VEHICLE UPFITTING
B y Nat alie A n n C o m eau
STREAMLINING THE PROCESS Most vehicle manufacturers offer special services to commercial clients, including owners of small businesses. Ask to speak with the fleet manager, who will know about any applicable programs, including financial incentives. The fleet manager can also streamline the upfitting process. “The dealer works closely with the vehicle upfitters to get a quote for the customer, and includes the upfit as part of the capital cost,” explains Kerri Stoakley, communications manager with Ford of Canada. “The full cost of the vehicle, upfitting and graphics can be part of the capitalized cost and can be part of the finance package.”
aving an organized vehicle not only helps you work more efficiently, it protects tools and inventory, allows you to travel safely, and helps project a professional image. Vehicle manufacturers and specialty upfitters across Canada offer a variety of choices for contractors, from packages designed specifically with the plumber or HVAC/R technician in mind to mix-and-match options that allow for full customization according to individual requirements.
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A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING (AND EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE) From cabinets and drawers, to storage bins, tank racks and utility racks, there are many packages available that cater to the trade-specific needs of mechanical contractors. HVAC/R packages consist of lots of open shelving with adjustable dividers to
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by Natalie Ann Comeau
Customers can customize their vehicles by adding such accessories as ladder racks.
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