To achieve balance between required cargo space and weight, experts share ways fleet managers can reduce the risk of error when spec’ing and ordering.
- Selecting an Underweight Chassis
Consider what you’re hauling (light vs. heavy cargo), and select a truck to achieve balance between required cargo space and weight. - Mismatching Chassis & Box Lengths
When the box of a truck has a big overhang past the rear wheels, this causes the front wheels to get ‘light’, the tires start wearing out and cupping. Purchasing truck stock from a dealer can help you confirm that the chassis cab-to-axle length can safely accommodate the length of body to be mounted. - Overlooking Box Height
Will the truck be loading or unloading in low clearance areas? - Forgetting About Interior Lighting
If the truck will be delivering at night, you’ll want to have proper lighting. For day-time use only, consider installing a translucent roof to allow natural light. - Trying to Spec a ‘One-Size-Fits-All’ Truck
Using the same truck for a variety of loads is inefficient. For example, a too small truck means making multiple deliveries to the same location, causing higher operating costs. - Forgetting Cargo Containment Considerations
When loads shift, this causes damage to the truck interior and the cargo. Determine load locks and their location. - Neglecting Floor Type
If you’re hauling liquids or find that you’re pressure washing your truck regularly, don’t spec a wood floor. Keep in mind what will work best with your application. - Overlooking Specs for Efficient Dock Delivery
If the truck will be loading and unloading at a dock, consider:
Rear door type
Chassis wheel size
Forklift package
To read about floor types for medium-duty box trucks as well as a list of handy questions to ask before your truck purchase, go to the story at Work Truck Magazine.
