Author Archives: Custom Truck One Source

OBBBA Tax Relief: Write Off Your Entire Truck Purchase on Day One

Take delivery before December 31, 2025, and write it off on your 2025 taxes. More savings now, more cash ready for 2026!

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)  has restored 100% bonus depreciation on qualifying new and used equipment; and that’s game-changing news for truck buyers. Customers can immediately deduct the full cost of new and used trucks, machinery, and upfits placed in service after January 19, 2025. Buyers can claim the full depreciation the same day the truck is purchased, on unlimited truck purchases, meaning instant and limitless tax savings that directly improve cash flow for truck buyers. As of now, this incentive will continue for the following tax years. Please consult your tax and legal advisors for more information.

How 100% Bonus Depreciation Works

Bonus depreciation is unlimited for all property or qualifying equipment that has a recovery period of 20 years or less. This means whether you’re purchasing a single work truck or outfitting an entire fleet, every vehicle qualifies for immediate, full tax deduction.

Here’s the math that matters: Purchase a $100,000 truck, and if you’re in the 21% tax bracket, you’ll see immediate tax savings of $21,000 – reducing your net cost to just $79,000. Multiply that across multiple vehicles, and the savings become substantial.

The legislation, signed into law on July 4, 2025, permanently reinstates 100% bonus depreciation for qualified property acquired and placed in service after January 19, 2025, reversing the phase-down that would have limited deductions to just 40% in 2025.

Timing: Why January 19, 2025 Matters

The OBBBA’s effective date of January 19, 2025 creates a clear dividing line for tax benefits. Property acquisitions for which a written binding contract was entered into before January. 20, 2025, is treated as acquired on written binding contract date, which may cause otherwise eligible property to not be eligible for the expanded 100% bonus depreciation. In summary, equipment purchased before January 19, is not eligible.

Enhanced Business Benefits Beyond Depreciation 

Better interest coverage: The Act expands allowable business interest deductions by redefining “adjusted taxable income” to exclude depreciation; giving financing or leasing customers more relief. This improvement makes financing more attractive and provides additional cash flow benefits for businesses choosing to finance their truck purchases.

The OBBBA also increases the Section 179  expensing limit to $2.5 million, with a new phaseout threshold of $4 million, providing even more flexibility for businesses making substantial equipment investments.

Custom Truck’s Competitive Advantage

With Custom Truck’s unsurpassed inventory of new and used trucks available for immediate delivery throughout the U.S., Custom Truck One Source is the one-stop provider for maximizing these incentives. Our nationwide reach ensures you can take advantage of these tax benefits regardless of your location, while our extensive inventory means you won’t have to wait months for delivery.

Whether you need specialized upfits, work trucks, or fleet vehicles, our complete range of new and used options all qualify for the full 100% bonus depreciation benefit. This gives you maximum flexibility in building the exact fleet configuration your business requires while capturing the maximum tax advantage.

Don’t Miss This Opportunity

The combination of permanent 100% bonus depreciation, enhanced business interest deductions, and Custom Truck’s immediate delivery capability, creates an unprecedented opportunity for fleet expansion and equipment upgrades. Take delivery before December 31 and write it off on your 2025 taxes. More savings now, more cash ready for 2026!

Contact us today  to explore our inventory and discuss how the OBBBA can transform your equipment acquisition strategy. Our team understands both the tax implications and the operational requirements to help you maximize these valuable incentives.

For more information on the OBBBA: https://www.whitehouse.gov/obbb/

**Disclaimer: This material has been prepared for general informational purposes only and is not intended to provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your own tax and legal advisors.

Unlocking the Power of Hydro Excavation Trucks Across Industries

If clearing out waste, debris, or hazardous materials is part of your daily work, you know how important it is to have the right equipment. Vacuum trucks — including hydro excavation trucks — are built to tackle tough jobs safely and efficiently across a wide range of industries. 

From utility maintenance to environmental cleanups and city services, vacuum equipment plays a crucial role in keeping operations running smoothly. Here’s how vacuum trucks are transforming work across key industries. 

Waste and Environmental Management

Vacuum trucks are essential for waste management, especially when cleaning septic systems and grease traps. These specialized units handle thick sludge and liquid waste without risking spills or contamination, preventing system backups and environmental damage.

In industrial settings, vacuum trucks safely remove hazardous or semi-solid waste from job sites, from chemical waste to manufacturing byproducts. Emergency response crews rely on them during environmental incidents like chemical spills, where quick action with proper equipment significantly reduces impact and accelerates site restoration.

Utility Sector: Safe, Non-Destructive Digging

Hydro excavation has revolutionized utility work by combining high pressure water with positive displacement vacuum systems to provide non-destructive underground excavation. This technology safely exposes water mains, gas lines, and fiber optic cables without the service interruption risks of mechanical digging.

Utility companies use vacuum trucks for ongoing maintenance, cleaning debris from lines and vaults to prevent blockages. In emergencies, crews can quickly mobilize hydro vac equipment to assess and fix issues with minimal disruption.

