Addressing Supply Chain Challenges Through Upfitting
It’s been a challenging few years for manufacturers and consumers alike. We have had to adjust to supply chain complications and come up with new solutions to support consumers, even when dealing with uncertain circumstances. Supply chain issues are resulting in fewer chassis being manufactured and fewer new chassis available on lots.
As business and fleet owners continue to advance, expand their service offerings, and grow their teams, they still need the right trucks and equipment to get the job done efficiently and safely.
Just like teams across the country, we are thinking of ways we can adjust to better meet the needs of the contractors and fleet managers who rely on our equipment to get their work done.
Upfitting an existing chassis is one way to help address some of the scheduling and budgetary challenges we’ve seen in the past few years.
The Why Behind Supply Chain Issues
Part Shortages
Part shortages are plaguing all manufacturers right now. Demand for parts jumped last year as COVID slowed, and employee hiring needs also jumped while there are fewer workers– making it challenging to both manufacture and deliver needed parts. We might have a truck or trailer complete, waiting on a single motor or tank. Meanwhile, customers, unfortunately, have to wait it out.
Chassis Shortages/Microchip
Chassis shortages are affecting all automotive manufacturers. 65% of our business requires a chassis – and both light-duty trucks and heavy-duty trucks are being pushed out months at a time. This is of course not the fault of OEMs, but rather the result of a microchip shortage.
Material Costs
Costs are also accelerating for all aspects of owning a business. From hiring employees and benefits costs to buying raw materials and procuring services that maintain equipment. This is driven by higher demand and lack of supply, while the War in Ukraine has also pushed costs higher for commodities like minerals, petroleum, and food.
A Convergence of Challenges
We aren’t just facing one or two challenges, but rather a unique position created by the convergence of several different challenges. This is a frustrating time for manufacturers and consumers alike. By being able to stay on our toes, we have been able to find temporary solutions to our challenges. Our upfitting program is a result of our team’s strategic pivoting.
An Interim Solution
Our upfitting program uses the chassis you already have and upfits it to become your ideal work truck. This allows our customers to utilize the investments they have already made, instead of purchasing a new chassis and going through the traditional upfitting process.
The process is simple. First, call the Monroe team to discuss what upfit options you are looking for; then, schedule a time to bring in your truck. Leave your truck with our talented team members who are ready to make all updates to your existing chassis. Together, you decide on a time to schedule a pickup. When the updates are complete, you pick up your new work truck and are ready to work!
Partnership is the Greatest Investment
At Monroe Truck Equipment, we believe in developing true and trusted partnerships with our customers. We serve commercial dealerships and contractor end-users in communities across the country and work to find solutions for their most pressing needs. While priorities may shift over time, a reliable manufacturer and upfitting partner will always be valuable when you’re working toward your long-term goals.
