against the elements. Installing a box on the chassis creates the core living space of your expedition vehicle. We can customize the size and layout to fit your specific needs. Modifications might be needed to ensure the vehicle meets your design specifications and is ready for all types of terrain. We work with trusted partners to ensure your truck is refurbished to the highest standards. There are many reliable companies both in the U.S. and across seas that do great refurbishing work. We are happy to give you some recommendations based on what you need. Contact us to discuss your refurbishment options and find the best solutions for your custom expedition vehicle.
Import Into The States
Importing your truck to the US can be a big job, but we have connections with great businesses to simplify the process. Vehicles must be 25 years or older to comply with USA importation laws, which makes it easier to import and modify older models from the 1980s and 1990s. These trucks are often well-suited for conversion into overland vehicles. Importing newer vehicles is possible but extremely difficult and expensive due to strict regulations designed to ensure all vehicles meet modern safety and environmental standards. Importation requires paperwork and must be done through a licensed importer. We recommend working with specialists to ensure everything is done correctly. Licensed importers can handle the complex documentation and legal requirements, making the process smoother for you.
Building Your Custom Vehicle
Once your vehicle arrives in the US, the exciting building process begins. At ACME, we specialize in creating fully custom trucks, ensuring that your unique vision comes to life. From the initial design phase to the final touches, our experienced team works closely with you to ensure every detail is tailored to your preferences. We use only the highest quality materials and employ skilled craftsmanship to construct a functional and stylish expedition vehicle that meets your specific needs. Throughout the build, we maintain open communication, providing you with regular updates and detailed reports on the progress. You’ll have the opportunity to review the work at various stages, offering input and making any necessary adjustments. This collaborative approach ensures that the final product not only meets but exceeds your expectations, delivering a truly personalized and exceptional vehicle ready for your adventures.
Pick Up The Finished Product
When you come to collect your new truck, you'll receive a thorough walkthrough of all the features and systems, ensuring you're comfortable and confident with every aspect of its operation. Whether you're gearing up to explore remote wilderness areas, embark on epic cross-country road trips, or simply enjoy the freedom and flexibility of off-grid living, your custom expedition vehicle is equipped and ready to handle whatever adventure lies ahead. With high-quality craftsmanship, top-of-the-line equipment, and a design tailored to your lifestyle, your new truck is not just a mode of transportation but a home and a partner in adventure (hence why we give each truck a name of its own). From rugged off-road capabilities to luxurious comfort, your custom expedition vehicle is prepared to take you wherever your dreams may lead.
Ready to start the process?
Contact us now to begin the journey of creating your dream expedition truck. Whether it's a Mercedes overland van, a custom travel van, or a rugged off-road vehicle, we’re here to help make your adventure vehicle dreams a reality. Check out our other blog post about the specifics of a Mercedes-Benz truck that compares different base models for more insights and detailed information.