Municipal Applications: Keeping Communities Running

Cities rely heavily on vacuum trucks to maintain essential infrastructure. These vehicles clean sewer systems and storm drains, removing buildup that could cause flooding or blockages. They’re also crucial for pothole repair, streetlight installation, and public works maintenance around buried utilities.

For public space sanitation, vacuum trucks clear debris from roads, sidewalks, and parks, supporting community health and safety. After severe weather events, municipal crews use them for disaster recovery, removing standing water and preparing sites for reconstruction.

Advanced Equipment Solutions

Custom Truck leads the industry as the premier provider of truck-mounted hydrovac trucks from top manufacturers including Tornado, Hi-vac, and Global Vacuum Systems. Our Tornado lineup offers advanced technology for every application:

• Tornado F2 Eco Lite: Lightweight force for urban operations with 84″ x 10′ tank and 42″ van body, designed for precision maneuvering through congested urban centers.

• Tornado F3 Eco Lite: Mid-size solution with 84″ x 10′ tank and 42″ van body, engineered to navigate worksites from industrial parks to suburban alleyways with optimal balance of maneuverability and payload.

• Tornado F4 Eco Lite: Long-haul specialist with tridem axle, 90″ x 10′ tank and 70″ van body, engineered for fewer loads and superior highway fuel economy on country jobs.

• Tornado F5 Eco Lite: Flagship model with 90″ x 11′ 2″ tank and 60″ van body, maximizing payload capacity for the most demanding remote applications.

Your Complete Solution Provider

Custom Truck One Source is the first true single-source provider of specialized truck and heavy equipment solutions. We offer comprehensive services including sales, rentals, financing, equipment customization, aftermarket parts, and 24-hour support.

Whether you need to purchase, rent, or finance your vacuum truck, we provide flexible options to fit your budget and timeline. Our expert team can customize equipment to your exact specifications, and our nationwide network ensures superior service and support wherever you operate.

Get Started Today

Browse our full inventory today. From hydro excavation and environmental cleanup to municipal maintenance and emergency response, Custom Truck One Source delivers the power, precision, and reliability you need to keep your crews working efficiently and safely — every step of the way. 

 

A Comprehensive Guide to the 2025 Storm Season: Understanding Preparation Strategies & Safety Protocols

The recommendations and guidelines presented in this comprehensive storm season guide are based on industry best practices and Custom Truck One Source’s extensive experience serving utility, telecommunications, infrastructure, and emergency response sectors. While these recommendations are designed to enhance safety and operational readiness during severe weather events, they should be used in conjunction with—not as a substitute for—all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and emergency protocols. Each organization must ensure compliance with relevant business continuity requirements, occupational safety standards, and emergency response mandates specific to their jurisdiction and industry.

Custom Truck One Source encourages all readers to consult with legal counsel and regulatory authorities to ensure full compliance with applicable laws during emergency situations. The safety of personnel and the public must always remain the top priority in any emergency response effort.

Regional Mutual Assistance Groups: How Utilities Unite in Times of Crisis

The utility industry faces unprecedented challenges as climate change intensifies storm patterns and extreme weather events become more frequent and severe. When natural disasters strike, power outages can last for days or even weeks, leaving entire communities without electricity. However, utility companies have evolved their disaster response strategies significantly since 2020, transforming how they unite through Regional Mutual Assistance Groups (RMAGs) to restore power faster than ever before.

Recent storms like Hurricane Milton in October 2024 showcased the remarkable evolution of mutual aid coordination, with over 50,000 utility workers from across North America mobilizing within 72 hours to restore power to millions of Florida residents. This response demonstrated how far RMAG protocols have advanced since the early days of hurricane recovery.

Being a member of an RMAG means no utility company must battle crises alone. Back-up resources like skilled workers, trucks, equipment, data, and expertise are always available from other member companies through increasingly sophisticated coordination systems.

The power system is an interconnected network, and utilities working in unison during an emergency event can now restore service more efficiently than ever before, thanks to digital coordination platforms and real-time data sharing.

Today’s mutual assistance programs have become highly standardized and digitally coordinated, a dramatic evolution from the ad-hoc responses of previous decades.

The mutual response efforts during recent storms including Hurricane Ian (2022), Winter Storm Uri (2021), and Hurricane Milton (2024) prove that modern RMAG coordination has reached new levels of efficiency. Utilities now deploy crews and support teams using AI-powered logistics platforms, sending precisely the right resources to exactly where they’re needed most.

Enhanced Benefits of Modern RMAG Partnerships

Today’s RMAG partnerships offer even more advantages than traditional mutual aid:

How Modern RMAG Agreements Work: The Three-Phase Evolution

Pre-Event: Predictive Coordination

Today’s natural disaster prediction capabilities far exceed those available just five years ago. Advanced weather modeling from the National Weather Service, enhanced satellite imagery, and AI-powered pattern recognition provide utilities with longer lead times and more accurate impact predictions.

Power companies now use machine learning algorithms to analyze historical storm data and predict equipment needs before storms arrive. Digital RMAG platforms automatically suggest resource allocations based on predicted storm paths, population density, and infrastructure vulnerability assessments.

These groups now deploy pre-positioned equipment to strategic locations and use mobile command centers that can be rapidly relocated as storm conditions change.

