{"id":9776,"date":"2021-02-12T10:10:56","date_gmt":"2021-02-12T09:10:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/?p=9776"},"modified":"2021-02-12T10:11:55","modified_gmt":"2021-02-12T09:11:55","slug":"upfitting-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/2021\/02\/12\/upfitting-2\/","title":{"rendered":"What You Need to Know About Upfitting"},"content":{"rendered":"

Photo courtesy of DECKED<\/em><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

DECKED’s low-profile truck bed tool box system is compatible with Ford F-150, Ford F-250, Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan pickup trucks along with the Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Nissan NV van models. The ergonomic toolbox slides out tools, gear, and other items in heavy-duty drawers at waist height while still allowing the owner full use of their truck or van bed. DECKED Storage Systems are easy to install or remove, weatherproof, secure, ergonomic, and made in the USA.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Upfitting a work truck can be a balancing act. You need to select the right equipment to go with the vehicle, and the right upfitting partner to ensure the work is done correctly. And, this is after you\u2019ve gone through all the options and selected the right truck.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

We talked to subject-matter experts about what fleet managers should know about the upfitting process, how early they should start planning, and why it\u2019s important to stay realistic about fleet vehicles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Start Early<\/span><\/h3>\n

In the cycle of purchasing vehicles and preparing them for service, it may make sense to focus on the vehicle first and upfitting second. But planning for both at the same time can make the process easier in the long run.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

Craig Bonham, vice president, commercial vehicle for Safe Fleet, noted that fleet managers must balance needs and budget, but communication with the vendor can help ease the process.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is important for the vehicle, when finished, to have the ability to contain, stop, and move the load effectively, efficiently, and safely. Therefore, consultation with chassis manufacturer, body manufacturer, and the installation services site is key in the overall decision of the vehicle,\u201d Bonham said. \u201cA lot of times, unfortunately, fleet managers are put in a difficult position because they are tasked with meeting a budget. Only to find out the vehicle was built to the budget and does not meet the performance expectations for the vehicle.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When spec\u2019ing a vehicle, planning for the added weight of upfits is an important consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe biggest mistake or misconception fleet managers generally make is not considering the total payload capacity, not just the GVWR as it relates to a fully upfit and driver-loaded vehicle,\u201d noted Julie Allen, business development manager \u2013 fleet for Ranger Design. \u201cWhile the GVWR helps determine capacity, the actual vehicle weight needs to be subtracted to determine the true payload capacity. If the same work can be done in a smaller body utilizing a custom upfit solution, then it will improve overall fuel efficiency while reducing wear and tear on the vehicle.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

According to Chris Rolsen, national fleet business development manager for Knapheide, as specs are planned, it would also be an excellent time to connect with your upfitting partner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGrowing up in a military household, I learned that if you are 15 minutes early, you are on time, and if you are on time, then you are late. I turn that same mindset toward fleet customers and try to discuss when they need the units and take that into account with planning the upfitting cycle, so it falls in line with that need. If the customer can order the chassis and initiate the upfit order simultaneously, that makes for a better and more realistic planning goal for them,\u201d Rolsen explained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Specializing<\/span>
\n

Specializing in tailored upfits, Utilimaster Upfit Services works with businesses to custom design and upfit vehicles to deliver solutions for specific business needs. <\/span>Photo courtesy of Spartan Motors<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Consider the Job<\/span><\/h3>\n

Of course, specific jobs require certain tools. It\u2019s important to think about what\u2019s going into your truck and how it will be stored.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor example, knowing what types of products are going inside the truck bed helps us determine how tall the cap must be. Next, if we know up front that we are going to need access from the sides, we can ask the necessary questions to determine what type of access. Will we need storage? If storage is a must, then we can look at shelving mechanisms and decide if simple storage is enough or if we need to upgrade to be more modular,\u201d explained Fred Bournay, senior category manager for Truck Accessories Group.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another item to consider is a rack system.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf the truck is carrying anything on top, we will need to look at a simple or fixed access system. If the truck will not be carrying anything on top and the answers to those other questions are negotiable, then a durable, retractable tonneau cover might better fit the truck owner\u2019s needs,\u201d Bournay added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"The<\/span>
\n

