Isuzu Circle of Excellence Smart Deals

CHOOSING THE RIGHT BUCKET / BOOM TRUCK

You’ve been assigned the difficult task of purchasing a new bucket / boom truck to add to your fleet. What kind of considerations should you make before making the investment? Whether you’re a new company or first time buyer this post should help make this task easier.

Your First Step

Who in the field is going to be using the truck? You need to make sure the right people are involved in the decision making, not just those who make the financial decisions, so that all the correct specifications are met.

Requirements

What are your requirements? Are you planning on using it for construction, electrical, forestry, building maintenance, company signage, or a multitude of vocations? Do you already have trucks in your fleet? How is this going to help you accomplish your goals? Do you need multiple people up in the air? Do you need to lift equipment or materials up to the basket? Taking some time to make a checklist can save you from frustration after the purchase.

Considerations

Knowing the height you need to reach as well as how close you can actually get horizontally is paramount. For example, imagine you own a bucket with a 42′ reach but you have to park your truck 10′ from a light pole so you don’t block traffic. If the light pole is 39′ tall you wouldn’t be able to reach it.

Another consideration is the type of chassis to pair with your bucket. If the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is greater than 26,000 lb. your drivers will require a commercial drivers license (CDL). The weight of the chassis also affects your reach and payload; most light duty chassis can only have a maximum reach of 32′ while a medium duty chassis can have up a 40′ reach or greater.

Body Types

Now that you have selected the proper bucket its time to select the correct body to pair it with. Bodies can be open, enclosed, have utility doors, as well as be made of steel, aluminum, or fiberglass. If you plan on storing tools, materials, or other equipment in or on the body means you need to have the proper storage space.

Final Words

Taking your time, knowing your requirements, being considerate, and picking the proper body type before you choose your next bucket truck will help save you time and money. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to give us a call and ask one of our knowledgeable staff for help.

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