United Truck & Body Co

United Truck & Body Co, located at 5357 NE 17th St, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA, is a family-owned and operated heavy truck and equipment repair facility. Operating since 1966, this establishment specializes in a wide range of services for the transportation industry, particularly focusing on heavy trucks, buses, RVs, and emergency response vehicles. They are noted as one of the largest heavy truck collision shops in the Midwest. The primary contact number for United Truck & Body Co is (515) 264-8000.

As a heavy truck and equipment repair facility, United Truck & Body Co's environment is built to accommodate large vehicles, which means spacious repair bays, high ceilings, and specialized equipment capable of handling the size and weight of semi-trucks, buses, and RVs. Their status as one of the largest heavy truck collision shops in the Midwest suggests a substantial and well-equipped facility. This would include dedicated areas for:

• Frame Straightening: Specialized frame machines to restore the structural integrity of heavy vehicle chassis.
• Body Shop: Large areas for complete collision repairs, including body panel replacement and fabrication.
• Paint Shop: Industrial-sized paint booths capable of accommodating large vehicles for professional painting services.
• Welding and Fabrication: Equipment for aluminum and other types of welding, necessary for structural and body repairs on heavy vehicles.

The company's long history since 1966 indicates an established presence and likely a well-maintained operational space. They are conveniently located at the intersection of I-80 & I-35, at Exit 136 on I-80, which is ideal for commercial vehicle operators and fleets in transit.

United Truck & Body Co offers a comprehensive suite of services specifically tailored for heavy vehicles, aiming to provide a "single source shop" solution. Their services include:

• Complete Collision Repairs: This is a core service, covering all aspects of damage repair from accidents for heavy trucks, buses, RVs, and emergency response vehicles.
• Painting: Professional painting services for large vehicles, ensuring a high-quality finish after repairs.
• Frame Straightening: Expert services to correct damaged frames and restore structural alignment, which is crucial for the safety and handling of heavy vehicles.
• Axle Alignments: Ensuring proper alignment for heavy vehicles, critical for tire wear, fuel efficiency, and safe operation.
• Complete Wreck Rebuilding: For vehicles that have sustained extensive damage, they offer full rebuilding services to restore them to operational condition.
• Fiberglass & SMC Repairs: Specialized repair for fiberglass and sheet molding compound (SMC) body components common on many heavy vehicles and RVs.
• Aluminum Welding: Expertise in welding aluminum, which is increasingly used in modern heavy vehicle construction for weight reduction.
• Computer Diagnostics: While not explicitly detailed, as a modern repair facility, they would likely offer computer diagnostics for truck engines and systems.
• Glass Repair: Handling glass replacement for trucks and other heavy vehicles.
• Assistance with Insurance Claims: They work closely with all insurance companies and adjusters to streamline the claims process for their customers.

They also offer free estimates (no appointment necessary) and free pick-up and delivery, which are significant conveniences for fleet managers and commercial vehicle owners.

United Truck & Body Co distinguishes itself with several key features:

• Specialization in Heavy Vehicles: Their primary focus on heavy trucks, buses, RVs, and emergency vehicles means they have specialized equipment, facilities, and expertise that general auto repair shops do not possess.
• Extensive Experience: Operating since 1966, they bring decades of experience to the field of heavy vehicle repair, indicating a deep understanding of various makes and models.
• Large-Scale Operations: Being one of the largest heavy truck collision shops in the Midwest implies a capacity for handling a high volume of repairs and complex jobs.
• Comprehensive Service Offering: Their "single source shop" approach aims to provide all necessary repair services under one roof, simplifying the process for customers.

However, customer experiences can be varied. One customer review highlights a significant issue with communication and responsiveness, specifically regarding obtaining an estimate for camper repairs. This individual reported long delays, unreturned calls, and ultimately, an inability to get an estimate or the repairs done, leading to considerable frustration and a strong negative recommendation. The customer felt that the shop manager was uninterested in the work from the beginning. Conversely, another review provides a concise and positive assessment: "Great place for Semi truck repair and estimates." This contrasting feedback suggests that while they possess the capabilities for heavy vehicle repair, consistency in customer service and communication, particularly for non-standard or smaller jobs (like a camper compared to a semi-truck), might be an area of inconsistency.

United Truck & Body Co's promotional strategy appears to emphasize their specialized capabilities and customer convenience:

• Expertise in Heavy Truck & Body Repair: They promote themselves as experts in repairing all makes and models of heavy trucks, buses, RVs, and emergency response vehicles.
• Convenient Services: Offering "free estimates - no appointment necessary" and "free pick-up & delivery" are key promotional points aimed at ease of doing business for their commercial clients.
• Insurance Claim Assistance: Their willingness to work closely with insurance companies and adjusters is a benefit highlighted for customers dealing with accident repairs.
• Reputation as a Large Facility: Their claim to be one of the largest heavy truck collision shops in the Midwest serves as a testament to their capacity and capability.
• Long-Standing Business: Being family-owned and operated since 1966 underscores their longevity and experience in the industry.

For individuals and businesses in Des Moines and the surrounding region requiring collision repair or other services for heavy trucks, buses, RVs, or emergency vehicles, United Truck & Body Co presents itself as a comprehensive and experienced repair facility. Despite a negative review concerning communication on a specific job, their long history and stated capabilities suggest they are a significant player in the heavy vehicle repair sector.