When it comes to equipping a ranch truck with a reliable flatbed, two names come up again and again in Texas: Norstar and CM. Both are popular, both are durable, and both are sold right here at Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX. So how do you choose?
This side-by-side breakdown will help ranchers across Texas and Louisiana figure out which flatbed makes more sense for their operation — whether you’re hauling hay bales, moving livestock equipment, or running fence line every day.
Norstar Flatbeds: Built for Ranch Country
Norstar truck bodies are engineered with working ranchers in mind. Their flatbeds feature heavy-gauge steel construction, a clean profile, and smart features that hold up under daily ranch punishment.
- Steel gauge: 10-gauge floor, 3/16″ structural steel frame
- Finish: Powder-coat finish — tough against UV, scratches, and moisture
- Headache rack: Standard rear-facing toolboxes and skirting options available
- Cab-to-axle compatibility: Multiple CA lengths available for F-350 DRW, F-450, Ram 3500, and chassis cab trucks
- Popular models: Norstar SM (smooth), Norstar SD (diamond-tread pattern)
Ranchers love Norstar because the beds are straightforward and proven. No unnecessary features — just solid steel that takes a beating hauling hay, towing equipment, and working muddy pastures.
CM Flatbeds: More Configs, More Versatility
CM truck beds offer one of the widest flatbed lineups in the industry. If you need a specific configuration — dual rear wheel, single rear wheel, extended length, or gooseneck cutout — CM likely has a model that fits your truck exactly.
- Popular ranch models: CM RD (Ranch Deluxe), CM TM (Truck Maker), CM ER (Economy Ranch)
- Steel construction: 10- and 12-gauge steel depending on the model
- Finish: Powder-coat in multiple colors (black, charcoal, silver)
- Gooseneck options: Many CM flatbeds are gooseneck-ready or available with a factory-cut gooseneck hole
- Widths & lengths: 84″ to 96″ wide, 8′ to 11′ long — extensive fitment matrix
For ranchers who pull gooseneck trailers regularly, CM’s gooseneck-ready flatbeds are hard to beat. The CM RD in particular has been a go-to flatbed for Texas ranch families for decades.
Norstar vs CM: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Norstar | CM |
|---|---|---|
| Frame construction | 3/16″ structural steel | 10–12 gauge steel |
| Floor material | 10-gauge steel | 10–12 gauge steel |
| Gooseneck option | Available on select models | Available on most models |
| Color options | Black standard | Multiple colors |
| Model variety | SM, SD, WB, SB | RD, TM, ER, SK, LM, FM and more |
| Price range | Competitive mid-range | Wide range (budget to premium) |
| Made in USA | Yes | Yes |
Which Flatbed Is Right for Your Ranch?
Here’s a simple decision guide for ranchers:
- Choose Norstar if: You want a tough, no-frills flatbed with proven steel quality and a simple configuration. Great for hay hauling, equipment transport, and everyday ranch work on a Ram 3500 or F-350 DRW.
- Choose CM if: You need a gooseneck-ready bed, multiple color choices, or a specific length/width combo for your chassis cab. CM’s model matrix is the deepest in the industry — if you have a specific fitment need, CM probably has an answer.
Both brands are solid investments that’ll last 10–15+ years with basic care. The “right” choice really comes down to your specific truck, how you use your ranch, and whether you need a gooseneck cutout.
What About Pricing?
At Star Truck Equipment, we price both Norstar and CM flatbeds competitively. Budget-conscious ranchers often find CM’s ER (Economy Ranch) model is one of the most affordable entry-point flatbeds available, while Norstar’s SM flatbed offers excellent value in the mid-range. Call us to get a current quote — prices shift with steel markets, so we’ll give you today’s number.
Installation at Our Wharton, TX Shop
Star Truck Equipment installs both Norstar and CM flatbeds right here in Wharton, TX, and we serve ranchers across the Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. Most flatbed swaps take 1–2 days — we remove your factory bed, install the new flatbed, and do all the wiring for lights and accessories.
We can also help you choose the right CA (cab-to-axle) length and bed width for your specific truck, so you’re not guessing at a measurement that matters.
Ready to Get a Quote?
Whether you land on Norstar or CM, we’ve got both in stock and ready to order. Give us a call at (979) 532-1486 or stop by the shop in Wharton. We’ll walk you through the options, measure your truck if needed, and get you set up with a flatbed that actually fits your ranch operation.
Check out our full inventory of flatbed truck bodies, or browse our Norstar beds and CM beds individually. We’re here to help you make the right call for your ranch.
