Thanks to the cargo van shortage, some trades are turning to box trucks to fill out and maintain their fleets. While less fuel efficient and not as easy to maneuver, box trucks can serve as viable work vehicle replacements.
The most significant selling point of using box trucks is their massive cargo space compared to standard work vans. Outfitted with the right cargo management system, crews can stay organized and efficient, helping them complete more jobs each day.
Messer recently completed a box truck cargo management system for Discount Drains, a plumber serving the Columbus area. The installed components are detailed below.
Adrian Steel Cargo Management Components
Hybrid Adjustable Shelving Units
Two 44-in. hybrid adjustable shelves were installed on either side of the box truck’s cargo area. These shelves offer excellent weight capacity:
- Top Shelf: 75 lbs.
- Middle Two Shelves: 100 lbs.
- Bottom Shelf: 125 lbs.
All shelves are 14 inches deep and adjustable by removing the front bolts. They can be slid up and down in one-inch increments.
Portable Bins
Messer installed 12-inch storage bins in the middle and lower shelves to keep tools and parts organized. The bins use the shelf’s 2-in. lip to secure in place during transport, but can be easily taken out on a job site creating fewer trips in and out of the truck. These bins are made of a strong, durable composite material.
In the case of Discount Drains, the bins are used to sort and organize drain parts and accessories that may be required on a job.
5-Bar Spool Holder
A spool holder was affixed to the side of one shelving unit, giving crews access to up to 5 spools of wire or other material.
By lifting the spool bar up and out of its slot, crews can easily replace or change out spools as needed.
Conduit Carriers
Conduit carriers were installed above the shelving. Thanks to the box truck’s height, we could stack two carriers above the shelving units, which isn’t possible in most cargo vans.
Conduit carriers are available in 10.5-ft and 12.5-ft lengths with 4-in. or 6-in. end caps.
The installed carriers in this truck are made of PVC.
Cab Partition
Depending on the box truck you purchase, the cab may be connected to the cargo area. If this is the case, a partition can be installed with a door crews can use to access the cargo area.
This is ideal for accessing cargo in the cold or rain and keeping the cargo area warm on cold days.
In this case, a sliding door was installed to keep passengers safe from shifting cargo during transit.
Considering a Box Truck
If you’re considering using box trucks, check out this resource we published with links to sites our customers have used to find good deals — Used box trucks for trade fleets.
Project Turnaround
Messer’s team turned around this project in 2 days.