During the Event: Real-Time Digital Coordination

When disasters strike, modern RMAGs operate through integrated command centers that provide real-time visibility into restoration progress across multiple states. Priority restoration follows enhanced protocols that consider not just customer count, but also community resilience factors including medical facilities, emergency services, and critical infrastructure.

Drone technology enables rapid damage assessment without putting crews at risk, while mobile apps allow field teams to instantly report conditions and receive updated assignments. AI-powered resource allocation ensures crews are deployed to locations where they can restore power to the maximum number of customers most efficiently.

Social media monitoring and customer outage reporting apps provide utilities with unprecedented visibility into community needs during restoration efforts.

After the Event: Advanced Analytics and Continuous Improvement

Post-storm analysis now incorporates big data analytics to identify patterns and improvement opportunities. Utilities use performance metrics and customer feedback to refine their mutual aid protocols continuously.

Machine learning algorithms analyze response data to identify optimal crew deployment strategies, equipment positioning, and communication protocols for future events. This data-driven approach enables each storm response to be more effective than the last.

Looking Forward: The Future of Mutual Aid

The utility industry continues to innovate its mutual aid approaches:

• Blockchain Technology: Some RMAGs are piloting blockchain systems for transparent resource sharing and automated billing between utilities
• Autonomous Vehicles: Testing of autonomous utility vehicles for equipment transportation during dangerous conditions
• Advanced Materials: New power line and equipment designs that better withstand extreme weather, reducing mutual aid needs
• Community Resilience Integration: Coordination with local emergency management agencies and community organizations for more comprehensive disaster response

Our Role in Supporting Modern Mutual Aid

We at Custom Truck One Source are proud to support this evolved mutual aid network with our comprehensive fleet of utility and telecom equipment. Our digital inventory management system provides real-time equipment availability to RMAG coordinators, ensuring the right trucks and specialized equipment are positioned exactly where they’re needed.

Our network spans throughout North America, with strategically located equipment depots that support rapid deployment during emergency events. We’ve integrated our systems with major RMAG coordination platforms, enabling automatic equipment requests and streamlined logistics during disaster response.

Whether utilities need bucket trucks, digger derricks, cable pullers, or specialized storm response equipment, our modern fleet management technology ensures rapid deployment to support mutual aid operations wherever they’re needed most.

For more information about our emergency response equipment and RMAG support services, contact Custom Truck One Source today.

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Getting the Job Done: Restoring Power and Utilities After Tornadoes

Every year, seasonal storms and tornadoes cause devastating destruction across the United States. Recent tornado outbreaks, including the December 2024 events across multiple states and the ongoing threat of severe weather in 2025, demonstrate the critical importance of rapid power restoration. While first responders attend to immediate safety needs, restoring power and utilities after tornadoes remains the specialized work of utility companies equipped with advanced technology and coordination systems. 

Modern tornado recovery now involves sophisticated damage assessment technologies including drone surveillance, satellite imagery analysis, and AI-powered resource allocation that can restore power to affected areas 40-60% faster than traditional methods used just five years ago. 

It is vital that utility companies restore power quickly after a tornado strikes. Loss of electricity affects water treatment facilities, hospital operations, and essential communication systems that communities depend on for recovery coordination. 

Understanding the comprehensive approach utility companies now take to restore power after disasters reveals how technology and planning have revolutionized disaster response. Keep reading to discover how modern tornado recovery works. 

Advanced Pre-Disaster Planning 

The foundation of effective tornado response begins with sophisticated predictive planning that goes far beyond traditional storm tracking. Modern utility companies use machine learning algorithms to analyze weather patterns, historical tornado data, and infrastructure vulnerabilities to create dynamic response plans. 

AI-Powered Risk Assessment: Utilities now employ artificial intelligence to identify the most vulnerable sections of their grid based on equipment age, terrain, and historical storm damage. This allows for proactive equipment positioning and crew deployment before storms develop. 

Digital Twin Technology: Many utilities have created digital replicas of their entire electrical grid, allowing them to simulate tornado impacts and test restoration strategies virtually before implementing them in real-world scenarios. 

When it comes to pre-disaster planning, utility companies start by identifying priority restoration areas using sophisticated criteria: 

Technology-Enhanced Implementation 

As soon as tornado development is detected through enhanced Doppler radar and satellite systems, utility companies activate their comprehensive response protocols. Advanced weather modeling now provides 6–12-hour advance notice for crew positioning and equipment staging. 

Drone Deployment: Unmanned aerial vehicles are now pre-positioned to conduct immediate post-tornado damage assessment, providing real-time imagery and data to restoration teams without exposing workers to dangerous conditions. 

Mobile Command Centers: Self-contained command vehicles equipped with satellite communication, weather monitoring equipment, and digital coordination systems can be rapidly deployed to tornado-affected areas to coordinate multi-utility response efforts. 

Companies use predictive analytics to determine optimal staging locations and estimate resource requirements based on tornado intensity, path width, and affected infrastructure density. 

Enhanced Mutual-Aid Coordination 

The mutual-aid approach has evolved significantly since 2021, incorporating digital platforms that enable real-time resource sharing and coordination across utility companies. 

