A service body, also called a utility body, gives tools and parts their own side compartments. A flatbed provides an open deck for materials and equipment. A CM Tradesman combines compartment storage with gooseneck towing. Compare your daily load, tool access and trailer needs before choosing the body.
We sell and install work truck bodies in Wayne, Oklahoma. Tell us what your crew carries and tows, and we can help you compare body options for your truck.
- Service Body: Tools organized and accessible. For service calls and crews working from their truck.
- Traditional Flatbed: Open deck space for materials. For pallets, equipment and loads that need open access.
- Hybrid Gooseneck Service Body: Tool storage plus gooseneck towing. For tools on the truck and equipment on the trailer.
Service body vs. flatbed comparison
Compare how each body stores tools, carries material and fits the work your crew does.
| What matters | Service body | Flatbed | Tradesman |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tools and parts | Full-height side compartments. Available flip-top compartments and dividers help organize small parts. | Underbody boxes on skirted models, plus storage configured around the load. | Low-profile side compartments combine tool storage with a gooseneck-oriented layout. |
| Loading materials | Cargo space between side compartments. Optional overhead racks for long material and ladders. | Open deck and tie-down points for bulk material and forklift loading. | Center deck and rear access for bulkier loads. Check the opening against your regular cargo. |
| Gooseneck towing | No gooseneck hitch option on the CM CMG. Compare a Tradesman for this use. | Available with an integrated gooseneck hitch and safety-chain hooks. | Integrated gooseneck hitch and safety-chain hooks. |
| Typical jobs | Mechanic trucks, service calls and tool-intensive field work. | Trailer hauling, pallets and large cargo. | Tools on the truck and jobsite equipment on the trailer. |
Below are examples of real builds we worked with customers to spec. Use them to discuss the body, storage and accessories your crew needs.
Service bodies for tools and field repairs
Choose a service body when your crew needs regular access to tools, fittings and replacement parts. Our CM CMG service body offers compartment and storage options for this work.
- Separate the equipment. Side compartments give tool cases, small parts and repair supplies their own space.
- Plan for the small items. Ask us about flip-top compartments, dividers and locking options.
- Check the center cargo area. Measure pumps, cabinets or other bulky equipment that must ride between the compartments.
- Include long materials. Discuss a suitable overhead rack for ladders or stock.
A good starting point for: mechanics, utility repair crews, plumbers and other service teams.
Explore our CM CMG service body
Flatbeds for materials and equipment
Choose a flatbed when open deck space and loading access drive the body decision.
- Load bulky cargo. Plan the deck around pallets, equipment and the material you haul regularly.
- Keep loading access clear. Position boxes and rails around the way your forklift or crew approaches the truck.
- Add storage where it helps. Compare skirted models with underbody boxes and other toolbox arrangements.
- Include towing needs. Tell us about your trailer so we can discuss a suitable hitch and bed configuration.
A good starting point for: contractors, material deliveries and equipment hauling.
CM Tradesman bodies for storage and towing
Compare a CM Tradesman when you need enclosed tool storage and gooseneck towing on the same truck.
- Keep tools onboard. Integrated, lockable compartments provide storage for tools, straps and jobsite equipment.
- Check trailer clearance. Confirm clearance with the exact body, trailer and hitch setup.
- Use the center deck. Compare the cargo opening and rear access with the loads you carry.
- Choose the right layout. Compare the CM TM and CM TM DLX (Deluxe). The TM DLX adds expanded storage; we can help you compare compartment layouts against the tools your crew carries.
A good starting point for: crews carrying repair tools while towing equipment to the job.
Explore our CM TM Tradesman · Compare the CM TM DLX
Complete your build.
The body is the starting point. Tell us what else the truck needs to carry, load or lift.
Tool storage
Give tools and small parts a place with toolboxes, drawer systems and vehicle organization equipment.
Service truck cranes
Discuss lifting and positioning needs early so the crane and truck can be planned together.
Liftgates
Consider a liftgate when loading and unloading at delivery or service stops is part of the daily job.
We sell and install these product lines. Available configurations depend on the body, chassis and work requirements. Ask us to include suitable options in your quote.
Bring the truck details and the job.
You can start before every measurement is ready. Share what you know, and we can work through the rest.
- Your truck: year, make, model, VIN and current body.
- Your crew’s equipment: tools, cases, supplies and your regular cargo.
- Your trailer: hitch type and what it normally carries.
- Your loading routine: forklift access, manual loading and delivery stops.
- Your add-ons: storage, racks, lifting equipment and other requirements.
- A few photos: your current setup and anything you want to improve.
Before ordering, have the exact body, chassis, equipment and working load checked together. The finished setup must stay within the truck’s applicable payload, axle and towing ratings. Refer to your vehicle’s manufacturer guidance, including Ford’s towing and payload guidance where applicable.
What affects the installed cost?
A useful quote covers the complete upfit. Compare the body model, material and size alongside the work needed to fit your truck.
- Body and installation: identify the model, mounting work, wiring and any existing-bed removal.
- Storage and accessories: separate the equipment your crew needs now from optional additions.
- Work requirements: include towing, loading and lifting needs so the quote covers the intended setup.
Ask us to confirm availability, installation scope and scheduling for your specific build.
Common questions
Which body should I compare for gooseneck towing?
Start with a suitably equipped flatbed or a CM Tradesman. If enclosed tool storage is also central to the job, put the Tradesman on your shortlist.
Can I add toolboxes to a flatbed?
Yes. We can discuss storage options and placement around your regular load. Bring the tool list and show us how you load the truck.
Does a flatbed always leave more payload?
Compare the actual body and installed equipment on your truck. Body style alone does not establish the finished truck’s available payload.
Can you work on an existing truck?
Our work truck services include bed swaps, existing-bed repairs and electrical fixes. Tell us what you have and what needs to change.
