Spec ahead and drive away with the perfect truck.
With today’s rapidly advancing technology, truck components change every year. So it’s wise to review the requirements and goals with your dealer. But first, sit down with your fleet management team and ask these questions:
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What is the application? (Dump truck, rear packer, or wing plow?) |
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What is the mission? (Haul 20,000 lbs of gravel, or plow snow on the interstate?) |
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Will the truck operate off-road more than 10% of the time? |
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What are the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) requirements? |
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What’s the expected payload? And are CDL or non-CDL trucks desired? |
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Are there any body requirements that may affect the truck chassis? |
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What are the powertrain performance requirements? (Does the truck need to pull a certain grade at a certain speed?) |
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What are the vehicle performance requirements? (Does the truck need extra maneuverability to operate in cul de sacs?) |
Now establish your overarching goals.
- Would you like to spec for lowest initial cost or lowest lifecycle costs?
- What is your desired replacement cycle?
- What costs are you trying to reduce?
- Are there any specific concerns that need to be addressed?
- Are you trying to achieve any efficiency targets?
Important: Ask your dealer about the features, benefits, and value of the latest components. In many cases, he can update you on parts or financing specials that may help lower your costs. If you have questions during the spec-ing process, contact your dealer or International directly at 1-800-44-TRUCK.
