Not every service body needs the same compartment layout, and getting it wrong means paying for storage
you don’t use or running out of dedicated space for the gear you carry every day. The choice usually comes
down to fewer, larger single compartments versus a body broken into several smaller, dedicated compartments.
At Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX, we build
service bodies for electricians, plumbers,
HVAC techs, oilfield crews, and fleet accounts across Texas and Louisiana, and we walk every customer through
this layout decision before the build starts.
Single-Compartment Layouts
A single-compartment (or fewer, larger compartment) layout gives you one big open space per side instead of
several small boxed-off sections. That’s the right call when you’re hauling bulky items — coils of cable,
long pipe, ladders, bins, or gear that doesn’t fit neatly into a small cubby. Fewer doors also means fewer
hinges and latches to maintain over the truck’s life, and a simpler build usually costs less. The tradeoff is
organization: without dividers, small parts shift around, mix together, and get harder to find fast on a
service call.
Multi-Compartment Layouts
A multi-compartment body breaks storage into several dedicated sections — often paired with
shelving or drawer inserts inside each one — so tools, parts, and consumables each get their own space. This is
the layout most electricians and plumbers gravitate toward, since it keeps fittings, fasteners, and specialty
tools sorted and prevents a fast-moving inventory from turning into a pile in the back of the truck. The
tradeoffs are added weight from the extra doors and dividers, and a higher build cost than an open,
single-compartment design.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Electricians and plumbers with lots of small parts — multi-compartment for fast, organized access
- Crews hauling bulky or long gear — single-compartment for maximum usable space
- Weight-sensitive builds (SRW trucks near GVWR) — fewer, larger compartments keep payload available
- Mixed-use fleets — a hybrid layout, multiple small compartments up front and one large bay in back
We build CM,
RKI, and
STI service bodies in both single- and
multi-compartment configurations, and we can outfit either layout with
drawer inserts or shelving to match how your
crew actually works.
Get the Right Compartment Layout for Your Service Body
Star Truck Equipment builds and outfits service bodies for trades and fleets across Texas and Louisiana
from our shop in Wharton, TX. Call us at (979) 532-1486 or browse our
service bodies and
truck accessories to get started.
