Heavy-duty trucks are used for everything from construction and agricultural jobs to towing boats and other vehicles. You need the right heavy-duty truck accessories to use your truck as effectively and efficiently as possible. You need to know what accessories are available and how they’re used. You can then make a list of items you need and those you want.

What Heavy-Duty Truck Accessories Do You Need?

When deciding what truck accessories you need, there are a few questions you’ll have to ask.

  1. What are you using your truck for? For example, if you’re hauling many smaller tools, you’ll need to invest in storage that includes toolboxes with lots of separate storage space. If you have several large items, such as ladders, you’ll need a headache rack to prevent damage if items move much while driving. If you’re towing trailers, boats, etc., quality hitches and ball mounts are a necessity. 
  2. Will you be driving at night? Lighting is essential if you’re using your truck in heavy traffic or at night. Other questions might include your budget and how much protection or security your truck needs. You may need dozens of accessories to make the job safer and easier or an activity more enjoyable.

Performance Accessories

Performance accessories are necessary if you depend on your truck for long hauling trips or if you drive over rough terrain. The following are a few performance accessories to consider.

  • Towing Accessories: If your occupation calls for you to haul large items or your weekend plans require the ability to haul a boat or a horse trailer, towing accessories are necessary. Ball mounts, hitch balls, and tow hooks are a few of the essentials. 
  • Remote Start: Keeping yourself warm on cold days isn’t the only reason you need a remote start for your heavy-duty truck. Giving the engine time to warm up can increase its life and overall performance.
  • Ignition Security: A heavy-duty truck is a big investment. You need ignition security to keep your truck and all its items safe from theft.

Exterior/Protection Accessories 

Exterior and protection accessories can improve safety and protect gear.

  • Running Boards: Running boards aren’t just for making stepping in and out of a large truck easier. You will likely need one to protect your doors and side panels from debris when driving off-road or in muddy terrain.
  • Bumpers: Heavy-duty trucks need heavy-duty bumpers to absorb shock and keep your truck protected. You’ll need to decide if you need a winch bumper, which connects to the strength points on your truck, or a grille guard bumper, one that offers strong impact resistance.
  • Tonneau Covers: Most truck owners need these covers for several reasons. They protect cargo, and the truck’s bed, and the aerodynamic design may even improve gas mileage.

Storage Accessories

If you use your truck to haul tools, personal items, or large items such as ladders, you’ll need a storage system.

  • Truck Vaults: Truck vaults provide in-vehicle storage solutions if you need several items stored securely and organized. They can prevent break-ins, and some are even fire-resistant.
  • Under-Seat Storage: Depending on what you use your truck for, you can never have enough storage. You can purchase under-seat storage compartments or have them custom-designed.
  • Truck Bed Liners: Bed liners protect your truck bed from dents, scratches, and rust. Different types of liners are available, including truck bed mats, rugs, drop-in liners, and spray-on liners.

What Heavy-Duty Truck Accessories Do You Want?

Depending on the job or activity you use your truck for, there are several other accessories you might be considering. You may not need accessories, but you should put a few of them on your want list. 

  • Extra Security: To protect your truck and all the cargo, tools, etc., you’re hauling, you may want to invest in extra security. A few options include GPS trackers, audible alarms, and a hidden kill switch.
  • Seat Defenders: Instead of using a towel that slides around and soaks through, you’ll want seat protectors that keep all your seats clean and dry no matter how dirty you get.
  • Special Lighting: You may want extra lighting on your mirrors, bumpers, or grille. LED lights are a good option since they use less energy, which means less stress on your battery.
  • Truck Cargo Slides: Extending the bed of your truck can provide extra safety and ease of use if it’s not easy for you to climb in and out of your truck bed.
  • Bug Shields: A good bug shield can keep annoying critters from splattering across your windshield. It can also redirect air flow and absorb stones and other small debris. Shields may even reduce gas mileage.
  • Upgraded Bicycle Rack: Some of the best manufacturers, including Stromberg Carlson, Thule, and Yakima, have recently released new bicycle storage solutions. TCS Upfitting can install innovative bike racks to keep your bikes safe and easily accessible.

Why Partner With TCS Upfitting?

When selecting and installing heavy-duty truck accessories, you need to work with professional technicians who can expertly customize all accessories to fit your truck. TCS Upfitting is the place to go for heavy-duty truck accessories. They can provide hundreds of different truck accessories and offer expert installation services. 

TCS Upfitting is an industry leader with skilled certified technicians who work closely with clients to provide unique solutions and meet deadline needs. They provide a lifetime warranty and exceptional customer service. Contact TCS Upfitting today for more information.