The DCC-MT3 is LEER\u2019s first all-aluminum truck cover with modular tool box capability. It offers optional modular toolboxes with adjustable shelf, divider, and attachment features. Wider, taller side-access doors offer up to 29% more entry space, and the reinforced cage structure is 17% stronger than the standard cap. <\/span>Photo courtesy of Truck Accessories Group<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Consider the Drivers – All of Them<\/span><\/h3>\n

It isn\u2019t just about tools and cargo, either. Fleet managers should consider the people who are using the tools and accessing the cargo.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdding doors to partitions so the driver doesn\u2019t have to get out of the vehicle to access their equipment or utilizing rear-facing shelves for easy access from outside the vehicle could make a world of difference to the technician. Good upfits equal happy drivers,\u201d said Ashley Partain, marketing manager for Masterack.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s important to emphasize the needs of all drivers, instead of assuming that all drivers are one group with one singular set of needs. In reality, these needs may vary depending on the person, their routes, and their location.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust because a fleet is doing similar jobs, doesn\u2019t mean they all have the same needs. Consider people who work in cities as well as those in more suburban or rural areas. There may be some big differences in how they work if they have to park on busy streets or long distances away from the job site,\u201d said Partain from Masterack.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sometimes these changes can be subtle, which is why seeing how the trucks are used firsthand can be beneficial.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cToday\u2019s upfits are highly specialized to meet unique vocational needs, and a lot of efficiencies can be realized from designs that are engineered from the vantage of the day-to-day driver experience,\u201d said Chad Heminover, president, fleet vehicles and services for Spartan Motors. \u201cLittle changes, such as moving a shelf from left to right or adding extra lights can add substantial changes when taken as a whole.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It may seem like a hassle, but planning for those little details can pay off in the long run. A small inconvenience for the driver can turn into a big one when faced multiple times a day or week.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo two fleets are the same, and no two drivers utilize their vehicles in the same way or for the same purpose,\u201d said Allen from Ranger Design. \u201cTrying to make something work will likely end up not working for the driver, which means more time spent every time the driver has to go into the back of the van looking for tools or supplies. All this extra time spent trying to work around a non-functioning upfit is driver downtime and lost revenue.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ranger<\/span>
\n

Ranger Design\u2019s Max Rack 2.0 is an evolved drop-down ladder rack for high-roof cargo vans that offers tradesmen easy access to their ladders. Loading and unloading is a smooth, single stage process that brings the ladder down within reach of the technician. Max Rack 2.0 is designed so there\u2019s no need to stand below the rack to operate. Another enhanced safety feature is its low-roof profile, designed to reduce the chances of catching any low-hanging objects such as drive-thru signs or tree branches. It\u2019s built from military-grade aluminum, making it rust-free and anti-corrosive no matter what the climate, and able to carry both extension and step ladders. <\/span>Photo courtesy of Ranger Design<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Be Realistic<\/span><\/h3>\n

Planning for the job and the driver is one thing, but fleet managers must also remember that jobs aren\u2019t always done in the exact same way \u2014 and should be realistic when considering how trucks will be used.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe better fleet managers see the big picture \u2014 that the fleet represents the company and the drivers as a whole,\u201d said Jeff Haag, global director of fleet sales for DECKED. \u201cMany times, decisions are made with only the initial vehicle cost in mind. They forget that if the driver gets hurt on the drive, or they break a part or a tool, that the cost will negatively affect the company\u2019s bottom line \u2014 not to mention the effect on the drive\/family if they get hurt. An upfit that protects drivers is of the utmost importance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Part of planning for these occurrences is choosing upfits that consider these events.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEnsuring the product \u2014 shelving, flooring, ladder and cargo racks, and partition \u2014 have been crash- and pull-tested by the manufacturer will reduce the overall potential risk associated with driver usage and impact shifts. In the event of a vehicle collision, fleet managers should have confidence the product in the van is not going to come loose from the walls and floor of the vehicle. Building a product which can hold up to heavy loads and usage will also decrease the risk of product failure,\u201d said Allen from Ranger Design.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Knapheide<\/span>
\n

Knapheide works with partners such as The Davey Tree Experts to come up with solutions and product designs to fit their needs. This is a newly built and upfitted Knapheide Forestry Body on a Ford F-550 chassis. This 24-yard-capacity body has a modified safety cone holder in the front, a coal tar-lined interior, a standard L pack forestry compartment design, and an extreme security forestry package. <\/span>Photo courtesy of Knapheide<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Think About the Big Picture<\/span><\/h3>\n