Digital Resource Matching: Advanced algorithms now match available crews and equipment with specific restoration needs, considering factors like crew specializations, equipment compatibility, and geographic proximity. 

Integrated Communication Systems: Utilities participating in mutual aid now use unified communication platforms that enable seamless coordination between different companies’ crews, eliminating the communication barriers that previously slowed restoration efforts. 

Under modern mutual assistance programs, utility companies can mobilize resources with unprecedented speed and precision. Recent tornado responses have seen crews from over 20 states coordinating through centralized digital platforms to restore power to affected communities. 

Advanced Steps to Power Restoration 

Modern tornado recovery follows an enhanced five-step process that incorporates new technologies and methodologies: 

Step 1: Automated Damage Assessment 

Before crews enter potentially dangerous areas, utilities now deploy drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging to assess transmission tower and power line damage. AI-powered image analysis can identify specific types of damage and estimate repair requirements within hours of tornado passage. 

Traditional transmission tower inspection that once took days can now be completed in hours, enabling faster restoration planning and crew deployment. 

Step 2: Smart Grid Integration 

Modern distribution substations incorporate smart grid technology that provides real-time status updates and can often be restored remotely once transmission issues are resolved. Advanced sensors and automated switching systems can isolate damaged sections while maintaining power to unaffected areas. 

Predictive Maintenance Integration: Smart sensors can identify equipment that was stressed but not destroyed by tornadoes, enabling utilities to replace components before they fail and cause secondary outages. 

Step 3: Dynamic Supply Line Management 

Main distribution supply lines now incorporate smart switching technology that can automatically reroute power around damaged sections. GPS-enabled fleet management systems direct repair crews to specific problems with optimized routing. 

Real-Time Load Balancing: As sections of the grid come back online, automated systems balance electrical loads to prevent equipment overload and ensure stable power restoration. 

Step 4: Precision Tap Line Restoration 

Repair of tap lines that serve individual neighborhoods now benefits from mobile apps that allow crews to report completion status instantly, enabling real-time coordination and preventing duplicate work assignments. 

Customer Communication Integration: Automated systems now send restoration updates directly to customers’ mobile devices, reducing call center load and keeping communities informed about restoration progress. 

Step 5: Smart Service Connection Restoration 

Modern utilities use customer mobile apps and smart meter technology to identify individual service line issues quickly. Customers can report outages with precise location data, and smart meters can automatically indicate when individual services are restored. 

Proactive Safety Verification: Before reconnecting individual services, utilities now use thermal imaging and electrical testing equipment to ensure customer electrical systems weren’t damaged by the tornado, preventing potential safety hazards. 

Advanced Post-Disaster Analytics 

Post-tornado analysis now incorporates comprehensive data analytics that examine not just physical damage patterns, but also response effectiveness, customer communication success, and crew safety metrics. 

Machine Learning Optimization: Utilities analyze response data using machine learning algorithms to identify optimal crew deployment patterns, equipment positioning strategies, and communication protocols for future tornado events. 

Community Resilience Assessment: Post-storm analysis now includes evaluation of how quickly communities recovered economic and social functions, informing future restoration priority decisions. 

Climate Adaptation Planning: Utilities use tornado response data to inform long-term infrastructure hardening decisions and climate resilience planning. 

Equipment Innovation for Tornado Response 

Modern tornado response requires specialized equipment that didn’t exist during previous decades: 

The Future of Tornado Response 

Utility companies are continuously advancing their tornado response capabilities: 

• Autonomous Damage Assessment: Testing of autonomous vehicles for initial damage assessment in dangerous areas.
• Advanced Materials: Development of tornado-resistant power lines and equipment designs.
• Community Integration: Enhanced coordination with local emergency management and community organizations.
• Rapid Deployment Technology: Prefabricated power system components that can be quickly installed to restore service.

Supporting Modern Tornado Response 

When tornado disasters strike, utility companies need equipment that matches the sophistication of their response plans. Custom Truck One Source provides specialized utility vehicles and equipment that enable rapid, effective tornado recovery. 

Our modern fleet includes tornado response-specific equipment with enhanced safety features, GPS tracking for optimal deployment, and rapid-setup capabilities that reduce restoration time. We maintain strategic inventory positions across tornado-prone regions to ensure equipment availability when communities need it most. 

Our digital fleet management system integrates with utility company dispatch systems, enabling automatic equipment requests and real-time tracking during emergency response operations. 

Whether you need bucket trucks for line repair, specialized vehicles for debris-filled areas, or mobile command centers for coordination, Custom Truck One Source has the equipment and expertise to support your tornado response efforts. 

Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive tornado response equipment solutions, or explore our full range of utility equipment on our website. 

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Storm Season Preparation 2025: The Essential Guide for Modern Utilities

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which officially began June 1st, is forecasted to be another highly active season with above-normal tropical storm and hurricane activity. With climate change intensifying storm patterns and recent storms like Hurricane Milton demonstrating the devastating potential of rapid intensification, preparation has never been more critical for utility companies and their communities.

