A custom fire truck is one of the most important purchases a fire department will make. It’s not just a vehicle. It is a long-term operational asset that must support your crew, your response profile, and your community for years to come. Because of that, planning for a new apparatus should start a long time…
At Metalfab, fire truck design is never about looks alone or checking boxes on a spec sheet. Every design decision is guided by one core question: how does this protect the crew who rely on the apparatus on every call? The work of a firefighter is unpredictable and takes place in high-pressure environments. Long shifts,…
Every fire chief understands that regular maintenance keeps their apparatus on the road longer. But maintenance is about more than avoiding breakdowns or passing inspections. It’s really about protecting a major long-term investment and ensuring fire trucks remain reliable, safe, and ready to respond throughout their entire service life. Fire trucks operate under conditions unlike…
Designing and ordering a new fire apparatus feels overwhelming for most fire departments. This is why we like to remind departments that with the right preparation, resources, and support, this process can be simplified and quite exciting. A structured approach helps departments stay organized, reduce delays, and make informed decisions that lead to better long-term…
When a fire department starts the process of purchasing new fire apparatus, it typically starts with a Request for Proposal. This is commonly referred to as an RFP. This document outlines the department’s standards, expectations, and requirements so manufacturers and vendors clearly understand what is needed before submitting a bid. A good RFP does more…