Any business that relies on a fleet of vehicles must find the best way to transport its supplies.

Open bodies and enclosed bodies are two popular options. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one for your truck is important.

While enclosed bodies offer protection from theft and weather, it can be hard to reach gear stored in the back without well-designed compartments.

Open bodies offer easy access to gear, but they are more exposed.

Choosing a Truck Body

When choosing a truck body, there are two main options you can opt between.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages that will serve you differently, so choosing the option that best meets your needs is important.

Ultimately, your best choice will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Benefits of an Enclosed Service Body

When outfitting a truck with a utility body, there are many options to choose from. One option is enclosed, which offers several features unavailable in other types of utility bodies.

1. First, it provides a secure cargo area that can be used to store valuable items. It helps to protect supplies and materials from theft and damage and keeps them organized and readily accessible.
2. Second, it can help improve a truck’s fuel economy by reducing wind resistance. The utility body can create a more aerodynamic shape for your vehicle.
3. Finally, it provides a higher level of security for the occupants of a truck by keeping them protected from the elements.

As a result, this type of utility body is an ideal choice for many types of trucks and vehicles.

Benefits of an Open Service Body For Truck Bodies

A hollow body offers several benefits for both personal and commercial applications.

1. Perhaps the most obvious advantage is increased utility, as open truck beds provide easy access to items in the cargo area.
2. In addition, they tend to be lighter than closed models, which can improve fuel efficiency.
3. And for those who frequently haul larger items, an open service body can provide better visibility and easier loading and unloading.

Whether you’re a contractor, plumber, or landscaper, an open service body can help you get the job done more efficiently.

How to Decide Which Is Best for You and Your Business

Deciding whether to purchase an enclosed utility body or an open utility body for your truck is a big decision.

Each has its pros and cons that you’ll need to consider to make the best decision for you and your business.

Enclosed Service Bodies

• More Security:
  • When you have tools you need to transport from one job site to another, you want to ensure they are secure.
  • Even if your gear is locked up, it can still be vulnerable to theft if it’s in an open bed.
  • With an enclosed body, your equipment will be hidden from view inside compartments and more difficult for thieves to access.
• Protection From the Elements
  • A covered body can protect from the weather, keeping your equipment in good condition for longer.
• More Aerodynamic
  • They are more aerodynamic than an open cargo area and reduce drag and fuel consumption while improving performance.
• More Expensive
  • They tend to be more expensive to purchase and maintain, and they can limit your visibility while driving.

Open Service Bodies

• Less Expensive and Better Visibility
  • They tend to be less expensive and offer more visibility.
  • An open cargo area lets you see everything inside, making it easy to find what you need.
• Easier to load and unload
  • Open truck bodies are ideal for those who regularly transport large or bulky items to and from storage.
  • Unlike a closed utility body, which will have side compartments that make it difficult to reach tools stored inside, open utility bodies provide clear and easy access to everything stored inside.

When making your decision for your fleet, be sure to weigh all of these factors carefully to ensure that you choose the best option.

Materials

One often overlooked factor is material. Picking the right material can help make your fleet more climate-adapted.

Aluminum

Aluminum service bodies are lighter and more corrosion-resistant than their steel counterparts. It makes them ideal for use in coastal areas or other environments where corrosion is a concern.

They are also more dent-resistant, which can be helpful if you regularly transport heavy equipment.

Steel

Steel utility bodies are more durable and provide more space for storage than aluminum ones. They are also typically less expensive, making them a good option if you’re on a budget.

Ultimately, the best material for your service body depends on your specific needs and application.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass service bodies are a great choice for pickup trucks. They’re lightweight yet durable and won’t rust or corrode in wet or salty conditions. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain.

Outfitting Your Truck with Service Bodies

Bodies are a great option for businesses that need to haul equipment or tools. There are two types of service bodies available on the market. Each type has its perks and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider what you will be using your truck body for before making a purchase.

An enclosed utility body will offer more protection from the weather and can help keep your cargo safe with its enclosure.

Open bodies, for example, provide easier access to your gear and can be cheaper to purchase. Whatever you choose during your search, ensure you outfit it with quality electrical components like crates and enclosures to keep your tool and gear powered up and protected while on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are truck bodies better than trailers?

It often makes sense not to pick a trailer because of fuel efficacy concerns.

Are bodies hard to install?

No, they can be installed quickly by anyone.

Can they handle off-roading?

Yes, this gear transport solution works on any terrain.