Early seasonal forecasts predict 17-25 named storms for 2025, with 8-13 potentially becoming hurricanes. This level of activity requires unprecedented preparation and coordination among utility companies, emergency responders, and equipment providers.

The lessons learned from recent storm seasons have fundamentally changed how utility companies prepare for extreme weather events. Modern storm preparation now integrates advanced technology, predictive analytics, and enhanced mutual aid coordination to protect communities and restore power faster than ever before.

2025 Storm Season: What’s Different This Year

Several factors make 2025 storm preparation unique:

Advanced Forecasting Technology

• Enhanced Hurricane Track Prediction: New satellite technology and AI-powered models provide more accurate storm path predictions 5-7 days in advance
• Rapid Intensification Detection: Improved ability to predict when storms will rapidly strengthen, giving utilities more time to prepare
• Localized Impact Modeling: Computer models can now predict specific infrastructure impacts at the neighborhood level

Climate Change Adaptation

• Infrastructure Hardening Requirements: Many states now require utilities to demonstrate climate resilience in their storm preparation plans
• Extended Season Preparation: Warmer ocean temperatures mean storm season may effectively extend beyond traditional November 30th end date
• Unprecedented Storm Intensity: Utilities must now prepare for Category 6-level impacts even if the scale doesn’t officially exist

Essential Preparation Areas for 2025

1. Advanced Equipment Readiness

Modern storm preparation requires sophisticated equipment inventory management.

Essential Fleet Components:

• Storm-Rated Bucket Trucks: Vehicles rated for high-wind operations with enhanced stabilization systems
• All-Terrain Restoration Vehicles: Specialized trucks capable of navigating flood-damaged and debris-filled areas
• Mobile Command Centers: Self-contained coordination vehicles with satellite communication and drone charging capabilities
• Autonomous Assessment Drones: Unmanned systems for initial damage assessment without risking crew safety
• Rapid Deployment Generators: Trailer-mounted power systems for critical facility backup during extended outages

Enhanced Equipment Features for 2025:

• GPS tracking and real-time inventory management
• Storm-hardened communication systems
• Enhanced safety features for extreme weather operations
• Rapid deployment and setup capabilities

2. Digital Coordination Systems

2025 storm preparation emphasizes digital technology integration.

Essential Technology Platforms:

• Integrated Weather Monitoring: Real-time feeds from multiple weather services with AI-powered impact prediction
• Dynamic Resource Allocation: Software that automatically suggests optimal crew and equipment positioning
• Customer Communication Systems: Automated outage reporting and restoration updates via mobile apps
• Mutual Aid Coordination Platforms: Digital systems for requesting and coordinating resources across utility companies

3. Enhanced Safety Protocols

Worker safety in extreme weather conditions requires evolved protocols.

Advanced Safety Measures:

• Pre-Storm Health Screening: Enhanced protocols to ensure crew fitness for extended emergency operations
• Real-Time Weather Monitoring: Individual crew-level weather alerts and safety notifications
• Wearable Safety Technology: Smart helmets and vests with environmental monitoring and emergency alert capabilities
• Mental Health Support: Recognition and support for the psychological stress of disaster response work

4. Community Resilience Integration

Modern storm preparation extends beyond utility operations.

Community Coordination Elements:

• Emergency Shelter Power Planning: Pre-identified critical facilities requiring priority restoration
• Medical Equipment User Registry: Database of customers with life-supporting medical equipment
• Community Communication Networks: Multi-channel communication systems for emergency updates
• Social Vulnerability Mapping: Identification of neighborhoods requiring enhanced support during outages

Pre-Season Preparation Checklist for 2025

60 Days Before Season Peak (April-May)

Equipment and Infrastructure:

• Complete storm equipment inspections and certifications
• Update GPS tracking and fleet management systems
• Test backup communication systems and emergency protocols
• Calibrate drone systems and update damage assessment software
• Verify integration with mutual aid digital platforms

Personnel and Training:

• Complete storm response training for all crew members
• Update emergency contact databases and communication trees
• Train crews on new safety technology and protocols
• Coordinate with mutual aid partner utilities on resource sharing agreements

30 Days Before Peak Season (May-June)

Operational Readiness:

• Finalize staging area locations and equipment pre-positioning
• Test customer communication systems and mobile apps
• Conduct AI-powered storm response simulations
• Update community emergency shelter and critical facility databases

Supply Chain and Logistics:

• Verify parts inventory and supplier emergency protocols
• Confirm autonomous equipment and drone spare parts availability
• Test rapid equipment deployment procedures
• Coordinate with equipment rental partners for surge capacity

During Active Threats (Storm-Specific)

72 Hours Before Landfall:

• Activate storm command centers and communication protocols
• Begin equipment pre-positioning based on forecast models
• Deploy advanced weather monitoring equipment to predicted impact areas
• Notify mutual aid partners of potential resource needs

24 Hours Before Landfall:

• Complete final equipment positioning and crew assignments
• Launch pre-storm drone reconnaissance if safely possible
• Activate customer communication systems with pre-storm updates
• Finalize coordination with emergency management agencies

Technology Integration for 2025 Storm Season

This year’s storm preparation emphasizes technology integration.

