Lightweight Service Bodies

The benefits to having a service body on your work truck made of light weight material are endless. Service bodies such as the fiberglass composite Durashell by Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies offer lightweight benefits without compromising durability. Lightweight materials suitable for work trucks include aluminum, fiberglass composite, and high-strength steel.

Benefits of Lightweight Service Bodies:

• An increased payload is possible when you have a lightweight service body. Who doesn't want a higher payload capacity to carry more tools and equipment? With a lightweight service body you won't have to make multiple trips to the job site or leave behind tools that would make the job easier.
• A lighter work truck means reduced fuel costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, every 10 percent decrease in total vehicle weight adds 6.5 percent to your fuel economy. With multiple work trucks in a fleet, those numbers add up to big savings.
• Using lightweight materials creates a green work truck or fleet. Environmental impact is improved because with every gallon of fuel saved, not only do you save money but 19.4 lbs of carbon is prevented from being released into the atmosphere (www.automotive-fleet.com).

Durashell 370

Furthermore, more vehicle options are available when you have a lightweight service body. The Durashell is a transferable service body. If you have multiple truck options in your fleet, the lightweight Durashell can easily move, fully loaded, from one pickup to another in minutes. Transferability further reduces environmental impact and operating costs.

Vehicle maintenance is an operating cost that decreases with lightweight service bodies. A lighter pickup truck receives less wear and tear, and therefore requires less maintenance. Fiberglass composite service bodies in particular look better for longer. The material makes them ideal for advertising because they can easily be wrapped with company information. The Durashell is a moving billboard for your company.

If you are interested in the benefits of a lightweight service body, call 866-497-7200 toll free to talk to a Fleetwest representative or get a Durashell quote at www.Fleetwest.net. Now through July 5th Fleetwest is offering huge savings on any new Durashell model so call today!

CNG Work Truck News

You may have noticed that many major truck companies are offering an increasing number of models that run on alternative fuels (see previous article). This is not necessarily because companies are concerned about the environment, although that does play a role. As conventional gas prices rise, the consumer wants more economical options for their fleets or own personal use, creating a demand for alternative fuel vehicles. In particular, CNG or compressed natural gas, has been a trending topic in the work truck community.

Ryder System, Inc. is the first company of its kind in North America to offer CNG trucks for rent, starting in California. The leasing cost for these trucks is compatible with diesel trucks and it offers a cleaner, cheaper fuel alternative. Furthermore, big companies such as PepsiCo's Frito-Lay are leading the way with new CNG fueling stations. Frito-Lay opened a public fueling station in Wisconsin, which is the first of seven planned to open in the U.S. The company plans to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse emissions 50 percent by 2020.

The American Gas Association and America's Natural Gas Alliance unveiled six new bi-fuel vehicle prototypes recently. The vehicles range from the Hyundai Sonata to the BMW-X3 with both gas tanks and CNG 'pony' tanks. The CNG tanks do not take away from the trunk space in the vehicle and they are practically identical to the gas-powered models.

Another form of natural gas similar to CNG is LNG. In fact, the only difference between the two alternative fuels is how it is stored. So how do you know which will be better for your truck? There are a few factors to consider such as vehicle type, usage time, weight, and fuel cost (www.hardworkingtrucks.com).

• CNG is the better natural gas for light to medium-duty trucks or heavy trucks that don't get as much mileage. This is because CNG adds up to four times the weight of diesel which adds to your overall pay-load.
• LNG has a weight and distance advantage because it is lighter, making it more suitable for heavy-duty trucks that don't want a lot of extra added weight. It also takes less time to fill up at the pump with LNG, however less fuel stations are currently available and the shelf life is shorter.

No matter what fuel your pickup truck runs on, Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies has a Load'N'Go or Durashell service body to complete it. For a light-weight option to further your fuel savings, consider the spacious fiberglass composite Durashell. These high-quality, rugged service bodies are secure and durable, making them ideal for industries such as HVAC, glass repair, electrical, or as a van alternative. Call your Fleetwest representative now through July 5th toll free at 866-497-7200 to get huge savings on any new Durashell model (See internet special).

Durashell 170

Pickup Trucks are Here to Stay

As long as there is hauling to be done in industries such as agriculture and construction, the pickup truck will be there in all of it's rugged, rough and tough glory to get the job done. No Prius can replace the work horse that is a pickup truck. However, with ever evolving fuel economy, the future pickup trucks may look different than what we are use to.

In the past big, huge, giant pickup trucks have been the trend, with each major manufacturer attempting to out horse-power the others. More profitable big trucks and SUV's took the place of compact trucks. The pickup truck giants either stopped making their version of the compact truck altogether (i.e. the Ford Ranger) or they remained the exact same through the years with no new updates or features.

So what will future pickup trucks look like? Will the compact pickup make a comeback? This depends on the new technology that becomes available and the change in fossil fuel prices. Competition will continue to ensue for more power and towing capacity. But a new major contender has been added to the mix: fuel economy. Ford's F150 standard full-size pickup with its Ecoboost V-6 engine that gets 25 mpg on average is a prime example of the powerful and fuel efficient power trains for  new truck generations. The Chevy Colorado represents a reemergence of more purpose-built compact pickup trucks. Overall, sensible pickups that are the right size for the job will be favored over heavy-duty pickup trucks with V-8 turbo diesel gas guzzlers.

