Fleet Operators Save 28% In Equipment Costs By Using Multiple Bodies On Single Straight Truck Chassis
- Summer 2001

Many fleet owners across the country are discovering a unique way to control costs associated with operating straight truck fleets. The demountable body system allows a single straight truck chassis to use multiple, interchangeable bodies. The system, manufactured by Demountable Concepts, has helped hundreds of companies in different industries save on fleet and labor costs.

For most system users, having a second body to load into while the driver is out making deliveries generates significant savings. If a company uses typical non-CDL straight trucks, overtime or even a second shift is generally required for loading late returning trucks. Often, companies will operate two trucks for every driver. This eliminates the overtime or second shift, but it greatly increases fleet operating costs. With the demountable body system, each driver is assigned his own vehicle and never waits for his next load.

Another benefit of the demountable system is utilizing different body types on the same chassis. If an operator has requirements for a van body and flat bed, two chassis are generally purchased. Even if one of these vehicles sits mostly idle, it is still required to meet specific customer needs. With the demountable body system, one chassis can be a van body in the morning and a flat bed in the afternoon, all for a fraction of the price of two trucks. 

The following example shows realistic savings by using the demountable body system when both flat bed and van bodies are required. Prices are approximate. 

The initial cash outlay is $26,000 less with the demountable system than investing in a two-truck fleet. Fleet operating costs (insurance, registration, maintenance) will be slashed by 50% with the demountable system as well.

Not only are fleet equipment and operating costs lower, but warehouse overtime and product damage are also reduced because material can be directly loaded into freestanding bodies. Industries that have benefited from the demountable truck body system include window manufacturers, lumber dealers, millwork distributors, furniture retailers, janitorial supply companies, party rental companies, pipe and water treatment companies, nurseries and many more.