For nearly thirty years, the name Van Ladder described a simple idea: a ladder mounted to a van. But the equipment behind that name has evolved far beyond its origins. From new chassis platforms to the award-winning Chariot Bucket system, this article tells the story behind the innovation—and why the company’s name is changing to reflect what the product has become.
When Ben Phillips started painting truck doors by hand in the late 1970s, he never imagined the sign company his curiosity would build. More than forty years later, Phillips Signs continues to grow—driven by craftsmanship, relationships, and smart investments in equipment. This story explores how a long-term partnership with Van Ladder bucket trucks became part of that journey.
When SignARC of Beckley struggled with labor shortages and outdated equipment, they didn’t just replace a truck—they transformed their entire installation workflow. Discover how a Van Ladder Chariot Bucket Truck replaced cranes, reduced crew sizes, and helped SignARC work faster, safer, and more efficiently in real-world conditions.
Traditional bucket trucks are messy, disorganized, and weather-dependent. The Van Ladder Workport box solves all of that with enclosed storage, accessible compartments, and workflow that keeps crews moving—rain or shine. See how this mobile workshop is transforming daily sign installations.
KC Custom Signs in Kansas City isn’t just growing—it’s thriving, thanks to a culture built on trust, teamwork, and the right tools. Founder Mike Kuzmich shares how a Van Ladder bucket truck helped transform their install game, improve reliability, and support national expansion. With nearly zero downtime and six years of dependable performance, Mike says, “It doesn’t just work—it will outwork you.” Discover why KC Custom Signs recently upgraded to their second Van Ladder and how it continues to fuel their future.
Thinking about starting a sign service division? This post breaks down why it’s one of the smartest moves a sign company can make. From predictable revenue and better customer retention to winning future manufacturing contracts, service builds long-term success. Learn what it takes to run a great service team—and how Van Ladder’s sign-specific truck design gives you the edge in speed, storage, and reliability.
Do you really need a two-man bucket truck for sign installations? In most cases, no. Van Ladder’s single-man Chariot Bucket, paired with purpose-built accessories, allows installers to handle most jobs solo—more efficiently and at half the cost. In this post, we compare single-man vs two-man bucket trucks in real-world scenarios, including insight from sign pros like Jason Ricketts who’ve diversified their fleets for maximum ROI.
Is it time to stop renting and buy your own bucket truck? If you’re using towable lifts multiple times a week, the math may surprise you. This post compares the real-world costs, inefficiencies, and limitations of lift rentals to the flexibility and profitability of owning a purpose-built bucket truck like the Van Ladder. Get insights on annual costs, hybrid flexibility, accessory advantages, and how faster surveys lead to more sales.
When is it time to stop subcontracting your sign installs and bring the work in-house? This post walks through the financial, operational, and strategic factors sign company owners should consider—from fixed costs and staffing to service potential and sales efficiency. Learn why many are choosing to invest in their own bucket truck and how the Van Ladder is built for companies making that leap.
Today’s signs may be lighter, but that doesn’t mean they’re easier to install—unless you have the right tools. Van Ladder’s Chariot Bucket is packed with purpose-built accessories made specifically for the sign industry. From rotating forks and clamps to banner spindles and pattern arms, these tools give installers the freedom to work solo—efficiently and safely. See how one truck can be your aerial workshop.