As long as there are pickup trucks, big or small, there will be service bodies to fit them. Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies makes Load'N'Go and Durashell models for both heavy-duty and compact pickup trucks. Check out the interactive Fit Guide to find the service body best suited for your pickup truck and go to www.Fleetwest.net to get a quote or call your Fleetwest representative toll free at 866-497-7200.

Durashell 90 fits Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger

Load'N'Go Sportsman fits long and short bed pickups. Now available at Lowes.com

Durashell Service Body - the lightweight champion

The Durashell 170 is shown in this short one minute YouTube video on a 2011 Chevy 2500 HD pickup truck.

The Durashell by Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies is made from a lightweight fiberglass composite. It is rugged and durable so it will outlast multiple pickup trucks, yet light so you will save in fuel costs and can carry a heavier payload.

Durashells offer plenty of storage space, from 90 to 370 cubic feet depending on the model. The Durashell 170 featured in the YouTube video above offers 170 cubic feet of storage space. Because it is made of fiberglass composite, the Durashell is able to transport many materials and tools safely, from hazardous pool chemicals to fragile materials like glass. Durashell service bodies are suitable for industries such as HVAC, window repair, plumbing, pool installation and care, construction, and cable/internet.

The Durashell fits all major makes of pickup trucks such as GMC, Chevy, Ford, Dodge, and Toyota. Models are available to accommodate both short and long bed trucks. Check out the interactive Fleetwest Fit Guide to find the Durashell service body for your pickup.  If you are looking to create a "greener" fleet, the Durashell is a great option. Not only will a lightweight service body reduce fuel costs and CO2 emissions, but the Durashell also fits new pickup trucks that run on alternative fuels such as CNG and propane.

How could the Durashell service bodies get any better? They are completely transferable. The Durashell can move from on pickup truck to another in minutes. This means less trucks are needed for your fleet, which will be versatile and economical. You and/or your company will also by virtually eliminating downtime. When a technician calls in sick or your pickup truck needs to go in for repairs, simply move the Durashell off the truck and onto another.

No holes are drilled for the installation of the Durashell, creating a higher resell value for both your pickup truck and the service body. The Durashell can be easily installed with either the built-in forklift tunnels, a crane, or optional lifting jacks. Check out the life-cycle comparison to get the financial details on savings with a slip-on service body vs. bolt-on.

Now through July 5th you can get huge savings on a new Durashell service body. Go to www.Fleetwest.net to get details on the Durashell internet special or call your Fleetwest representative toll free at 866-497-7200 to get a quote.

Fiberglass Vs. Steel Service Bodies

There are many options that you need to consider when in the market for a new service body, starting with whether you want fiberglass composite or steel construction. This decision will be determined by factors such as what industry you are in, what the service body will be used for, and environmental conditions in your region.

Fiberglass CompositeFiberglass is a reinforced plastic material made of glass fibers among other things. The result of using this material for construction is a light, durable service body such as the Durashell by Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies. Lighter service bodies provide more available pay load capacity weight and therefore, more storage. Lighter vehicles also create better fuel economy meaning significant savings for your fleet's operating costs. Durability is another significant advantage to having a fiberglass composite service body. They are able to flex without cracking and the material is corrosion resistant for more humid climates as well as when carrying hazardous chemicals such as pool supplies. Fiberglass composite service bodies tend to cost more than steel bodies, but make up for it in fuel economy and longevity. A Durashell service body, for example, will outlast multiple pickup trucks. Go to the Internet Special page at www.Fleetwest.net for tremendous savings on any new Durashell model now through July 5.

Steel Service Bodies
Steel costs less than fiberglass material, therefore steel service bodies are generally less expensive than fiberglass for the initial upfit cost. Although steel is heavier, many service bodies are now using aluminum components as well to reduce the weight such as the Load'N'Go Sportsman by Fleetwest (pictured below). Steel service bodies are often easier to repair with basic tools and the upkeep costs are relatively cheap. Heavy-duty steel is also durable and can handle a lot of wear and tear without causing damage. Powder coating protects steel service bodies, like the Load'N'Go, from corrosion and weather damage.

 

If you spend a lot of time on the road, the fuel savings that the lightweight Durashell provides will be worth the initial cost. If you are looking to save money initially, steel may be a better option. Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies provide both Load'N'Go 16-gauge steel service bodies and Durashell lightweight fiberglass composite service bodies. Both styles have models for short and long bed pickup trucks such as GMC, Ford, Chevy, and Dodge. Check out the Fit Guide at www.Fleetwest.net to find the model that best fits your pickup truck. The Load'N'Go and Durashell service bodies are all transferable with no-holes-drilled into your pickup truck for a longer life-cycle. Call your Fleetwest representative toll free for a quote or more information: 866-497-7200.

