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In today’s long-haul trucking industry, sleeper trucks have become the expected standard. Although an expensive addition to the already substantial commercial vehicle price, any career driver will advise that having a sleeper truck is essential. Usually installed by companies specializing in such customized vehicle add-on compartments, it is amazing what can be put into that vehicle with the right design. Drivers can have just about any want or need installed in the sleepers to make long distance hauls more comfortable, safe, and efficient. Heavy Hauler RV's The first sleeper trucks of many years ago were little more than a space behind the driver’s cab and a bunk. The fancy ones had a radio or TV and maybe a little bit of storage space for personal belongings - and not much else. Once it was seen how many benefits a sleeper truck could offer to drivers, the whole idea was expanded and personal compartments got larger and included more amenities over time. Borrowing ideas that originated in RVs and campers, sleeper trucks gradually evolved into the rolling home-away-from-home of today, making use of every available inch as efficiently as possible - and providing more than simply a bunk for resting. Today’s versions are, quite literally, comfortable enough for extended live-in periods, making truck driving a much more enjoyable job. Innovative Custom Builders Sleeper truck customization has reached new levels thanks to the pretty ingenious ideas of a few companies that specialize in such vehicles. Companies like ARI, Indiana Customs, and Custom Studio Sleepers can work with any vehicle owner and customize a private space that offers all the conveniences of home in only a few feet of space. While most custom manufacturers do offer stock units that can be added onto the back of any tractor cab, all will build a custom unit to individual specifications that include their best, space-saving ideas. From Nothing to Something When a new truck with a stock cabin is brought to a custom sleeper company, a lot of preparation happens before any work begins so a customer receives what is wanted and needed. Experienced sales people understand what can and cannot be done with a truck and spend a good amount of time going over various options, needs, and discussion of the best ways to include everything that is desired for that truck. Once a workable design has been determined, the tractors are then outfitted with a cabin of the required size, extending the cab back over the rear wheel area of the tractor. Additions are welded on and become a permanent part of the vehicle, ranging from a few feet long for one person to as much as twenty feet or more that will accommodate a crew. Some of the most comfortable, luxurious sleeper trucks include surprisingly impossible things. Full bathrooms complete with sink and shower are very popular - and for a good reason! Refrigerators and microwaves are expected, although cabins can also be equipped with a single stove burner, small dining nook, full-sized refrigerator, and more. Not an inch of space is wasted in these designs and the end products are quite amazing, seeming to include anything ever wanted for privacy and comfort. Make no mistake, these custom-built sleepers come at a significant price , what with all the specialized parts and hard work; however, today’s career driver wouldn’t think of staying on the road for months at a time without one. It is commonly known that cost is relative when drivers are comfortable and well rested - and money has been saved on lodging and food. The convenience and savings gained more than pays for the extra cost in having custom sleeper trucks built. For any long-haul driving, consider how many benefits can be gained! Christopher M. Hunter is an expert in commercial specialty trucks. To find out more about Sleeper Trucks, go to the main website at: http://www.almenares.com/.
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