For municipalities and contractors across the Northeast, winter preparation is no longer something that starts in the fall. In 2026, many fleet managers, public works departments, and snow contractors are purchasing snow and ice equipment earlier than ever, and for good reason.
Long lead times, equipment shortages, and increasing demand have changed the way organizations plan for winter operations. Instead of waiting until late summer or early fall, municipalities are using their June budget windows to secure trucks, plows, spreaders, and snow equipment while inventory is available.
At New England TruckMaster, we’re already seeing increased demand for snow and ice equipment heading into the 2026 season.
Municipal Budget Season Creates a Critical Purchasing Window
For many municipalities, June marks the start of a new purchasing cycle. Budgets are finalized, funding becomes available, and departments can begin ordering equipment for the upcoming winter season.
The challenge is that many fleets are competing for the same limited inventory.
In recent years, snow and ice equipment buyers have faced:
extended chassis lead times,
delayed upfits,
limited manufacturer availability,
and unpredictable delivery schedules.
That’s why many municipalities are moving earlier in 2026, securing equipment before availability becomes an issue later in the year.
Lead Times Continue to Impact Snow & Ice Equipment Availability
One of the biggest changes in the commercial truck industry is how far ahead organizations now need to plan.
Waiting until late summer to begin shopping for snow equipment can create serious operational risks, including:
delayed deliveries,
reduced equipment options,
incomplete fleet preparation,
and increased pressure heading into winter.
Municipalities and contractors are prioritizing:
available inventory,
faster turnaround times,
and work-ready solutions.
New England TruckMaster currently has snow and ice units available now, including completed F-550 builds and additional chassis arriving soon. For buyers looking to avoid lengthy delays, early purchasing can make a major difference.
Henderson Equipment Built for New England Winters
When it comes to snow and ice operations, reliability matters.
That’s why many municipalities and contractors choose Henderson Products equipment for their fleets. Built for demanding winter conditions, Henderson snow and ice systems are designed to handle:
snow removal,
salting operations,
de-icing applications,
and heavy-duty municipal use.
From plows and spreaders to complete snow and ice packages, the right equipment helps crews stay efficient and prepared during winter weather events.
For organizations operating throughout Connecticut and the Northeast, durable and dependable equipment is essential for keeping roads, parking lots, and commercial properties safe throughout the season.
Work-Ready Snow & Ice Trucks Available Now
One of the biggest advantages for buyers this season is securing equipment that is already built or currently in process.
At New England TruckMaster, available inventory includes:
completed snow and ice builds,
incoming chassis,
and customizable truck configurations for municipal and contractor applications.
Instead of waiting months for a build slot, organizations can secure equipment sooner and prepare their fleets well before winter demand peaks.
This is especially important for:
public works departments,
highway divisions,
municipalities,
commercial snow contractors,
and fleet managers preparing for multi-vehicle operations.
Snow and ice equipment is one of the most important investments municipalities and contractors make each year. Delays in purchasing can impact:
response times,
operational readiness,
labor efficiency,
and public safety.
By ordering earlier, organizations can:
lock in inventory,
avoid seasonal bottlenecks,
customize equipment,
train operators sooner,
and ensure trucks are fully operational before the first storm arrives.
For many fleets, summer has become the new planning season for winter operations.
Preparing Your Fleet for the 2026 Winter Season
Whether you operate a municipal fleet, manage commercial snow removal contracts, or oversee public works operations, having the right snow and ice equipment in place before winter matters.
New England TruckMaster supplies snow and ice trucks, plows, spreaders, and work-ready equipment built for the demands of New England winters.
With available inventory, incoming chassis, and Henderson equipment solutions, our team can help municipalities and contractors prepare for the season ahead with faster turnaround times and dependable equipment.
For contractors, the right truck setup is part of the jobsite workflow. Whether you’re hauling equipment, organizing tools, transporting materials, or preparing for winter operations, choosing the right truck body and upfit can improve efficiency, safety, and productivity every day.
At New England TruckMaster, we help contractors across Connecticut and the Northeast build work-ready trucks designed for real-world jobsite demands. From flatbeds and service bodies to custom accessories and lighting packages, our team works with contractors to create trucks that are built to perform.
