Looking for Knapheide Alternatives? Here Are Your Best Options in Texas
Knapheide makes excellent truck bodies — there’s a reason they’re the largest manufacturer in the country. But they’re not the only option, and many Texas buyers find that other brands deliver equal or better value depending on their specific needs.
At Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX, we carry multiple truck body brands that compete head-to-head with Knapheide across every product category. Here’s a breakdown of the best alternatives:
Service Body Alternatives to Knapheide
CM Truck Beds — CM’s SB and SSK service bodies offer heavy-gauge steel construction with a powder-coat finish at a price point typically 15-25% below comparable Knapheide models. CM is America’s #1 truck bed brand and a Texas-based company.
RKI (Rawson-Koenig) — Built in Houston, TX, RKI service bodies are purpose-built for commercial applications. Their compartment depth and organization rival anything in Knapheide’s lineup, with the advantage of being manufactured right here in Texas.
STI (Service Trucks International) — For mechanics trucks and specialized service applications, STI offers fully integrated solutions including lube systems, crane packages, and fuel service setups that compete with Knapheide’s PGSL and KMT series.
Flatbed Alternatives to Knapheide
Bedrock Truck Beds — Bedrock’s Diamond and Granite series flatbeds are purpose-built for pickup trucks with standard features (gooseneck prep, LED lighting, headache rack) that Knapheide charges extra for. The most popular flatbed brand among Texas ranchers and contractors.
Pronghorn — Premium flatbeds with a focus on durability and towing capability. Pronghorn’s UT series offers a heavy-duty hauling platform that’s built to handle the demands of ranch and construction work.
Norstar — Norstar’s SD and SR flatbed models provide excellent value for buyers who need a solid, reliable flatbed without premium pricing. Great option for fleet purchases.
CM Flatbeds — CM’s SK skirted flatbed and RD platform models are among the most popular flatbeds in Texas. Available in virtually every size and configuration.
Crane Body Alternatives to Knapheide
RKI Crane Bodies — Purpose-engineered crane body packages with deep compartments, outrigger systems, and pre-wired crane mounts. A fraction of the cost of Knapheide’s crane body series for comparable capability.
Tiger Cranes — Tiger manufactures cranes specifically designed for service and utility applications. Combined with an RKI or STI body, you get a crane package that performs on par with Knapheide’s integrated solutions.
Why Choose Star Truck Equipment Over a Knapheide Center?
More brands, more choices. A Knapheide distribution center only sells Knapheide. At Star Truck Equipment, we carry 10+ brands — CM, Bedrock, Norstar, Pronghorn, NXG, RKI, Bradford Built, Aluma, STI, and SpaceKap — so you can compare options side-by-side and pick what’s actually best for your application and budget.
Professional installation. Our team handles complete installation — from removing your factory bed to mounting, wiring, and final inspection. Most installations are completed same-day or next-day.
Competitive pricing. Because we work with multiple manufacturers, we can offer competitive pricing across every product category. Many buyers save significantly compared to Knapheide center pricing.
Financing available. We offer financing options to make your truck body purchase more manageable.
Visit or Call Star Truck Equipment
Call (979) 532-1486 to discuss your needs. We’ll give you an honest recommendation — even if that means pointing you toward a Knapheide product for your specific application. Our goal is getting you the right truck body, not just making a sale.
Star Truck Equipment — 2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX 77488. Serving Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Victoria, San Antonio, and all of Texas.