Artificial Intelligence Applications

• Predictive Damage Modeling: AI systems that predict likely infrastructure damage based on storm characteristics
• Resource Optimization: Machine learning algorithms that optimize crew deployment and equipment allocation
• Customer Impact Analysis: Predictive systems that identify customers most likely to experience extended outages

Enhanced Communication Systems

• Multi-Modal Alert Systems: Integration of text, voice, social media, and app-based customer communications
• Real-Time Translation Services: Automated translation for diverse community communication needs
• Social Media Monitoring: AI-powered systems that monitor social media for real-time community needs assessment

Advanced Assessment Technology

• Satellite Imagery Integration: Real-time damage assessment using commercial satellite services
• Thermal Imaging Systems: Equipment that identifies electrical system damage not visible to standard cameras
• LiDAR Mapping: Precision mapping technology for assessing infrastructure damage and planning restoration routes

Supporting Your 2025 Storm Season Preparation

Custom Truck One Source stands ready to support your enhanced storm preparation needs with our comprehensive fleet of modern utility equipment. Our 2025 storm season offerings include the following.

Advanced Storm Response Equipment:

• Latest-generation bucket trucks with enhanced stability and safety systems
• Storm-hardened communication vehicles with satellite connectivity
• All-terrain vehicles designed for post-storm debris navigation

Enhanced Services:

• Digital fleet management with real-time equipment tracking
• Rapid deployment logistics with pre-positioned equipment
• Integration with mutual aid coordination platforms
• 24/7 emergency equipment dispatch and support

Strategic Positioning: Our equipment is strategically positioned across hurricane-prone regions to ensure availability when you need it most.

Preparing for an Unprecedented Season

The 2025 storm season represents a new era in weather challenges and response capabilities. With enhanced forecasting, advanced technology, and improved coordination systems, utility companies are better prepared than ever to protect their communities and restore power quickly after storms.

Success in 2025 will depend on embracing new technologies while maintaining the core values of safety, community service, and mutual support that have always defined the utility industry’s storm response.

Custom Truck One Source is your partner in navigating this challenging season. Contact us today to discuss your storm preparation equipment needs and ensure your team has the tools necessary for an effective 2025 storm season response.

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How Advanced Roofing Conveyors Are Revolutionizing Post-Storm Recovery

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to be above-normal, with NOAA predicting 13 to 19 named storms (with a 60% chance of an above-normal season) compared to an average season of 14 storms. The forecast calls for up to 10 hurricanes, with 3-5 expected to reach Category 3 intensity or greater. From Florida’s Gulf Coast to the expanded reaches of “Tornado Alley” (spanning Texas through the upper Midwest), property owners are bracing for what could be another challenging storm season running through November 30.

The Evolving Nature of Storm Damage in 2025

Today’s severe weather events are becoming increasingly unpredictable and intense. High winds continue to tear, lift, and curl shingles, breaking their protective seal bonds and exposing roof decks to the elements. Hail creates damaging dents and shifts protective granules that guard against water infiltration. But beyond traditional damage patterns, we’re seeing new challenges emerge as climate patterns shift and building materials evolve.

Water damage remains a critical concern, with modern building practices requiring faster response times to prevent mold growth that can compromise entire structural systems. The insurance industry has also tightened its grip on roofing claims, making efficient, documented repairs more crucial than ever for contractors and property owners alike.

The task of re-roofing dozens of homes and commercial buildings after major weather events has grown into a sophisticated operation requiring advanced equipment and streamlined processes.

The Technology Revolution: Modern Roofing Conveyors

The days of hauling materials up ladders with pulleys and platforms are definitively over. Today’s roofing industry demands speed, safety, and efficiency that only advanced conveyor systems can provide.

This shift comes at a time when the industry is experiencing significant growth. The U.S. roofing market is estimated at $24.79 billion in 2025 and projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.17% through 2030. Metal roofing has become the second-most popular material for both residential and commercial roofs, with growth in commercial metal roofing systems expected to be significantly higher in 2025. Smart roofing systems with integrated sensors for real-time monitoring and energy-efficient materials are also reshaping the industry landscape.

Load King, the industry-leading manufacturer of specialized trailers and heavy equipment, has developed the Premier Roofing Conveyor in partnership with Richmond Conveyors and leading chassis manufacturers. This state-of-the-art system addresses the modern roofing industry’s need for versatility, durability, and efficiency. Load King’s conveyor now comes with the Load King Lightning PTO, an electric power take-off unit that enhances both environmental performance and workplace safety by reducing noise levels and emissions compared to traditional systems.

Premier Roofing Conveyor: Built for 2025’s Challenges

The Load King Premier Roofing Conveyor range spans from 31 to 43 feet and incorporates cutting-edge features designed for today’s diverse roofing applications.

