Building a work-ready commercial truck isn’t just about picking a make and model — it’s a multi-step process involving multiple players, and every decision matters.
In this episode of Truck Chat: Fleet 101, Lauren Fletcher sits down with Jacob Larimore, Chief Operating Officer at EAVX, a JB Poindexter & Co. business unit, to walk through the entire truck-building journey. From choosing the right chassis and selecting the ideal body, to adding the tech, tools, and upfits that make the vehicle road ready — we’re covering it all.
Whether you're brand new to fleet or just need a refresher on the behind-the-scenes process, this conversation will help you understand:
- What goes into buying and building a commercial truck
- Why work trucks are tools, not toys — and how that changes your spec strategy
- Common challenges with lead times, logistics, and customization
- The role of OEMs, body manufacturers, and upfitters
- What’s driving the popularity of full-height walk-in vans
- Key considerations like GVWR, payload, and safety-enhancing features
- And how new tech and AI tools are reshaping how fleets manage vehicle data
Fleet managers, specifiers, and business owners alike will walk away with a clearer picture of how to make smarter upfit decisions and get trucks on the road faster — without sacrificing safety or function.
Watch the full interview above, then explore more Truck Chat: Fleet 101 episodes for practical fleet how-tos and tips.
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