NEWS

When it comes to building a custom service truck, one size definitely does not fit all. Whether you’re maintaining heavy equipment in a wide-open jobsite or troubleshooting in tight, urban areas, your service truck needs to match your work style, load requirements, and day-to-day environment. Before you start picking out body styles and crane types, consider these essential questions to ensure your build is truly work-ready.

How Close Can You Get to the Work?
Your work environment will directly influence the layout and size of your truck. If you typically have easy access and can park close to the equipment you’re servicing, a standard-length body may suffice. But if you’re often stuck working from a distance — say, across a trench or behind fencing — you may need a longer crane reach or even a truck with enhanced stability for extending the boom safely.

How Much Does the Equipment or Material Weigh?
Weight matters. Knowing the maximum weight you’ll be lifting determines the size and capacity of not only the crane, but also the body and chassis you need. Undershooting this could leave you stranded on the job. If you’re routinely handling heavier components like engine blocks or hydraulic cylinders, invest in a higher-capacity crane and adjust your truck body accordingly.

How Often Do You Use the Crane Each Month?
This is one of the most important factors when choosing between crane power types. The rule of thumb we use is:

• 60% or more crane use? Go with a fully hydraulic crane. These systems are built for durability, power, and frequent use, which is perfect for high-demand operators.
• 40% or less crane use? You might save money and weight with an electric over hydraulic crane, which is ideal for occasional lifts without sacrificing performance.

How Much Payload Do You Need for Tools and Parts?
Take stock of your typical gear, including toolboxes, parts bins, fluids, hoses, welding leads, and more. Now factor in the weight of those items plus the crane, compressor, fuel, and body. Every pound counts. Payload needs will also influence axle size, suspension, and ultimately the chassis you select. It’s better to overestimate here than under-build and risk overloading your truck down the road.

What Kind of Jobsites Do You Typically Work On?
Are your jobsites wide open with plenty of space to maneuver? Or are you navigating tight urban lots, alleyways, or tree-lined access roads?

Open jobsites: You can likely handle a longer body and extended crane reach without trouble.

Tight turns and confined areas: Opt for a shorter wheelbase, tighter turning radius, and a compact body design to maximize maneuverability.

Do You Need an Air Compressor and/or Welder?
If your tools run on air or you’re frequently making weld repairs in the field, these add-ons aren’t optional, they’re critical. Consider how often do you use air tools or weld in a typical month?

• Frequent use: You may need a built-in rotary screw compressor or a combination welder/compressor unit powered by PTO or hydraulics.
• Occasional use: A standalone gas-powered unit may be sufficient and more cost-effective.

Remember to factor in the space and weight of these systems when designing your layout since it all affects overall performance and payload.

Final Thoughts
A well-built service truck isn’t just a vehicle, it’s your mobile shop, your business hub, and your right hand on every job. Taking the time to think through these critical questions ensures your truck will not only meet today’s needs but grow with your business tomorrow.

If you’re ready to design a truck that’s tailored to your work, contact us at 800.225.8789 or email [email protected] to start the conversation. We’ll walk through your needs, job types, and equipment to create a service truck that works smarter and will last for many years to come.