When you’re outfitting a work truck with a service body, two names that often come up are CM Truck Beds and Dutec. Both build commercial-grade service bodies designed for demanding daily use — but they take very different approaches to materials, design, and application. This guide breaks down the key differences so you can make the right call before you invest in your next upfit.
About CM Service Bodies
CM Truck Beds is one of the largest and most trusted truck body manufacturers in North America, headquartered in Madill, Oklahoma. Their CM SK Service Body is a flagship product built from heavy-gauge steel with fully welded construction, undercoat protection, and a wide range of customization options. CM service bodies are designed for high-mileage fleet operators, municipal crews, and commercial contractors who demand longevity and support.
Key features of CM service bodies:
- Heavy-gauge steel construction with welded seams (no exposed fasteners)
- Standard and custom compartment configurations
- Powder-coat finish in multiple colors
- Available in multiple body lengths (8′, 9′, 10′, 11′, 12′)
- Optional crane prep packages, ladder racks, and drawer packages
- Wide dealer and parts network across Texas and Louisiana
- High resale value due to brand recognition
About Dutec Service Bodies
Dutec is a Texas-based manufacturer (Sherman, TX) that produces service bodies and truck boxes for commercial use. Dutec has a solid regional reputation in North Texas and focuses on contractor and utility service markets. Their bodies are built to provide solid utility at competitive price points, with an emphasis on local availability and faster lead times for Texas buyers.
Key features of Dutec service bodies:
- Steel construction with a focus on functional compartment layouts
- Regional manufacturing with shorter lead times in Texas
- Competitive pricing, particularly for smaller fleets
- Standard configurations for contractor and utility applications
- Available through select regional dealers in North Texas
CM vs Dutec: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | CM Service Bodies | Dutec Service Bodies |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Location | Madill, OK (national) | Sherman, TX (regional) |
| Construction | Heavy-gauge welded steel | Steel, standard gauge |
| Finish | Powder-coat, multiple colors | Powder-coat |
| Customization | High — crane prep, racks, drawers | Moderate — standard configs |
| Body Lengths | 8’–12′ (multiple sizes) | Limited size range |
| Parts & Support | National dealer network | Regional (North TX focus) |
| Best For | Fleets, contractors, municipalities | Smaller operations, local jobs |
| Availability in South TX | ✅ At Star Truck Equipment (Wharton, TX) | ❌ Not stocked locally |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose CM if: You’re running a commercial fleet, need specific custom configurations (crane prep, integrated ladder racks, custom drawer packages), want national parts support, or you’re operating across multiple Texas and Louisiana locations. CM’s build quality and resale value make it the stronger long-term investment for serious operators.
Consider Dutec if: You’re in the Sherman or DFW corridor, need a no-frills service body quickly, and you’re a smaller operation with a tighter budget. For buyers in South Texas or Louisiana, Dutec’s regional distribution model means less direct access and limited local support.
CM Service Bodies Available at Star Truck Equipment
At Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX, we’re a stocking dealer for CM Truck Beds, including the full line of CM service bodies. We serve contractors, fleet operators, municipalities, and independent tradespeople across South Texas, the Gulf Coast, and Louisiana. Our team can help you select the right body length, compartment layout, and add-ons for your specific application — whether that’s HVAC, electrical, plumbing, oilfield, or construction.
We also carry RKI service bodies (manufactured in Houston, TX) and STI (Service Trucks International) mechanics trucks and crane bodies — giving you a full lineup to compare before you buy.
📞 Call us at (979) 532-1486 or stop by our location at 2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX to see service bodies in stock and get a custom quote.
Bottom Line
For most Texas and Louisiana truck buyers, CM service bodies deliver better value — stronger construction, more customization, nationwide parts support, and a dealer right here in Wharton. Dutec fills a niche in North Texas for buyers who need a basic body fast, but for anything more demanding, CM is the clear choice. Contact Star Truck Equipment today to get your CM service body quote.
