5 Things to Ask Before You Spec Your Next Custom Built Wrecker
Whether this is your first time or the hundredth time working with a custom heavy duty tow truck manufacturer to specify the ideal addition to your fleet, it’s important to touch base and review the basics of what you should be inquiring about when communicating with the manufacturer.
The truth is, it’s easy to get caught up in the bells and whistles of the build, and overlook the basics. When you clarify the following questions with your manufacturing partner, you’re able to make sure that your expectations are being met (or even exceeded), and that the quality that you are expecting from your final wrecker is consistent.
5 Questions to Touch On with Your Custom Built Wrecker Manufacturer
If your chosen manufacturer cannot answer the following questions and clearly convey the value of their process, it might be time to consider a switch:
- What is your structural warranty?
- What can be customized on my wrecker?
- How much work do you outsource?
- What is included in the price of the wrecker?
- When can I expect the completed wrecker?
We’ve outlined some additional considerations to be mindful of when communicating with your manufacturer.
1. Warranty
Savvy tow business owners know to not accept anything less than a 10 year structural warranty on their new custom built wrecker.
When inquiring about the warranty on your new truck, if the warranty does not meet this standard, it’s worth being cognizant of unforeseen consequences down the line.
It also should tell you that the manufacturer does not have your business’ best interests at heart, and is not delivering the customer service standard that you deserve.
2. Customization Opportunities
Your manufacturer may provide customization opportunities that you were not even aware of. It’s always worth asking what exactly on your wrecker can be customized, to make sure you’re taking advantage of every capability, and building the most efficient and durable wrecker possible.
Some areas that are specifically worth asking about include:
- Tool Box Layout
- Paint Colors
- Cable size
- Rigging
- And much more
3. Outsourcing
Opting for a manufacturer that fabricates and manufactures the majority of the project in-house helps to streamline the process, and lowers the risk of defects on the final wrecker due to miscommunication / parts changing hands throughout the process.
Though it is inevitable that some parts of the process need to be outsourced by your manufacturer, you want to ensure that the majority of parts are being fabricated in house.
4. Price
You should feel comfortable talking candidly with your manufacturer about the price of your wrecker, and know confidently where your money is going and what services it is paying for.
5. Timeline
Similar to price, your manufacturer should be able to be extremely open and transparent with you about the timeline of the manufacturing process and what is going on every step of the way.
Develop a relationship with your manufacturer where you feel comfortable asking them questions throughout the process, knowing that they will answer your call or email in a timely manner.
Additionally, you want a manufacturer who can be honest with you if any bumps in the road set the process back, so your expectations can be managed accordingly. If the manufacturer seems to be shifty about timelines and discourages you from contacting them throughout, it might be time to look for a new partner.
Feeling Ready to Spec Your Next Wrecker?
Our team is happy to answer any questions that may pop up throughout the manufacturing process of your new tow truck.
Get started by reaching out to our team today!