Service Truck Body of the Week

Durashell 170

The Durashell 170 by Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies is an excellent work truck service body or van alternative. 170 cubic feet of space provides plenty of secure storage room for tools, an a.c. unit, or shelving. Because the Durashell 170 is made of fiberglass composite, all that space does not come at the cost of a heavy service body. Durashells are the best of both worlds because they are rugged and light weight.

The Durashell is fully transferable with no holes drilled installation. This service body can move fully loaded from one pickup truck to another in minutes with either a forklift or optional lifting jacks. Transferability provides flexibility, a higher resell value of your pickup truck, and practically eliminates downtime.

Endless accessories are available to customize your Durashell such as shelves for storage, generators and A/C units, ladder racks, bench seating, roof vents and side doors, interior and exterior lights, shelf matting and floor liners. Call your Fleetwest representative toll free to get a quote on a Durashell 170 with accessories: 866-497-7200. 

**Now through July 5th Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies is running a special on all new Durashell models, including the Durashell 170. Click here to learn more or read this previous post.

Durashell Options

Ceiling Mount Storage/Lighting/A.C.

Shore Power Package

Barn Style Rear Doors with Windows

Generator Side Compartment with Slide

Outside Outlet

Exterior Light

Side Compartment Access

Road Side Assistance

New Service Body

The all new Load'N'Go service body by Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies is here! The Road Warrior has all the great benefits of the Load'N'Go fleet with added features custom fit for road side assistance.

• Transferability - The Load'N'Go Road Warrior slips on and off your pickup truck in minutes, fully loaded, with the use of built-in forklift tunnels or optional lifting jacks.
• Universal Fit - This service body and all other Load'N'Go Models fit the major makes of standard pickup trucks including Ford, Chevy, GMC, and Dodge.
• Added Features - An air hose reel, vented side compartment, and heavy duty mounting frame make the Load'N'Go Road Warrior ideal for aiding and assisting disabled motorists.

**Click here to see a 2 minute YouTube video demonstrating the installation of the new Load'N'Go Road Warrior with a forklift.

 

Call your Fleetwest representative toll free today to get more information on the Road Warrior and other Load'N'Go service bodies. 866-497-7200

Durashells For Sale

Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies is running an Independence Day special on all new Durashell models now through July 5th.

• Durashell service bodies are high quality and rugged, yet lightweight. Their fiberglass composite material makes them lighter than the competing service bodies which means lower fuel costs for you. 
• All new Durashell service bodies come with a ten year structural warranty, and will outlast multiple pickup trucks. Check out the life-cycle comparison for financial details.
• Durashell service bodies are fully transferable on and off your pickup truck in minutes with the use of built-in forklift tunnels or convenient optional lifting jacks.
• A dual dome light and third LED brake light ensure the safety of you and/or your technicians. A 100 percent extension, 1000 lb capacity slide can also be added for ease and increased safety of operation. Fleetwest offers many Durashell accessories for added benefits.
• Durashells range from 90 to 370 square feet of storage space, depending on the model. The DS170 (pictured below) has 170 square feet of storage space and fits all major long bed pickup trucks such as GMC, Ford, Dodge, and Chevy. To find a service body for your pickup truck, check out the interactive Fit Guide.

Durashell 170 with rear barn doors

Side doors for easy access

Lightweight fiberglass DS170

Call your Fleetwest representative for more information on the Durashell special toll free at 866-497-7200 or visit our website to get a quote.

Pickup Trucks and Weigh Stations

 DOT Pickup Truck Rules

For commercial truck drivers, weigh stations are a normal part of the job. They inspect the size, weight, and smoke emissions of every commercial vehicle, among other things. But for a truck driver who does not deal with weigh stations on a daily basis, or a business that primarily use cars and just recently added a truck to their fleet, the DOT process can be unfamiliar.
You need to stop at a weigh station if you drive:

• A commercial vehicle: defined as a vehicle used primarily for the transportation of property
• 1/2 and 3/4 ton pickup trucks are excluded from the weigh station unless they include a utility body (VC Section 471) in California
• If a commercial vehicle is over 10,000 lbs it must go through the weigh station (regardless of the cargo content)
• Cargo vans must stop at the weigh station

Commercial truck drivers must provide the DOT with documentation at the weigh station, even if they are remaining in-state. Documentations include:

• Proof of medical examinations
• Driver files and training documentation if applies
• Log of hours spent on the road
• An inspection of the vehicle should be done before and after the trip

The Department of Transportation is pushing to use more virtual weigh stations as a way to make the process more efficient. How can you avoid the weigh station all together?

Transferability Changes Everything

Transferability:
Pickup trucks with bolt-on utility bodies are required to stop at the weigh stations in some states, including California. Fleetwest Transferable Truck Bodies are not bolted on. Drivers with Load'N'Go service bodies are able to by-pass the weigh stations, saving time and avoiding the documentation process noted above. Durashell service bodies by Fleetwest are a great van alternative and can also save you from the weigh station process because they are not bolted onto the bed of your pickup truck. Avoiding weigh stations is another reason transferability adds value to your work truck.

Call your Fleetwest representative toll-free at 866-497-7200 to get a quote.