Low availability of service vans has pushed many industries to look for alternatives to store tools and equipment. Two popular options are utility beds and service bodies, and the differences between them matter more than they might seem.
Key Takeaways
- A service body is enclosed with multiple compartments; a utility bed is an open platform with fewer storage options.
- Service bodies offer more security and storage but can’t accept bulk or oversized items the way a utility bed can.
- SpaceKap service bodies are transferable to any model pickup truck, unlike most utility bed setups.
What’s the actual difference between a service body and a utility bed?
Service bodies and utility beds are two different types of truck bodies. A service body is typically enclosed, with many compartments and storage areas inside, while a utility bed is an open truck body with fewer storage options.
Both are designed to work with trucks, but the differences matter. A service body is a box that sits either on the frame of the work truck or directly on the pickup’s regular bed, used to carry tools or other equipment, and can come in open or enclosed styles. A utility bed is a platform body that sits on the truck’s frame and is used to carry cargo.
What are the real pros and cons of each option?
Service Body
Pros:
- More secure than a utility bed
- More durable than a utility bed
- More storage space than a utility bed
- Installation is typically less expensive
Cons:
- Can’t accept bulk or large items
- Removing the body from the truck requires special equipment and tools
Utility Bed
Pros:
- Can sometimes cost less upfront than a service body
- Can haul cargo, tools, and other bulk materials
- Easier to install and remove
Cons:
- Often needs additional features like a bed liner and toolbox to be genuinely effective
- Less comfortable to work from than a service body
- Doesn’t offer the same level of storage space
What should actually decide the choice for your business?
The most important considerations when choosing between a service body or utility bed are budget, tools and equipment, truck compatibility, advertising space, and field of work.
Budget
The price difference between a service body and a utility bed can be significant, so a clear budget for both is worth working out up front. SpaceKap service bodies are fuel-efficient, highly durable, and designed for easy installation, which helps offset the upfront cost over time.
Tools and Equipment
Having enough space for tools like ladders, saws, and drills matters, and those tools need to stay accessible, which is what service bodies and their side compartments are built for. A service body is the better option for carrying a lot of tools and equipment, while a utility bed works better for transporting large items.
Pickup Truck Compatibility
Compatibility with a specific pickup truck matters. SpaceKap service bodies are transferable to any model of pickup truck, which saves time and labor and makes it possible to move larger quantities of goods over the life of the unit.
Advertising
Service bodies usually offer more surface area for advertising, since they tend to sit taller than a utility bed. That makes them a stronger option for a company that wants its branding to make an impact on the road.
Field of Work
Each field of work has different needs. A service body is a strong fit for tradespeople who need to carry tools and equipment securely, while a utility bed suits businesses that mainly need to transport large items.
Which option is actually best for your business?
The best transportation option depends on the specific needs of the industry. SpaceKap service bodies are a strong alternative to a service or cargo van, with a range of models available. Speak to a SpaceKap expert to find the best choice for a specific job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a service body carry bulk or oversized items like a utility bed can?
No. Service bodies can’t accept bulk or large items the way an open utility bed can, though they offer more security and storage for tools.
Is a SpaceKap service body transferable between trucks?
Yes. SpaceKap service bodies are transferable to any model pickup truck, unlike most utility bed setups.
Which is better for branding: a service body or a utility bed?
A service body typically offers more surface area for advertising, since it sits taller than a utility bed.
See it on real trucks
Spacekap units in service with our customers.
