Understanding the Different Types of Utility Trucks

Utility trucks are hugely popular and widely known to improve operational efficiency. The global utility truck market size is growing, expected to reach USD 127.46 billion by 2030. Both small businesses and large trucking fleets can benefit from switching to utility trucks. However, there are many options out there to consider, so it’s important to do your research and seek professional advice to find which is best for you.

 

What is a Utility Truck?

Utility trucks differ from other types of trucks in that they typically have a collection of compartments to store various tools and supplies. This makes utility trucks extremely convenient and practical for jobs requiring a lot of tools and easy access to them. Utility trucks are sometimes referred to as service trucks or work trucks. 

 

Different Types of Utility Trucks

Choosing the right utility truck for your business is an important investment that can save you time and money in the long run. There are many types of utility or service trucks available, all with compartments for transporting and storing tools and equipment, but with different bodies for different needs:

• Aluminum service bodies: aluminum bodies are very lightweight, which is easier on the truck and can save you money on fuel. Aluminum is durable and doesn’t rust easily, so it can last longer.
• Steel service bodies: steel bodies are generally stronger than aluminum, though more heavyweight.
• Crane bodies: crane bodies are designed to support cranes to help you with your heavy lifting. Cranes can be light-duty or heavy-duty.
• Canopy bodies: canopy bodies are covered and create an enclosed, mobile workstation, perfect for those working on the go.

For larger fleets of utility trucks, you may want to consider looking for utility trucks with telematics, or GPS systems, which can improve the tracking and management of your fleet. More recently, hybrid and electric trucks have become an option for utility trucks, so this may be something you want to consider.

Keep in mind that no matter what trucks you choose for your business, you can always customize them to better suit your specific needs.

Custom Utility Truck Beds

When you go custom with your utility truck bed, you ensure that each compartment and function is tailored to your specific needs. This way, you’ll be confident that you’re getting the most out of your investment. 

Here are a few ways to customize and transform your utility truck bed: 

• Design your utility truck bed based on your industry and the specific jobs you’ll be performing. As an example, an electrician may need a crane and special storage for cables added to their utility truck bed. 
• Choose the exact number and size of compartment boxes to meet your specific storage needs.
• Add drawers and dividers to your compartment boxes for easy access and improved organization. 
• Enclose the entire truck bed body for more security and protection from the elements or to create a mobile workstation. 
• Level up the appearance of your utility truck with custom finishes and vehicle graphics or full truck wraps. 

Consult with a truck customization expert to come up with a custom truck bed design that meets all your needs.

 

Buying a Utility Truck

For a general sense of what a utility vehicle might cost you, consider that in 2016 the average price of a 4×2 utility service truck was $69,161, and the average price of a 4×4 truck utility service truck was $75,807. Keep in mind, the price can vary significantly based on the type of truck and the level of customization you decide to invest in. 

Here are a few important questions you’ll want to consider when buying a utility truck:

• How much weight will you need to carry? If you’ll be hauling heavy equipment or materials, it will be worth it to pay extra for additional horsepower.
• How many passengers do you need to carry? For example, most vehicles have space for 2-4 passengers, but you can pay extra for vehicles with more cabin room.
• Which is best: rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive? Consider how much weight you’ll be carrying and what weather and conditions you’ll be driving in.
• Which safety features do you need?
• What tools and supplies will you be carrying and how easily accessible do these need to be? Do you need a special compartment layout for your tools or customized accessories?

Truck Utility Rack

Whether your utility truck is custom or not, you can make it even more functional and versatile with a few key utility truck accessories. Utility racks, often called ladder racks, are one of the most popular accessories for work trucks. They can be used to safely transport ladders, lumber, and other long or bulky cargo above your truck bed. Adding this simple yet effective storage solution can maximize cargo capacity, free up valuable space in your truck bed, and make loading and unloading easier and more convenient.

More Utility Work Truck Accessories

Here are some additional accessories to consider for your utility or service truck: 

• Toolboxes to safely and securely store and protect your valuable tools and equipment. 
• Hoists to help your crew vertically lift heavy loads. 
• Liftgates to make loading and unloading your utility truck bed easier. There are many different types of liftgates available depending on your needs. 
• Tuck caps, tonneau covers, or truck canopies to improve security and protect your cargo from the elements. 
• Electric or hydraulic cranes to transport heavy loads over short distances without additional manpower or trucks.
• Hooklifts to maximize the utility and versatility of your work trucks.

 

Customization for Utility Trucks

If you are in Oregon and want to explore your utility truck options, Pacific Truck Colors is a one-stop shop for utility truck customization. Our Custom Truck Equipment Sales and Installation Department is one of the largest in the Northwest and carries high-quality truck equipment at competitive prices to meet all of your specialized needs. Contact us today to get started and request free a quote!