Choosing the Right Truck Body for Your Operation
Different contractors need different truck setups. The right body depends on your trade, daily equipment needs, and how your crew operates in the field.
Flatbeds
Flatbeds are one of the most versatile options for contractors. They provide open cargo space for transporting:
equipment,
pallets,
building materials,
skid steers,
and oversized loads.
Aluminum flatbeds are especially popular in New England because they resist corrosion from snow, salt, and harsh winter conditions.
Service Bodies
Service bodies are ideal for contractors who need organized storage and easy access to tools and equipment on-site.
These are commonly used by:
electricians,
plumbers,
utility contractors,
HVAC companies,
municipalities,
and construction crews.
Integrated compartments help crews stay organized while protecting valuable equipment from weather and theft.
Why Contractors Choose Aluminum Truck Bodies
Durability matters when your truck operates year-round in Northeast conditions.
Many contractors choose aluminum truck bodies because they offer:
corrosion resistance,
reduced overall vehicle weight,
improved fuel efficiency,
and long-term durability.
As an authorized dealer for EBY truck bodies, New England TruckMaster offers high-quality aluminum flatbeds and service bodies built for demanding commercial use. Whether you need a lightweight contractor body or a fully customized fleet solution, aluminum bodies provide long-term value and reliability.
Essential Equipment and Upfits for Contractor Trucks
The truck body is only part of the equation. Upfitting your truck with the right accessories can improve organization, safety, and overall jobsite efficiency.
Popular contractor truck upfits include:
toolboxes and storage systems,
ladder racks,
lighting and warning systems,
backup cameras,
winches,
towing accessories,
safety equipment,
and snow plow preparation packages.
At New England TruckMaster, we help contractors customize trucks based on their specific trade and operational needs. Whether you need a work-ready fleet vehicle or a fully customized contractor truck, our team can help configure the right setup.
Need construction tools and contractor equipment? Visit Northeast Tool Distributors for professional-grade tools, equipment, and jobsite supplies.
Custom Truck Builds for Contractors
No two contractors operate exactly the same way. That’s why custom upfitting is such an important part of building an effective work truck.
Custom truck builds can include:
specialized storage layouts,
custom lighting packages,
equipment mounting solutions,
snow and ice equipment integration,
towing and recovery accessories,
and trade-specific configurations.
A properly outfitted truck helps crews work more efficiently while reducing downtime and improving safety on the job.
At New England TruckMaster, we work closely with contractors to build trucks that are ready for daily commercial use across New England.
New vs. Used Contractor Trucks
Both new and used contractor trucks can be smart investments depending on your budget and operational needs.
New Trucks
New truck builds allow for:
complete customization,
latest safety features,
warranty protection,
and longer lifecycle planning.
Used Trucks
Used contractor trucks can provide:
faster availability,
lower upfront costs,
and strong value for growing businesses.
Many contractors also choose to upfit used chassis with new truck bodies or accessories to extend the life of their fleet while controlling costs.
Find the Right Contractor Truck for Your Business
Whether you need a flatbed, service body, dump body, or fully customized contractor truck, New England TruckMaster can help you build a solution that works for your operation.
From truck bodies and custom upfits to snow equipment and towing accessories, our team helps contractors across Connecticut and the Northeast keep their crews moving.
When it comes to premium wrecker equipment, one name stands out: Miller Industries. For over 75 years, Miller Industries has engineered the most innovative, reliable, and durable towing and recovery solutions in North America. As a Miller Industries dealer in Connecticut and across New England, New England TruckMaster has access to their complete lineup and can help you find the exact model for your operation.
Whether you’re a one-truck owner or managing a fleet of 20+, Miller has a wrecker system that matches your specific recovery needs, budget, and performance goals.