Advanced Stability & Safety Features:

• Vertical-Lift Stabilizers: Engineered to minimize surface damage while maximizing stability
• Flush-Mounted Pocket Base Plate: Integrated seamlessly into truck beds for enhanced operator safety
• Elevated Valve Controls: Positioned for comfortable, ergonomic operation during extended use

Corrosion-Resistant Construction:

• Stainless Steel Components: Head section support plates, hinge covers, tail section guards, and all hardware resist rust and corrosion
• All-Aluminum Head Section Pulley: Drum-style design with ¼” belt lagging for superior durability
• Stainless Steel Roof Stand: Engineered for smooth operation throughout the conveyor’s lifespan

Enhanced Performance Features:

• Removable Sprockets: Simplified maintenance and replacement
• Heavy-Duty 4-Bolt Pillow Block Bearings: With grease zerks for long-term reliability
• Integrated Hydraulic Routing: Captive hose holders protect against damage
• Rubber-Faced Stainless Steel Paddles: Optimized grip reduces material slippage

Advanced Mechanical Integration:

• Direct-Frame Post Integration: Utilizing fixed drive motors with accessible grease points
• Removable Access Plates: Easy maintenance access to rotation components and drive motors
• Reduced Hose Movement: Minimizes wear and maintenance requirements

Prepare Your Business for an Active Storm Season

With industry analysts predicting continued growth in storm-related roofing work and the ongoing shift toward more durable, technology-integrated roofing solutions, having the right equipment on standby isn’t just smart business—it’s essential for staying competitive.

Custom Truck One Source maintains Premier Roofing Conveyor units ready for immediate deployment, ensuring contractors can respond quickly when storm damage strikes their service areas.

Get Equipped for 2025’s Opportunities

Don’t let equipment limitations slow your response to the growing demand for professional roofing services. Whether you’re handling traditional storm repairs or installing the advanced roofing systems that are increasingly popular in 2025, the Load King Premier Roofing Conveyor provides the efficiency and reliability your business needs.

Ready to upgrade your capabilities?

Stay ahead of the competition with equipment designed for today’s roofing challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. Contact us today.

 

Southern Strong: Load King Cranes & Voyager I & II – Essential Equipment for the Oil and Gas Service Truck Patch (Regional)

Down here in the Southern oilfields—from West Texas to southern Louisiana—work doesn’t stop just because the heat rises or the road ends. When you’re out in the patch, 60 miles from the nearest town, you need equipment that works as hard as your crew. At Custom Truck One Source, we understand that grit, because we build for it. 

The oil and gas industry relies heavily on specialized lifting and service equipment to keep operations running smoothly. Two lines of equipment rise above the rest for oil and gas professionals in the South: Load King boom trucks and the Voyager service truck series. Let’s talk about why these are must-haves for your field fleet. 

Load King Cranes: The Backbone of Oil & Gas Operations

In the oil and gas sector, cranes aren’t just helpful—they’re absolutely essential. From setting wellheads and moving heavy equipment to lifting pipe sections and positioning drilling components, virtually every operation requires reliable lifting capability. Load King cranes have earned their reputation as the workhorses of the energy industry. 

Here’s why Load King boom trucks are critical to oil and gas operations: 

• Heavy Lifting Where Roads End: Oil and gas sites are often in remote locations with challenging terrain. Load King cranes provide the lifting power needed to move heavy equipment like pumps, generators, and pipe sections exactly where they need to go, even when conventional cranes can’t reach the site. 

• Precision Positioning: Whether you’re setting a Christmas tree on a wellhead or positioning drilling equipment, Load King cranes offer the precise control needed for safe, accurate placement of critical components. 

• All-Weather Reliability: Southern oilfields face everything from scorching heat to sudden storms. Load King cranes are built to operate reliably in harsh conditions, ensuring your operations don’t halt when weather turns challenging. 

• Versatile Lifting Solutions: From light maintenance tasks to heavy equipment moves, Load King boom trucks handle the full range of lifting needs common in oil and gas operations. 

The robust design and proven reliability of Load King cranes make them indispensable for drilling contractors, service companies, and production teams throughout the Southern energy corridor. 

Voyager I & II: Mobile Service Solutions That Don’t Quit

Field mechanics know that when something breaks in the patch, you can’t just run back to the shop—you’ve got to bring the shop to the jobsite. That’s where the Voyager I and Voyager II service trucks become absolutely essential to oil and gas operations. 

These purpose-built service trucks are designed specifically for the demanding needs of the energy sector: 

Voyager I Features: 

• 11′ HD galvannealed steel crane body with master lock system for secure tool storage 

• Right reinforced rear crane rated for 7,000 lbs – Perfect for handling equipment repairs and parts positioning around drilling sites 

• Lightweight, high-quality CTEC tool drawer sets come standard, keeping critical repair tools organized during transport over rough lease roads 

• Superior compartment storage capacity with Load King’s inventive lighting and compartment designs 

• Unmatched work area visibility for safe operations during night shifts and emergency callouts 

Voyager II Features: 

• 14′ HD galvannealed steel crane body with master lock system for enhanced capacity operations 

• Reinforced right rear crane offering 10,000 lbs of rated capacity with 25′ of maximum horizontal reach – ideal for more demanding lifting tasks in oil and gas operations 

• High-performance standard features that offer significant payload savings while maintaining superior quality 

• Competitive pricing without compromising on the reliability field crews depend on 

• Weatherproof construction that protects sensitive equipment and tools from harsh field conditions 

Both the Voyager I and Voyager II are essential to the oil and gas segment because downtime isn’t just expensive—it can shut down entire operations. When a frac pump fails at 2 a.m. or a wellhead needs emergency service, these mobile service units ensure your maintenance team has everything they need to get operations back online quickly. Their integrated crane capabilities mean technicians can handle both repairs and equipment positioning from a single vehicle, maximizing efficiency in remote locations. 

