Landscape Trucks: Open v. Enclosed

It’s landscape season and landscape crews are hard at work this time of year.  With that hard work comes the potential for new wheels! But before you rush out and purchase a new landscape truck for your business, take time to consider your options from all angles. Because we know your business needs are unique, we’ve assembled some areas of consideration to help you narrow down your choices.

SIZE OF TRUCK BED AND CAB - Ask These Questions First!

1. How much weight do I need to be able to haul? Add up the total weight of all the tools, mowers, fuel cans, blowers, trimmers, etc to get this total. This number will affect which class truck best matches your usage needs so be sure to consider all factors. 
2. How much flat floor space is needed?  The easiest way to determine this is to create a 14’ x 92” rectangle using string, tape or line (this is standard landscape body flat floor dimension). Arrange your equipment to fit in the space, as if you were entering from the narrow end.  Note that the front lockable box comes in two variations and most put the deck of the first mower under this two-foot ledge.  If you have excess, you can save money through a shorter wheelbase chassis.  If you need more space - no worries, expand the length up to 18 feet (this will require a longer wheelbase).
3. What is my crew size?  The price difference between a crew cab and a standard cab is less of a factor as resale values are higher on crew cabs and the overall price is $80 a month (based on five-year term finance in most cases).  But if your lot is space-limited or your crew size is 2-3, the standard cab is best.

SAFETY

When deciding between open versus enclosed trucks, make sure to factor in theft deterrent. Models from Box Van and Vanscape feature an internal dovetail while Lawn Box features an external ramp and gate. Another consideration in the realm of safety is debris management. Which can become more of an issue depending on what you are hauling, how far you need to go, and if the truck will often be taken on the highway. 

ACCESS 

If you are consistently in need of side access or multi-use models, an open lawn care body may be the best fit for you. But that’s not to say there aren’t good models with double swing and single swing side doors for pallet loading. It’s just a matter of how convenient you need that side access to be. 

ADVERTISING

A huge perk of a box van is its ability to act as a mobile billboard for your business both at the job site and on the road. This built-in advertising will save your ad budget a pretty penny and is guaranteed to make the rounds around your local community. 

PURCHASE TIMELINE

The question of how soon you need to purchase a new landscape truck will be an important factor in the buying process. Open lawncare bodies are measured in days, but box vans are measured in weeks or in some cases, months. 

Still feeling unsure? Never fear, the Lee-Smith sales staff is available to answer all your questions and work with you to ensure that your next truck meets your business needs. We highly recommend an in-person meeting or a video call. The Sales Team is available Monday-Friday for appointments: (423) 622 - 4161