The Miller Industries Advantage
Purpose-Built Engineering – Every Miller system is engineered specifically for towing and recovery, not adapted from other industries
Proven Durability – Miller wreckers are built to handle 10,000+ hours of operation (roughly 5+ years of daily use) without major repairs
Resale Value – Used Miller equipment commands 15-20% higher resale value than competitors due to reputation and durability
Dealer Support – As an authorized Miller dealer, New England TruckMaster provides factory training, genuine parts, and ongoing technical support
Warranty Coverage – Miller’s standard 12-month/12,000-hour warranty gives you peace of mind on every new unit
Miller Wrecker Categories: A Quick Overview
Miller organizes their equipment into four main categories based on application:
Light-Duty Wreckers – 6-10 ton capacity, single-axle trucks, urban/highway service
Medium-Duty Wreckers – 10-15 ton capacity, versatile commercial work, standard recovery
Heavy-Duty Wreckers – 15-22 ton capacity, rotator systems, complex recoveries
Best For: Tow shops, roadside assistance, disabled vehicle recovery, newer tow operators
Light-duty Miller wreckers are the entry point into Miller’s portfolio. They’re designed for quick response on highways and city streets, with smaller footprints that fit easily into tight spaces like parking lots, accident scenes, and residential areas.
Medium-Duty Wreckers: Versatile Commercial Work
Best For: Established tow shops, municipal contracts, commercial fleets
Medium-duty Millers strike a balance: they handle most recovery scenarios without the complexity and cost of heavy-duty systems. This is where most professional tow shops operate.
Best For: Large commercial fleets, highway accident recovery, tractor-trailer specialists
Heavy-duty Millers are engineered for the toughest scenarios: jackknifed semis on interstate highways, multi-vehicle pile-ups, deep-ditch extractions, and high-impact accident scenes.
Rotators are the Mercedes of the towing world. Instead of an articulated boom, they feature a 360° rotating platform that allows the operator to approach recovery scenarios from any angle without repositioning the truck. This flexibility commands significant time savings and premium rates.
How to Choose Your Miller Model: A Decision Framework
Choosing the right wrecker is about matching the equipment to your business model. Here’s the framework:
Preventive Maintenance Programs: Maximize equipment lifespan and resale value
About New England TruckMaster
For 20+ years, New England TruckMaster has been Connecticut and New England’s trusted source for premium towing and recovery equipment. We’re one of the few Miller Industries dealers in the region, meaning we have direct factory access, competitive pricing, and expert support.
Visit in person: 60 S Canal St, Plainville, CT 06062
FAQs
Q: What’s the typical lifespan of a Miller wrecker?
A: With proper maintenance, a Miller wrecker easily lasts 10-15 years. Many operators keep them in service for 20+ years with periodic major repairs.
Q: Can I upgrade or modify my Miller after purchase?
A: Yes. Miller designs their wreckers modularly. Most upgrades (auxiliary hydraulics, joystick controls, camera systems, lighting) can be retrofitted by authorized dealers.
Q: What’s the average fuel consumption of a Miller wrecker?
A: Varies by model and drive style, but expect 5-8 MPG depending on engine size (diesel is standard). Hydraulic systems use additional fuel proportional to boom cycle frequency.
If you’re shopping for a new aluminum truck body and you’ve been looking at Eby, you’ve probably already noticed they make two very different types of work platforms, flatbeds and service bodies. Both are built from high-strength aluminum, both are made in the USA, and both are backed by one of the best warranties in the industry. But they’re designed for completely different jobs, and picking the wrong one can cost you time, money, and a lot of frustration on the jobsite.
At New England TruckMaster, we’re an authorized Eby dealer serving Connecticut and the greater New England region. We’ve helped a lot of contractors, tradespeople, and fleet operators work through this exact decision.
What Is an Eby Flatbed?
A flatbed truck body replaces your factory pickup bed with a wide-open aluminum platform. Eby’s flagship flatbed is the BIG COUNTRY, which has been a go-to choice for farms, construction sites, and anyone who regularly hauls oversized or awkward loads.
The Eby BIG COUNTRY is built around a heavy-duty aluminum sub-structure using 5” j-sills and 3” cross members, topped with a .140” diamond plate floor that can handle everything from pallets of cement to heavy equipment. It features a standard trap-door for a gooseneck hitch, so you can tow a livestock trailer, equipment trailer, or RV without losing any bed space, a big deal if towing is part of your regular workload.