Fleet managers must remember to consider all costs when choosing the right upfit. It might make sense to design that truck that your driver needs now, but fleet managers should also consider the future, whether that driver\u2019s job will change, or if the truck will be sold down the road.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlways consider costs beyond acquisition cost such as total cost of ownership, replacement cycle, failure rates, and effect on insurance, fuel consumption, corrosion, and lastly but most importantly, safety,\u201d said Bonham of Safe Fleet.<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition, not planning for human error or environmental factors such as natural disasters can hurt the bottom line.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA one-size-fits-all approach may provide initial cost savings, but it may be much more expensive over the life of the fleet. Routine maintenance aside, we see driver inefficiencies that can result from poorly selected upfit designs that add up over the course of weeks, months, years,\u201d explained Heminover from Spartan Motors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fleet managers interested in maximizing resale value should consider an upfit that would help maintain or enhance the vehicle\u2019s value.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRanger Design makes products that work with the vehicle manufacturer holes and frame support system. This minimizes the amount of aftermarket drilling into the body, reduces the amount of aftermarket fasteners, and drastically cuts down on installation hours. A product that can be fit and installed with minimal additional fabrication to the body of the vehicle ultimately decreases the total cost of ownership. These vehicles typically get a higher return when going through fleet resale channels as well as allowing the fleet managers to re-purpose the shelving into new vehicles coming into their fleet,\u201d said Allen from Ranger Design.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Safe<\/span>
\n

Safe Fleet\u2019s American Van brand offers interior storage solutions for work vans, which can include shelving, drawers, and removable bins. <\/span>Photo courtesy of Safe Fleet<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Do Your Research<\/span><\/h3>\n

Ultimately, every fleet has different needs. A good upfit can change from year to year, which is why it\u2019s important to stay informed and start fresh with every new order.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen moving trucks through the system, there might be a tendency to go with the ways things have always been upfitted; however, asking a vendor to consider how we can help improve productivity could lead to avoiding a cookie-cutter approach and thinking bigger picture about how a truck can be used most efficiently,\u201d said Bournay of Truck Accessories Group.<\/span><\/p>\n

A knowledgeable and experienced upfitting partner will help ensure a reliable upfit, but fleet managers should stay involved in the process and do some outside research to supplement the upfitter\u2019s advice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCommunicate and don\u2019t be afraid to talk directly to the company representing the upfit. Don\u2019t just take the word of whoever is suggesting certain upfit. Do your homework and think safety,\u201d noted Haag from DECKED.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is why it\u2019s important to choose an upfitter you feel comfortable communicating with.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe main thing fleet managers should keep in mind is finding the right balance with the right upfit partner. Look for someone who has your best interests in mind and puts a heavy focus on the partnership aspect when it comes to upfitting,\u201d said Rolsen from Knapheide.<\/span><\/p>\n

If fleet managers are unsure about whether they\u2019re choosing the right upfitter, it doesn\u2019t hurt to ask.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA good upfit company will have the tools to make minor shop adjustments to the product which will reduce the order to delivery (wheels on ground) time,\u201d said Allen of Ranger Design. \u201cLook for upfit companies who value their manufacturer relationship, ask questions, and are able to help educate you as the buyer of their services. Most importantly, ask your upfitter what their average lead times are and if they are willing to provide you with contact information of their existing clients. \u00a0These client references will provide the best insight on the upfitter\u2019s response time, capabilities, warranty requests, and understanding of the product.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\n

 <\/p>\n

by Roselynne Reyes<\/a><\/p>\n

Source: \u00a0Work Truck Online<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

CUT COTS OF THE FLEET WITH OUR AUDIT PROGRAM<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

The audit is a key tool to know the overall status and provide the analysis, the assessment, the advice, the suggestions and the actions to take in order to cut costs and increase the efficiency and efficacy of the fleet. We propose the following fleet management audit.<\/p>\n

FLEET MANAGEMENT AUDIT<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Photo courtesy of DECKED DECKED’s low-profile truck bed tool box system is compatible with Ford F-150, Ford F-250, Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan pickup trucks along with the Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Nissan NV van models. The ergonomic toolbox slides…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":9777,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[18],"tags":[354],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9776"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9776"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9776\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9779,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9776\/revisions\/9779"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9777"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9776"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9776"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advancedfleetmanagementconsulting.com\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9776"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}