If you’re shopping for a CM truck bed and trying to decide between the CM TM and the CM RD, you’re not alone. These are two of CM’s most popular flatbed models — and they’re easy to confuse at first glance. Both are steel flatbeds built to work, but they have real differences that matter depending on how you haul, what you haul, and what truck you’re putting them on.
At Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX, we carry both the CM TM and CM RD and install them on Ford, Ram, Chevy, and GMC work trucks every week. Here’s a straight comparison so you can make the right call.
CM TM Flatbed: The Midsize Workhorse
The CM TM (Truck Maker) is CM’s mid-range steel flatbed. It’s designed to give you a lighter-weight option without sacrificing too much in terms of payload capacity. Here’s what defines the TM:
- Weight: Lighter than the CM RD — typically 100–150 lbs less depending on size
- Construction: 3-inch channel steel frame with formed steel floor
- Headboard: Standard cab guard / headboard included
- Side rails: Solid steel sides — no open rail design
- Best for: Farmers, ranchers, small contractors — anyone who needs a dependable flatbed at a lower price point
- Common sizes: 7’x84″ to 9’x97″ — fits most 3/4-ton and 1-ton trucks
If you’re running a Ford F-250, Ram 2500, Chevy Silverado 2500HD, or similar SRW truck, the CM TM is a solid, economical choice. It handles ranch work, hay hauling, and light equipment loads without breaking the bank.
CM RD Flatbed: The Heavy-Duty Option
The CM RD (Rancher’s Dream) is CM’s premium flatbed — and it earns that reputation. It’s built heavier, wider, and with more structural rigidity for demanding work. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Weight: Heavier than the TM — built for trucks that can handle it (F-350, Ram 3500, F-450, Ram 4500, etc.)
- Construction: 4-inch main channel steel frame — significantly more rigid than the TM
- Headboard: Taller, more substantial cab guard standard
- Side rails: Open rail design — easier to stake, load, and work from the sides
- Width: Wider deck — typically 8’6″ to 8’8″ wide, maximizing haul space
- Best for: Heavy contractors, oilfield, construction, farmers with serious haul needs
- Common sizes: 7’x94″ to 12’x102″ — fits 1-ton through medium-duty trucks
If you’re putting a flatbed on a dually — Ford F-350 DRW, Ram 3500 DRW, or a chassis cab like the F-450, F-550, Ram 4500, or Ram 5500 — the CM RD is the right move. You get a wider, stronger platform that matches the capability of your truck.
CM TM vs CM RD: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | CM TM | CM RD |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | 3″ channel steel | 4″ channel steel |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier / more rigid |
| Side Design | Solid sides | Open rail |
| Deck Width | Narrower | Wider (up to 8’8″) |
| Best Truck Fit | SRW 3/4-ton & 1-ton | DRW 1-ton & chassis cab |
| Price Point | More economical | Premium |
| Common Use | Ranch, farm, light contracting | Heavy contracting, oilfield, fleet |
Which CM Flatbed Should You Choose?
Here’s the simple rule of thumb our team at Star Truck Equipment uses:
- Single rear wheel (SRW) truck? → CM TM is your flatbed.
- Dual rear wheel (DRW) truck or chassis cab? → CM RD is your flatbed.
- Budget is a factor and your loads are moderate? → CM TM saves you money with no regrets.
- You haul heavy equipment, work oilfield, or need maximum payload? → CM RD is worth the upgrade.
Both are American-made, powder-coat finished, and built to outlast the truck they’re bolted to. We’ve installed hundreds of both models across Texas and Louisiana, and we’ve never had a customer regret either choice when matched to the right truck.
Other CM Flatbed Models We Carry
CM makes more than just the TM and RD. We also carry:
- CM ER — Entry-level economy flatbed, lightest option in the CM line
- CM SK — Service body (not a flatbed, but the most popular CM service body we sell)
- CM PLS — Platform body for utility and municipal applications
You can browse all CM truck bed options on our CM Truck Beds page, or check out our full flatbed truck bodies inventory.
Get the Right CM Flatbed Installed at Star Truck Equipment
We’re located at 2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX — right between Houston and Victoria, serving all of South Texas and Louisiana. Our team will measure your cab-to-axle distance, confirm your truck’s GVWR, and make sure you leave with the right flatbed for your work.
Call us at (979) 532-1486 to order your CM flatbed or schedule installation. We stock CM TM and CM RD flatbeds in multiple sizes and typically have same-week installation available.
Also see: CM RD vs CM ER Flatbed Comparison | What Size Flatbed Do I Need? | Best Truck Bed Options for Ford F-350