If you want that same tough flatbed with built-in storage, Eby’s FREE COUNTRY takes the BIG COUNTRY platform to the next level. It adds integrated cabinets on both sides for tool storage, custom tie-down brackets, a gooseneck hitch trap door, integrated steps, and custom LED lighting. You get the open-deck versatility of a flatbed with the organized storage of a service body, all in one unit. It’s the flatbed for people who are tired of hauling a separate toolbox.
Eby flatbeds are available in sizes to fit Ford, GM, and Ram chassis, ranging from 7-foot short bed replacements for single rear wheel pickups all the way up to 11-foot configurations on 84” cab-and-chassis trucks.
Who the flatbed is best for:
Farmers and ranchers who need to haul large or irregularly shaped cargo and tow trailers regularly
Contractors moving lumber, pipe, concrete block, or machinery
Landscapers and tree services hauling bulky equipment and debris
Anyone who needs maximum deck space with no walls getting in the way
What Is an Eby Service Body?
A service body replaces your truck bed with a set of lockable cabinets on both sides of the truck, plus a rear working area or tailgate. Instead of an open platform, you get organized storage that you can lock and access from outside the vehicle. No climbing in the bed, no gear sliding around, no leaving tools at the shop because you couldn’t find them in the pile.
Ebay makes two service body options: the RENEGADE and the newer ADVANCE.
The RENEGADE is Eby’s core service body, built from custom extruded aluminum with a fully interlocking sub-structure. It’s lighter than a comparable steel body while still offering bigger cabinets and more storage volume than many competitors. The doors feature protected seals, stainless steel rotary latches, and wide handles built for use with gloves on. The flush-mounted tailgate has a heavy-duty steel slam latch, and the 49” x 99” rear load area includes corner tie-downs. You can add Eby’s E-Lock keyless remote entry system and LED cabinet lighting for upgraded security and visibility.
The ADVANCE is Eby’s newest service body and their most premium offering. The company describes it as setting a new benchmark for vocational professionals. It features a fully interlaced aluminum understructure, load space shelving above the cabinet network on both the curbside and streetside, and is engineered specifically for trades and fleet applications that demand secure storage, reduced vehicle weight, and long-term rust-free performance.
The RENEGADE is available in multiple lengths and widths for both single and dual rear wheel applications, with body weights starting around 640 lbs for the smallest configurations up to 1,182 lbs for the largest.
Who the service body is best for:
Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and other tradespeople who need organized tool and parts storage every day
Municipal fleets and utility workers who need a consistent, locked equipment setup
Service technicians making multiple stops who can’t afford to dig through a chaotic bed to find a part
Fleet managers who want uniformity across vehicles and reduced tool loss
The Question That Decides It: What Are You Carrying?
Here’s the simplest way to think about it: if your load is the work, get a flatbed. If your tools are the work, get a service body.
A concrete contractor pouring foundations needs to move rebar, bags of mix, and heavy forms from job to job, a flatbed handles that better than anything. A plumber running service calls all day needs to know exactly where every fitting, valve, and piece of copper is, and needs to lock it up between stops, that’s a service body.
Some operations genuinely need both. If you’re running a large crew with multiple trucks, it’s worth having a couple of flatbeds for material hauling and a couple of service bodies for the technicians. That’s a conversation we’re happy to have at our dealership.
A Note on New England Winters
If you’re operating in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, or Rhode Island, the aluminum construction of Eby bodies is a long-term cost decision. Steel truck bodies in New England get eaten alive by road salt. Eby’s all-aluminum construction is corrosion resistant by nature. You won’t be grinding rust and repainting every couple of years. That matters a lot when a truck body is a 10 to 15 year investment.
Ready to Order? We Can Help.
New England TruckMaster stocks Eby truck bodies and can order any configuration to fit your chassis. Whether you’re buying a bare chassis and need a body installed, or you already have a truck and want to replace the bed, we handle the whole process.
Can I get an Eby body installed on my existing truck?
