Introduction to box trucks

Box trucks provide affordable, versatile transportation for businesses of all sizes. These common vehicles are used for a wide variety of tasks, such as delivering products to customers, moving inventory between warehouses and retail stores, and bringing equipment to job sites.

Also called cube trucks, cube vans, or box vans, box trucks consist of a cab – the passenger compartment and engine – and a separate "box" for cargo. This two-piece construction differentiates them from cargo vans, which are more like passenger vans (with their one-piece construction.) They're part of the larger category of medium-duty trucks, along with flatbed trucks, refrigerated trucks, utility trucks, and more.

Medium-duty trucks don't fall into the same category as full-size tractor rigs. They're not as powerful, and the bed or cargo area is permanently attached, not interchangeable the way tractor trailers are.

Most box trucks fall into GVW (gross vehicle weight) rating classes 3 through 6 – up to 26,000 pounds. Some reach class 7, but these larger models require a commercial driver's license (CDL), which could be a drawback for some buyers. Most small businesses buy class 3 and 4 trucks.

This BuyerZone Box Trucks Buyer's Guide will help you prepare for a box truck purchase by giving you essential information, such as the following:

• Do you want gasoline or diesel?
• What features are most important?
• How much can you expect to pay?

When you're ready, BuyerZone can also help you connect with qualified truck dealerships in your area.