Converting a Van into a Pickup Truck: Service Description and Legal Procedures

The conversion of minibus or bus vehicles into panel vans is usually preferred to meet commercial vehicle needs or for reasons such as changing the intended use of the vehicle. This conversion is carried out by removing the vehicle’s seats and rearranging the passenger/cargo compartments. However, this process must be carried out in accordance with legal regulations. In particular, in accordance with Article 32/1 of the Land Road Traffic Law No. 2918, a fine is imposed on modifications and assemblies that are not notified to the registration office within 30 days. Therefore, it is important to work with an appropriate engineering firm for conversion procedures. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Transformation Process and Transactions

The transformation process involves specific steps:

• Removing the seats and separating the passenger/cargo compartments: The seats inside the vehicle are removed and the passenger and load compartments are separated.
• Preparation of the vehicle project and notification to the registration authority: A project for the conversion process is prepared and notified to the relevant registration authority.
• Carrying out technical inspections and renovation checks: The conversion process is subject to technical inspections and modification checks.
• Completion of license procedures: The license procedures are completed by applying to the relevant institutions and the vehicle is officially operated as a pickup truck.

Fees and Taxation

Certain fees must be paid during conversion procedures. These are usually fees paid for registration bodies, technical inspection centers and notary procedures. In addition, special consumption tax (SCT) situations should also be evaluated as a result of the conversion. Whether or not SCT will be charged may vary depending on the type and characteristics of the vehicle.

Required Documents

Among the documents required for conversion operations are documents such as the vehicle’s traffic registration certificate, seat dismantling labor invoice, seat layout plan. These documents ensure that the conversion process is carried out in accordance with legal regulations.

Converting minibuses or buses into vans must be done correctly and reliably. For this reason, it is important to work with a specialized engineering company for conversions.