Yes. We install Eby truck bodies on both new chassis purchases and existing trucks. If you already own a truck and want to upgrade from your factory bed to an Eby flatbed or service body, we handle the full removal and installation process at our facility. We work with Ford, GM, and Ram platforms. Keep in mind that your truck’s existing bed configuration (short bed, long bed, single vs dual rear wheel) will determine which Eby models fit properly.
How long do Eby aluminum bodies last in New England?
With proper maintenance, an Eby aluminum truck body should last 15-20+ years, even in the harsh New England climate. Unlike steel bodies that rust from road salt exposure, Eby’s all-aluminum construction is naturally corrosion-resistant. You won’t be dealing with rust-through, frame rot, or constant repainting. We have customers running 10-year-old Eby bodies that still look nearly new underneath. Regular cleaning to remove road salt buildup and occasional hinge lubrication is about all the maintenance they need. For a truck body representing a $10,000-$15,000 investment, that kind of longevity makes aluminum the smart long-term choice in our climate.
Do you deliver and install Eby bodies throughout New England?
Yes. New England TruckMaster serves all six New England states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. We stock popular Eby configurations at our Connecticut facility and can order any custom build to your specifications. Installation is performed at our shop, and we can arrange delivery or pickup depending on your location and preference. For municipal fleet orders or multi-unit purchases, we offer on-site delivery and installation coordination.
Can Eby bodies be customized with additional features?
Absolutely. Eby offers extensive customization options beyond their standard models. Popular add-ons include Eby’s E-Lock wireless keyless entry system, LED cabinet interior lighting, custom exterior paint colors, additional ladder racks, crane mounts, and specialized tie-down configurations. For service bodies, you can customize cabinet layouts and add drawer dividers. For flatbeds, gooseneck hitch positioning and toolbox integration can be configured to your needs. We work through all customization options when you place your order to ensure the final body matches your operation exactly.
What’s the difference between the RENEGADE and ADVANCE service bodies?
The RENEGADE is Eby’s core service body and has been their workhorse model for years. It offers excellent storage capacity, durable construction, and proven reliability at a mid-range price point. The ADVANCE is Eby’s newest premium service body, introduced to set a higher standard for professional tradespeople. Key differences: the ADVANCE features load space shelving ABOVE the cabinet network on both sides (giving you more storage without increasing body width), a more advanced fully-interlaced aluminum understructure for increased strength, and refined ergonomics for faster access. If you’re a high-volume service operation where technician efficiency matters, or running a premium fleet where equipment quality is part of your brand, the ADVANCE is worth the upgrade. For most standard service applications, the RENEGADE delivers everything you need.
Do Eby bodies affect my truck’s payload capacity?
Yes, but aluminum construction keeps the impact minimal. Eby flatbeds and service bodies are significantly lighter than comparable steel bodies. For example, an Eby RENEGADE service body weighs 640-1,182 lbs depending on configuration, while a steel equivalent might weigh 900-1,500+ lbs. That 250-400 lb difference means you’re carrying more cargo and less body weight. The BIG COUNTRY flatbed is similarly lightweight compared to steel alternatives. We calculate payload impact for your specific truck and body combination during the ordering process to ensure you’re staying within your truck’s GVWR rating.
New England TruckMaster is an authorized Eby dealer serving CT, MA, RI, VT, NH, and ME. We also carry Miller Industries towing equipment, Henderson snow and ice removal equipment, and commercial truck accessories.
Winter in New England is one of the most demanding seasons for towing and recovery professionals. With heavy snow, freezing rain, and icy highways, tow operators face challenges that require specialized skills, equipment, and situational awareness. As recent storms have already led to more than 100 crashes in a single event, snow and ice remain a pervasive hazard across the region.
These conditions increase demand for towing and recovery services but also escalate the risk to your operators and equipment.
1. Safety Protocols for Icy Conditions
Slow Down and Stay Alert
Icy patches and black ice can appear without warning, especially on bridges and shaded areas. Operators must reduce speed well below posted limits, allow extra following distance, and avoid sudden steering or braking maneuvers that can lead to loss of control.
