Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, a variety of custom designed accessories can be obtained through dealerships or super shops. Since these were designed specifically for your truck, you are guaranteed a perfect fit, though the price tag may be a bit higher than stock equipment. Survey of what you already have and talk with your employees to see what they really want before you set out to the auto parts store. The following accessories are suggestions to make your truck more functional.

For those real challenging projects, a heavy-duty, front-mounted winch is sure to come in handy. Mopar offers Ramsey Pro Plus and Warn Winches that feature a reversible electric motor, high-grade galvanized aircraft steel cable with clevishook, hawse fairlead, remote control cable and a strong, reliable automatic load holding hook ($1,400). Other items that are useful for added performance include: a bed extender for additional equipment storage space ($230); hitch receiver for the trailer ($150); grille guards for added protection ($400); and running boards also available in diamond plate steel ($500).

Many Landscape Contractors opt to use their trucks for work and play. If this is the case, then you may want to consider investing in a trailer that can be removed on the weekends. Since things tend to bounce around in a trailer, numerous brackets are available to secure your equipment. Not only does this keep the equipment off the floor of the trailer, but it also discourages theft. Worst case scenario--If you don't tie down your equipment properly, you could lose it during transport and possibly cause a major accident. Lesco, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, offers security racks for your trimmers, edgers, blowers and hand tools. To keep things from rolling around in the trailer, be sure to have plenty of bungee cords and tie down straps handy.

When you send workers out to the job site, the appearance of the truck is important because it makes an impression. If your truck is rusty and old with dirty windows and broken side mirrors, what kind of an impression are clients going to get about your business? Also, all those commuters on the road are potential clients that may jot down your phone number. If you total the number of hours you spend in the car per week, don't you (and your workers) deserve a comfortable environment. Take some time to assess the current status of your truck fleet and determine which accessories will provide the greatest benefit to your business. LCM