The December issue always has an asterisk next to it on my personal editorial calendar. 

When I was transitioning into the role of Pumper editor, several colleagues stressed to me that asterick by December means trucks. A time to look back on 12 months of Classy Truck submissions, put them together in one place for you to observe and ask your opinion on which one deserves the honors of Classy Truck of the Year. 

I enjoy going through truck entries. They give great insight into a company and even the state of the industry. An inflow of emails featuring brand-new trucks are often a sign that business is good and people have money to invest. 

This year’s

The dozen this year were made up of mostly trucks either brand new or only a few years old with nine built in 2022 or later. Bringing down the average were a few classics with the oldest dating back to 1996. 

Variations of black, white and chrome were on full display as the majority of this year’s trucks featured one or more of those colors. As has been the trend of late, bigger is popular with the average tank size of this year’s features falling around 4,000 gallons. And as always, each one is stunning and spotless.

More than a billboard

We often hit on the fact that a pumping truck is a rolling billboard, which is absolutely true. But what does that actually mean? To me, they are so much more than a mobile sign.  

I realize the pride pumpers take in their trucks when a lot of them wait to contact us for a feature article until they have a new truck. Many of the emails I get start with an introduction of name and business and go right into something along the lines of, “We just ordered or received a brand-new truck!” It’s almost as though they feel the truck is what makes them worthy. And even though I don’t agree because there is so much more to a notable business than just their truck, I understand it. Let’s face it, it’s fun to show off our new shiny things.

I like to think the feeling you get every day you leave the lot is a similar one I get once every decade when I buy a new (used) daily driver. That feeling of excitement to be behind the wheel and hoping people notice you cruising through town in something you’ve worked hard for.

Whether you’re a single-truck company or rely on a fleet containing dozens of rigs, they represent who you are a business. The way they look matters. A well-kept truck displays professionalism as well as shows the personality of a company.

What I see (and what the public sees)

Buying brand new - This represents a commitment to your business through substantial investment. It proves you care about the future and care about your employees by providing them with top-notch equipment. 

Hanging on to past investments - I shouldn’t pick favorites, but I’m a sucker for the classics. When I see trucks that have collected a sizable number of hard-earned miles and still look as good as they did the day they came off the lot, I see an owner that was taught to value the things they have. They represent dedication to a business and a willingness to work hard at something. They also show a sentimental side, and there is value in that. 

Restorations - These tell me you are someone that isn’t afraid to take the difficult path to be successful. You’re willing to roll your sleeves up and invest some blood, sweat and tears into making something work. They prove that you see value in something others may not, that you’re not so fast to recommend something brand new, but are willing to think about other options that may save a customer expense or time.   

All of these attributes make up people I’d be happy to hire. 

Keep ’em coming

Please keep the Classy Truck submissions rolling in. I enjoy each and every one of them. Feel free to email me directly at editor@pumper.com, or go to this address and fill out the online form at pumper.com/classy-truck-submission.

In the meantime, flip ahead a few pages and take a look at this year’s roundup of winners and help us vote on the Classy Truck of the Year.  

Thanks for reading, and enjoy!