Traffic Control and Scene Management
Winter weather reduces visibility and driver reaction times. Use high-visibility signage, flares, cones, and reflective gear around your scene, and coordinate with local responders to secure recovery areas before working near moving traffic.
Communication is Critical
Make sure dispatch and your drivers share real-time location and weather updates, and have contingency plans if conditions deteriorate.
2. Equipment Considerations
Tire Chains & Traction Devices
Chains are a winter staple in heavy snow and ice. They provide extra traction, especially during recoveries on untreated surfaces. Use them where conditions demand, and ensure operators are trained in proper installation.
Lights & Visibility
Shorter daylight hours and blowing snow make good lighting essential. Inspect headlights, taillights, beacons, and auxiliary lamps before every shift. Clear snow and ice from lenses to maximize visibility.
Cold-Weather Fluids & Batteries
Freezing temperatures sap battery capacity and thicken hydraulic fluids. Use cold-rated oil, antifreeze, and heavy-duty batteries designed for low temperatures. Carry de-icer and nontoxic antifreeze for critical systems.
3. Proper Use of Winches & Dollies on Slippery Surfaces
Working on ice requires patience and technique:
Set up winches on stable ground and use appropriate anchor points.
Avoid sudden jerks. Smooth, steady pulls minimize stress on cables.
Use recovery mats, sand, or traction boards under dollies to improve grip.
Train operators to recognize when a recovery attempt is unsafe under current conditions.
4. Driver Safety & Visibility in Winter Weather
Being outside the cab during winter operations increases risk:
Minimize time spent outside the vehicle where possible.
Remind operators to clear snow from mirrors, windows, and lenses before and during calls.
Black ice, especially, can catch even experienced drivers by surprise. Awareness and cautious movement on foot at job sites are critical.
5. Vehicle Preparation for Cold Weather Operations
A properly prepped tow truck keeps crews safe and productive:
Batteries: Test capacity and clean terminals. Cold can reduce output dramatically.
Brakes & Tires: Inspect for wear and proper tread. Consider winter-specific tires.
Hydraulics & Winch Lines: Lubricate and check for freeze-related damage.
Emergency Kits: Stock blankets, flashlights, ice scrapers, tow straps, first aid, and extra communication batteries.
6. Scene Safety & Traffic Control in Winter Conditions
Winter scenes can be chaotic:
Lower speeds for oncoming traffic using arrow boards or cones.
Wear Class 3 safety vests even in low visibility.
Use spotters when pulling vehicles near live lanes.
Coordinate with law enforcement for closures or traffic reroutes when necessary.
7. Maintenance Tips for Tow Trucks in Freezing Temperatures
Cold seasons demand proactive care:
Inspect fluid levels daily.
Warm engines before heavy use.
Keep fuel tanks at least half full to reduce condensation.
Run heaters and defrosters to maintain safe operating environments.
Routine maintenance minimizes breakdown risks for your own fleet in the harsh cold.
8. Miller Industries Equipment for Harsh Weather
Miller Industries winches, hydraulics, and recovery gear are engineered for reliability even in freezing conditions. Their durable design minimizes mechanical failure when you need performance the most, a vital advantage in the unpredictable New England weather.
With proactive planning, the right gear, and disciplined practices, your team can manage winter calls with confidence, even when snow and ice make everything else unpredictable.
This intensive training program brought together towing and recovery operators from across Connecticut for advanced heavy-duty instruction. Attendees participated in this immersive workshop, with hands-on training, demonstrations, techniques, and more.
Partnership in Professional Excellence
New England TruckMaster partnered with TRPC and Miller Industries to deliver this comprehensive training experience. We provided equipment support and hands-on instruction throughout the two-day program, helping operators gain practical experience with the latest heavy-duty recovery techniques and equipment.
Why Training Matters
At New England TruckMaster, we believe in going beyond selling quality equipment. Proper training ensures that operators can use their equipment safely and effectively, protecting both themselves and the motorists they serve. Programs like TRPC’s Advanced PFC help raise professional standards across the entire industry.
