Fire chiefs are always under pressure to make every dollar count. When it’s time to buy a new fire truck, it can be tempting to save money on big items like the chassis cab. Before you decide, take a closer look at what each option offers and what will serve your department best in the long run.
Here are some things to help you decide whether you want a custom or commercial chassis.
Design And Space
The main difference between custom and commercial chassis is the overall design. A custom chassis is built specifically for fire service, with features that make it more functional for your day-to-day operations. These cabs often have shorter wheelbases, more spacious interiors, and better cab storage options.
A commercial chassis, on the other hand, is designed for general use and later adapted for fire service. That’s why you’ll often find a commercial chassis limited to seating for about five people while a custom chassis can comfortably seat six to ten. The extra space also allows more flexibility for seating with air packs.
If your crew uses SCBA seats, expect room for about four in a commercial chassis and up to nine in a custom one. That extra capacity can make a big difference during busy calls or for departments that frequently run multiple firefighters per truck.
Accessibility And Comfort
Ease of entry and exit is another area where custom chassis are usually better. Custom models usually have wider door openings and lower step heights, which make getting in and out of the cab easier, especially when your team is wearing full gear.
Commercial cabs tend to sit higher off the ground, which can be slightly more challenging for a fast and safe exit. And while custom cabs can be ordered with raised or notched roofs for more headroom, commercial cabs generally come with standard roof options only.
Storage And Equipment Space
Storage is important for most departments. Custom cabs offer built-in storage, like EMS cabinets behind the front seats or extra storage inside the cab. These features help organize medical gear, tools, and protective equipment.
Commercial cabs don’t have as many integrated storage options, though they still provide plenty of space for mounting reels or installing lower storage compartments on the body. Depending on how your department operates, that may or may not be a limiting factor.
Maintenance And Service
Some departments prefer commercial chassis because service centers for these vehicles are often nearby. However, most custom chassis manufacturers work with local service centers as well. At Metalfab, for instance, we’ll help you coordinate any necessary repairs that can’t be performed directly at your station.
When properly maintained, both types of chassis can last 15 years or longer. Custom chassis often exceed the 20-year mark without major refurbishment, while commercial ones generally perform well for 15–20 years, depending on the department’s call volume and usage.
Safety And Durability
Both commercial and custom chassis typically include electronic stability control, but it’s important to confirm this with your dealer before purchasing. Always ask about available safety features to ensure your crew is protected.
One of the biggest safety differences is that commercial chassis generally do not include front- and side-impact airbags. That can be an important consideration, especially for departments that frequently respond to highway or high-speed incidents.
Custom chassis are usually built for heavier use and are often more durable overall. That extra strength also means they’re heavier, requiring larger axles and tires. If your department needs a lighter apparatus for easier maneuvering or lower road impact, a commercial chassis might make more sense for you.
Material Options
Custom cabs today are primarily made from aluminum plate, while most commercial cabs are built using steel. Although a small part of the market still uses stainless steel, aluminum remains the standard for most custom builds due to its combination of strength and lighter weight.
Engine performance is roughly equivalent across both types, as both must comply with the same emissions standards. So, you can expect similar performance when it comes to power and efficiency.
Paint And Finishing
Paint quality has come a long way for both commercial and custom chassis. Many commercial manufacturers now offer upgraded finishes and more colour options. Still, if you’re looking for a very specific or unique paint shade, a custom chassis is more likely to have it available as part of the build.
You can repaint a commercial cab to match your department’s colour scheme, but keep in mind that a custom chassis typically includes the paint finish in its warranty. That coverage can save your department both time and money in the long run.
Drive Systems And Other Features
Before finalizing your chassis choice, consider the drive systems and how they’ll be used. For example, if your department requires 4×4 capabilities for off-road or rural responses, confirm this early with your dealer. While most custom chassis do not come standard with 4×4, some manufacturers can accommodate that request.
Transmission placement is another important topic to discuss before the design is finalized. Making these decisions early will help ensure the truck performs as expected for your specific applications.
Which Option Is The Best For Your Department?
At the end of the day, choosing between a commercial and a custom chassis isn’t just about cost; it’s about long-term value. Departments that need flexibility, added seating, and customized storage often find that the investment in a custom chassis pays off over time. Those looking for a lighter, lower-cost option that still delivers strong performance may lean toward a commercial chassis.
Both can serve departments well when matched to their needs, environment, and budget. No matter which chassis style you choose, make sure you understand what’s covered and how to access service when needed. That support can make a big difference down the road.
If you’re still unsure which chassis is right for your fire truck, contact us for more information or give us a call at 1 800-561-0012.
Our team is always happy to help guide you through the options and find the best fit for your department.