Whether you’re servicing completion equipment in the Permian Basin or maintaining production facilities along the Gulf Coast, the Voyager I and II keep your operations running when every hour of uptime counts. 

Why Cranes and Service Trucks Are Critical to Energy Operations

The oil and gas industry operates on tight schedules and demanding conditions. Equipment failures or delays can cost thousands per hour, making reliable lifting and service capabilities non-negotiable. Load King cranes and the Voyager I & II service trucks work together to provide the comprehensive support that energy operations require: 

• Rapid response capability for emergency repairs and equipment moves 

• Reduced mobilization costs by bringing full-service capability directly to remote sites 

• Enhanced safety through proper lifting procedures and professional service equipment 

• Operational continuity that keeps drilling, completion, and production activities on schedule 

Why Southern Oil & Gas Crews Choose Custom Truck

We’re not a cookie-cutter truck vendor—we’re a partner to the energy industry. With facilities across the South and deep experience in the oil and gas segment, we build, upfit, finance, and support equipment that keeps the patch running strong. 

• Custom upfits for your unique operational needs 

• Flexible financing through Custom Truck Capital 

• Full lifecycle support, from purchase to repair 

• Ready-to-roll inventory at our Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma locations 

Built for the South. Backed by Custom Truck.

If your jobsite is a dirt road, your crew is made of problem-solvers, and uptime is non-negotiable, you’re our kind of customer. Load King boom trucks and the Voyager I & II service trucks are essential tools that help the South’s oil and gas operations stay powered, productive, and prepared for whatever the patch throws their way. 

Need equipment now? We’ve got it. Let’s get to work.  

 

* This blog is part of a regional series focused on the unique equipment needs across different parts of the U.S. The information provided here specifically addresses the demands and conditions of the Southern region. Equipment recommendations and operational insights may vary based on local regulations, climate, and job requirements. Always consult with a Custom Truck One Source representative to ensure the right fit for your project. 

Revolutionizing Rental Fleet Logistics: How SFT & HFT Trailers Drive Safer, Smarter Hauling

Rental houses face a unique set of challenges, including tight turnaround times, varying equipment needs, and the demand for safe and efficient equipment handling. That’s where purpose-built trailers like Sliding Folding Tail (SFT) and Hydraulic Folding Tail (HFT) models come into play. These workhorses are designed to simplify loading capabilities while increasing safety and minimizing load time, making them ideal assets in the high-paced rental industry. 

Built for the Rental Business

Whether you’re hauling compact loaders, skid steers, or mid-sized utility trucks, SFT and HFT trailers offer the flexibility and ease-of-use that rental houses need. Their design supports fast loading processes and accommodates a wide range of equipment sizes. For rental fleets, this means less time training operators, fewer delays in the yard, and more time meeting customer demands.

In fast-moving environments where time is money, these trailers deliver both performance and reliability.

SFT vs. HFT: Which Trailer Fits the Job?

While both trailers serve a similar purpose—hauling equipment efficiently—they have key differences that suit different needs:

• • Sliding Folding Tail (SFT): Designed with a sliding axle to allow the tail to fold down, SFT trailers are a great choice for quicker loading times. They’re typically simpler in design, with fewer hydraulic components, making them easy to maintain and cost-effective for day-to-day hauling. 
  • Hydraulic Folding Tail (HFT): These trailers feature a hydraulically powered tail that folds and unfolds at the pull of a handle. Ideal for larger or taller machines, HFTs offer faster deployment and enhanced safety by reducing manual input. When speed and automation are top priorities, HFT trailers are the clear winner for your heavier machines without 40-ton ratings.

Innovation That Makes a Difference

Modern SFT and HFT trailers come packed with features that make everyday operations smoother and safer. Low-load angles reduce the risk of equipment damage. Non-slip surfaces and strategically placed tie-down points keep loads secure. Hydraulic systems eliminate the need for manual lifting, and LED lighting improves visibility during early morning or late evening pickups.

These features don’t just add convenience—they add real-world value for rental operators and customers alike.

Designed for Today’s Demands

Trailer technology has evolved significantly from traditional ramp setups. The evolution of folding tail designs represents a broader shift in the rental industry: smarter, safer, and faster equipment solutions. As safety regulations tighten and customer expectations grow, investing in trailers that can meet these standards is more important than ever.

Why Custom Truck One Source?

At Custom Truck One Source, we understand the rental industry. Our 35-ton Sliding Folding Tail and Hydraulic Folding Tail trailers are designed for rugged use, with a focus on operator safety and efficiency. Additionally, with nationwide support, custom builds, and flexible financing, we’re here to help rental houses obtain the necessary equipment—when they need it.

Ready to Upgrade Your Trailer Fleet?

View our current inventory today and discover how our SFT and HFT trailers can enhance your rental business.