Thank You
We want to thank TRPC for organizing this exceptional training opportunity, Miller Industries for their partnership, and all the operators who invested their time in advancing their skills. Your dedication to professional development elevates the entire towing and recovery profession.
We look forward to supporting more training opportunities in 2026 and beyond.
For more information about professional training opportunities or our equipment and services, contact New England TruckMaster today.
This November 20-22, New England TruckMaster will be attending the American Towman Expo at the Baltimore Convention Center. As the leading source for tow trucks, wreckers, and recovery equipment in the Northeast, we’re excited to see the latest industry trends, connect with manufacturers, and gather insights to better serve our customers.
What’s on the Show Floor
The Expo is packed with the newest towing & recovery equipment:
Light- and heavy-duty wreckers
Rotators and specialized carriers
Recovery trailers and service trucks
Advanced tools, GPS systems, and dispatch software
Hands-On Training and Expert Seminars
The Expo is also about education. Seminars cover topics including:
Electric vehicle recovery and roadside safety
Advanced rigging and winching techniques
Recovery billing, operations, and risk management
Fleet optimization and efficiency strategies
Attending these sessions helps us better guide customers on truck selection, fleet setup, and ongoing operations.
Staying Ahead for Our Customers
By attending the Expo, we ensure New England TruckMaster stays on the cutting edge of towing technology and industry best practices. Whether you’re a towing company, fleet manager, or recovery operator, we can provide expert advice on equipment and operations informed by what we see at the show.
Interested in learning more about the latest tow trucks and fleet solutions? Contact our team today.
Featured Truck from the Show
One of the New England TruckMaster units on display at the 2024 American Towman Expo, showcasing the latest in towing power, reliability, and operator-focused design.
Every tow operator knows the feeling: you finish a recovery, get back to the yard, and realize a strap or light didn’t make it back. The job doesn’t stop, and neither can you. That’s why it pays to keep backup gear on hand, and now you can order the best tow truck accessories online with New England TruckMaster.
Here are the must-have items you’ll want ready on your truck. All available now in our online store.
Straps & Chains
From wheel lift straps to V-chains, securement gear is the back bone of every tow. Reliable B/A straps and chains mean you can hook up fast and keep vehicles safe in transit.
Winching & Recovery Tools
Wire ropes, snatch blocks, and hook assemblies give you the pulling power you need when vehicles are struck. Having quality recovery tools on board saves time and stress when the job gets tough.
Dollies & Transport Gear
For vehicles that just won’t roll, dollies are a must-have. Durable systems like In The Ditch’s Speed Dolly keep you moving and keep the job under control.
Lighting & Power
Visibility is safety. TowMate wireless tow lights keep you seen, while tools like the Jump N Carry Jump Pack help you get vehicles back on the road quickly.
Why New England TruckMaster?
Trusted brands: TowMate, In The Ditch, B/A, Whelen
Fast ordering when gear gets left behind
Straps, chains, lights, dollies, and more all in one place
In public works, “easy days” don’t exist. Clearing roads after a nor’easter. Pulling a broken-down plow off I-95. Keeping a 20-year old dump truck alive for one more winter. The work doesn’t stop and neither can your equipment.
That’s why New England TruckMaster will be at the 46th Annual New England Public Works Expo on September 17-18, 2025 at the Royal Plaza Trade Center in Marlborough, MA.
This is one of the region’s largest and most trusted events. There are 200+ vendors and 2,000+ attendees from across New England, bringing together highway departments, DPWs, engineers, and contractors looking for gear that can handle the toughest conditions.
What We’re Bringing to Marlborough
As an authorized Miller Industries dealer and Henderson dealer, we’ll be showcasing trucks and equipment built for the real-world challenges public works crews face everyday:
Snow & Ice Control Equipment
New England winters don’t follow the calendar. From October snow to April ice, and everything in between, our plows, spreaders, and ice control systems are built to perform storm after storm, with the uptime you need when the weather gets ugly.
Municipal Tow & Recovery Trucks
When accidents shut down major roads or a critical vehicle breaks down mid-route, you need equipment that can respond fast. We have light-, medium-, and heavy-duty tow and recovery trucks designed to clear incidents quickly and keep traffic moving.
