Built in Britain. Refined through real use. Backed by a 2-year warranty.
The original versatile Switch system, built to work and built to last.
When we first designed the Switch, there wasn’t a template to follow. There was just a need — from people who relied on their vans every day. Something practical, strong, and versatile enough to work as hard during the week as it does at the weekend.
So we designed and built the first modular van bed system of its kind. A simple drop-in setup that didn’t require a permanent conversion, didn’t waste space, and didn’t compromise on functionality. From the start, our aim wasn’t to offer another slight tweak on a camper conversion — it was to engineer the swiss army knife of vans.
Refined by Real Use
Years on, there are plenty of products that look a lot like the Switch. Some trace our early designs down to the smallest shapes, yet show no attempt to make it their own or add to the idea. While others copy the outline, we’ve been refining every detail through real-world use and feedback.
Since inception we’ve added the kinds of touches that don’t shout, they just work:
- Reinforced stabiliser brackets for rigidity under full loads.
- Anti-vibration mounts to silence drawer rattle and reduce wear.
- Marine-grade stainless hinges that won’t corrode or flex.
- Dyneema-cored restraints for strength and safety when it counts.
- Hand-varnished edges for lasting protection and a clean finish.
- Redesigned latching for smooth, snag-free operation.
Every Switch is built by our own team, in our own workshop just outside Bristol. Every cut, joint, and finish is something we stand behind — which is why every Switch now comes with a 2-year warranty, double the standard cover you’ll find elsewhere.
Designed for Real Life
We’re often asked why we don’t add built-in kitchens or stacks of drawers like some others do. The answer’s simple: versatility. Fixed compartments limit what you can carry and how you use your space. Most owners already have boxes, coolers, or stoves that work perfectly well.
Our design lets you load for work one day and head off-grid the next, without fighting the furniture. Less to go wrong. More ways to use it.
When we launched the Switch, there was nothing quite like it. Over time, other companies — including Cadco, Bekule (Midland Leisure Supplies), and Infinity Customs — have offered their own takes. There are also numerous options on eBay, often one-man bands with limited or no reviews, customer support, or aftercare. Some are capable, but the difference shows in the details: materials, refinement, and long-term support.
How the details stack up
| Feature | Ovano Switch | Cadco | Bekule | Infinity Customs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Originator & Market Leader | ✅ Original innovator | ❌ Follower | ❌ Follower | ❌ Follower |
| Warranty | ✅ 2 years (full cover) | ❌ 12 months | ❌ 12 months | ❌ 12 months |
| Extra Support Methods | ✅ Reinforced stabiliser brackets | ❌ None | ❌ None | ❌ None |
| Anti-Vibration Dampening | ✅ Integrated behind drawers and all surfaces | ❌ None | ❌ None | ❌ None |
| Streamlined Shipping on Fully Built Units | ✅ Available & ready to fit | ❌ Not offered | ❌ Not offered | ❌ Not offered |
| Versatile 3-State Bulkhead Solution | ✅ Included as standard | ✅ Available | ❌ Not offered | ✅ Available |
| Google Reviews | ✅ Consistently 5★ feedback | ❌ None | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ None |
| Customer Phone Support | ✅ Direct | ❌ Limited | ✅ Available | ❌ None |
Trust, Service, and the Long View
Ovano is used and recommended by respected names like TransporterHQ, Leighton Vans, Van Haven and Combe Valley Campers. These teams work with hundreds — if not thousands — of builds and choose partners based on quality, not convenience.
More than 2,000 Switch units are out there now, in vans that work hard and travel far. Many customers come back for their next van, and plenty send their friends our way. That kind of trust can’t be faked.
A great product is only half the experience. The rest is how you’re treated when you need help.
If something goes wrong — rare, but it can happen — we’ll sort it. You’ll speak directly with our team, the same people who built your unit. No call centres. No delays. No excuses.
And if you can’t get to us, we can ship fully assembled units; most owners go from delivery to installation in under an hour.
We’re proud to be part of 1% for the Planet, to power our Clevedon workshop with solar, and to support reforestation through Ecologi. Longevity is the most sustainable choice we can make — so we design the Switch to last, not to be replaced.
