CM vs Bradford Built Truck Beds: Which Is Right for Your Work Truck?
CM Truck Beds and Bradford Built are two of the most recognized flatbed and truck bed brands in the country. Both build quality steel beds for working pickups and cab-chassis trucks — but they serve different buyers with different priorities.
At Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX, we carry both brands. This comparison will help you figure out which one fits your truck and your work best.
Brand Overview
CM Truck Beds
CM Truck Beds (manufactured in Madill, OK) is one of the best-selling flatbed brands in the U.S. Their lineup is extensive, covering multiple flatbed models (RD, SK, Warrior, ER, SB), hay beds, service bodies, and more. CM is known for solid value, broad dealer support, and a wide variety of configurations for different applications.
- Best known for: Wide model selection, strong value, hay beds
- Popular flatbed models: RD, SK, Warrior, ER, SB
- Other products: Hay beds, service bodies, stake beds
- Price range: Value to mid
Bradford Built
Bradford Built takes a premium, customization-focused approach. Based in Coldwater, MI, their Workbed and Flatbed series let buyers configure toolbox placements, floor materials, rail styles, and more. Bradford Built is the go-to for contractors and tradespeople who want a highly functional, organized work platform built exactly to spec.
- Best known for: Customization, toolbox options, premium finish
- Popular models: Workbed, Steel Flatbed, Aluminum Flatbed
- Price range: Premium
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | CM Truck Beds | Bradford Built |
|---|---|---|
| Flatbed models available | RD, SK, Warrior, ER, SB | Workbed, Flatbed series |
| Hay bed option | Yes (multiple styles) | Available |
| Service body option | Yes | No |
| Stake bed option | Yes | No |
| Toolbox configurations | Standard options | Highly configurable |
| Floor materials | Steel diamond plate | Steel, aluminum tread plate |
| Headache rack | Included on most models | Optional add-on |
| SRW & DRW fitments | Yes | Yes |
| CA range | 60″–96″ | 56″–108″ |
| Made in USA | Yes (Madill, OK) | Yes (Coldwater, MI) |
| Price range | Value to mid | Premium |
CM Flatbed Lineup
- CM RD — The most popular CM flatbed. Standard rail, full headache rack, clean layout. Ideal for ranchers and contractors who want a reliable flatbed at a competitive price.
- CM SK — Taller rail height than the RD, giving more side protection for loads. Popular with hay haulers and farmers.
- CM Warrior — Heavy-duty build with thicker steel throughout. Step up from the RD/SK for demanding applications.
- CM ER — Extended rail design for added load containment. Great for mixed hauling applications.
- CM SB — A straightforward, budget-friendly flatbed option for lighter-duty applications.
Who Should Choose CM?
- Ranchers and hay haulers who need proven, reliable flatbeds at strong value
- Anyone needing a hay bed or stake bed from the same brand
- Buyers who want a large dealer network for parts and support
- Contractors who want CM’s service body line to match across their fleet
Who Should Choose Bradford Built?
- Tradespeople (electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs) who need specific toolbox layouts
- Buyers wanting premium finish and a more refined appearance
- Contractors with specific cab-to-axle requirements up to 108″ CA
- Those willing to invest more upfront for a bed built exactly to their workflow
Value vs. Premium: Making the Call
The CM vs Bradford Built decision often comes down to this: if you need a solid, capable flatbed or hay bed at the best value in its class, CM is hard to beat. If you need maximum customization and a premium finish — and your work demands specific toolbox organization — Bradford Built is worth the extra investment.
Both are excellent trucks. Neither will disappoint for Texas and Louisiana work conditions.
See Both Brands In Person
Visit our Wharton, TX location to see both brands and talk through your application. Our team can walk you through available configurations, current lead times, and pricing for your specific truck and CA measurement.
Explore more: CM Flatbeds | Bradford Built Flatbeds | All Flatbed Truck Bodies | Truck Beds For Sale
Call us at (979) 532-1486 — we’ll spec the right bed for your truck and your work.
Star Truck Equipment
2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX 77488
📞 (979) 532-1486