SECTION FEATURE

Aerial devices are getting more capable, but the chassis and payload supporting them aren’ t unlimited.

gross vehicle weight rating( GVWR) as a consideration for utility fleets.

“ Lots of utility companies like to keep truck chassis under 26,000 GVWR so that their end users don ' t need a commercial driver ' s license and all the expenses that go along with that,” noted Marc San Paolo, supply chain manager for Royal Truck Body.“ Chassis that require license endorsements are also significantly more expensive and carry a significantly higher total cost of ownership.”

As jobsites require more tools and materials and aerial devices grow in capacity, a smaller, lighter body may not seem like the obvious choice. But with limited space, body design also has to make sure the right equipment is where crews need it, when they need it.

Every Inch at Work

With smaller and lighter bodies, it becomes increasingly important to maximize the amount of space given and put the right equipment in the right place. Service bodies today are coming out with adjustable, modular systems, dedicated compartments, and even storage in the bumper in order to utilize the capacity.

The Stellar TMAX offers a good visual example, featuring aluminum construction, infinitely adjustable shelving, drill-free mounting rails, and additional tool storage and control panel mounting.

“ Built around the needs of demanding service applications, the TMAX combines organized storage, accessible compartments, and integrated service capabilities to help crews carry the tools, parts, and equipment they need directly to the jobsite,” Lammer said.

Royal Truck Body offers 9- and 11-foot steel models with removable tote trays, hotstick storage, grip-strut steps, and Line-X cargo areas and compartments.

According to PALFINGER, making

aerial trucks easier and more efficient to use in the field, as well as improving organization and equipment protection, are becoming increasingly important when improving functionality.

“ For PALFINGER, that includes features such as barn-door-style compartment openings, which allow crews to access multiple compartments from one position without having to move around open doors to get to an adjacent compartment,” Wutzke explained.“ It is a simple design improvement, but one that can make a meaningful difference when crews need fast access to tools, parts, or safety equipment.”

Altec takes a more specialized approach with its FBR-144D, which pairs an Altec Capstan with a Deweze XRT bed for reel transport in telecom and utility applications. The bed uses a parallel squeeze reel loading

Skyjack’ s new models all provide the same simple, reliable choice for rental.

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Equipment Guide- October 2026 l 9