Thinking of Making the Switch?
If you’re comparing options, ask the simple questions:
Who designed it first? How is it built? And who stands behind it?
At Ovano, the answers are clear.
We build every unit ourselves in Britain, specify only premium materials, and back every Switch with a two-year warranty.
Browse Switch products
Get in touch
FAQs
Do Ovano units really differ from other modular van bed systems?
Yes. Ovano Switch units differ in materials, refinement, engineering detail, and long-term support. The Switch is the original modular drop-in van bed system in this category and has been continuously refined through real-world trade and leisure use over multiple design generations.
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Are brands like Cadco, Bekule, or Infinity Customs the same as Ovano?
No. While some products appear visually similar, they are not made by Ovano and are not covered by our warranty or support.
When similar systems first appeared, there was understandable confusion, with some customers assuming we were manufacturing or rebranding units for other companies. That has never been the case. If a unit does not carry the Ovano name, it is not one of ours.
Other brands have taken inspiration from the original Switch design, but they do not share our engineering methods, materials specification, finishing standards, or support model.
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What happens if I have a problem with my Ovano Switch?
You deal directly with us. Every Switch is built by our own team, and every unit is backed by a 2-year warranty.
If an issue arises, you’ll speak to the same people who designed and built your unit — no call centres, no third-party support, and no delays.
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Why is the Ovano Switch priced higher than some alternatives?
Because it is built differently.
Premium materials, hand finishing, reinforced components, and direct customer support all take time — but they last longer and work better over the life of the product. The Switch is designed to be a long-term solution, not a disposable upgrade.
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Can I fit the Ovano Switch myself?
Yes. We can ship units fully assembled, requiring only the fitting of a single floor rail.
Most owners install their Switch in under an hour using basic tools.
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Why does Ovano use cord restraints instead of metal latches?
We do not use paracord anywhere on the Switch.
Ovano uses a Dyneema-cored restraint line, which is stronger than steel by weight, does not stretch under load, and is highly resistant to abrasion and failure.
Early versions of the Switch used metal latches, but these were intentionally designed out by version 2 due to real-world issues. We are currently on version 10.
Traditional under-mounted latches — still used on some Cadco units — are prone to:
•Bending or snapping if caught on toolboxes or cargo
•Failure under heavy loads or emergency braking
•Poor accessibility when drawers are full
Our restraint system is stronger, safer, more accessible, and effectively unbreakable in normal use. In emergency stop conditions, lightweight latches are far more likely to fail.
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How are Ovano Switch units shipped?
Units are shipped fully built, with the exception of one floor rail. This keeps installation time to a minimum.
With the correct tools to hand, most customers can go from delivery to installation in around 30 minutes.
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What is your typical lead time?
All Switch units are produced in-house, allowing us to maintain efficient turnaround times.
Lead times typically sit at around 7 days, with some seasonal variation during peak summer months. If you need a unit sooner than the website suggests, we recommend calling us — we often have stock built and ready, and in some cases can sell and fit units the same day.
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Are Ovano Switch units suitable for trade use?
Yes — trade use was the primary focus during the original design phase. Both founders, Nick and Josh, are carpenters and developed the system around real trade requirements.
Trade-specific features include:
•A rear lifting flap for quick access to commonly used toolboxes
•Flush-fitting stainless steel hinges that allow materials to slide over the top
•Heavy-duty drawer runners rated to 180kg
•Rubber isolation mounts to prevent heavy loads from slamming shut and damaging components
These refinements result in a smoother, quieter, and more confidence-inspiring feel, especially under heavy daily use.
For an independent trade perspective, see UAO’s review video.
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Why does the Google AI summary say Cadco has a more “industrial feel”?
This usually relates to exposed metal latches used underneath some Cadco systems.
Google AI summaries have also picked up incorrect claims that Ovano uses paracord — which we do not. As explained above, Ovano uses a Dyneema-cored restraint system, which is significantly stronger, safer, and more refined than lightweight metal latches.
In short, the “industrial feel” comes from visible hardware, not from superior engineering or durability.