Fleet Accessories
Hydraulic systems, PTO units, emergency lighting, and safety equipment. We’ve got the add-ons that keep your municipal trucks operational year-round. Our team specializes in custom body configurations built around your department’s needs and budget.
Why Public Works Pros Attend the Expo
For 46 years, the Massachusetts Highway Association’s Public Works Expo has been the region’s meeting ground for municipal crews and suppliers. Here’s why it’s worth your time:
Hands-on Equipment Demos – Climb in, operate controls, and see build quality up close before making purchase decisions.
Direct Access to Experts – Talk with manufacturers and dealers who understand New England’s weather, roads, and regulations.
Educational Seminars – Learn from industry experts and swap ideas with other public works professionals facing the same challenges.
Regional Focus – Connect with suppliers who can service your area and support you year-round.
Built for New England Conditions
Public works in this region means dealing with:
Harsh winters that push trucks to their limits.
Tight municipal budgets where every purchase has to count.
Aging infrastructure that demands versatile, reliable equipment.
Increasing environmental regulations around salt usage and runoff.
As a Connecticut-based company with decades of experience serving New England municipalities, we know how to match the right equipment to your real-world needs, not just what looks good on paper.
See Us in Marlborough
We’ll be at the show ready to:
Demonstrate Miller Industries tow and recovery trucks.
Share financing options for municipal purchases.
Discuss custom builds for your fleet.
Recommend winter readiness solutions for the upcoming season.
Event Details:
Dates: September 17–18, 2025
Location: Royal Plaza Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Road West, Marlborough, MA
Hours: Wednesday 8 AM – 3 PM | Thursday 8 AM – 2 PM
Whether you’re replacing a single truck, upgrading winter operations, or planning a full fleet expansion, New England TruckMaster can help you find solutions that fit your budget and get the job done.
After a long, punishing winter, your plows and spreaders deserve more than just a corner in the garage. They’ve been through heavy use, corrosive materials, and freezing temperatures, and without proper off-season care, they’ll be more likely to fail when the next snowstorm hits.
Before you do anything else, give your plows and spreaders a deep clean. Salt, deicing chemicals, and road grime cling to every surface, and if left alone, they will eat away at paint, metal, and wiring.
Checklist:
Wash all surfaces with clean water and a mild degreaser
Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas around the spreader chute and plow frame
Don’t forget the vehicle undercarriage if mounted
Allow to air-dry for 48-72 hours before moving to storage
If needed, use compressed air to remove moisture from tight joints and pivots
2. Inspect and Maintain Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic failure is one of the most common causes of downtime at the start of winter, and most of it can be prevented.
Inspect hoses, fittings, and cylinders for cracks, wear, or leaks
Top off hydraulic fluid to reduce air gaps where moisture can form
Fully extend and retract pistons, then coat exposed rod with anti-corrosion grease
Every 2-3 weeks, run your plow/spreader briefly to keep seals lubricated
3. Protect Electrical Components
Even a fully functional plow is useless if a corroded wire stops it from turning on. Electrical issues are notoriously common in snow equipment, and almost all are avoidable.
Best Practices:
Clean off dust and grime from all connection points
Apply dielectric grease to plugs, terminals, and fuses to repel moisture
Check the vehicle battery, lights, and relays
Test everything now, not the morning of your first job
4. Grease and Lubricate All Moving Parts
Pivot points, hinges, pins, and springs need lubrication to stay operational, especially after sitting idle through hot, humid months.
Where to Lubricate:
All plow pivot points and springs
Spreaders’ motor shafts and chain drives
Hinges, latch mechanisms, and slide tracks
Grease fittings on the plow frame and A-frame assembly
Use a high-quality, cold-weather-compatible grease for best results.
5. Touch Up Paint and Address Surface Damage
Minor chips in the paint today turn into major rust spots next season. Take time to inspect your equipment for cosmetic damage before storage.
Maintenance Tips:
Remove rust with a wire brush or rotary tool
Apply OEM touch-up paint or corrosion-resistant spray paint to exposed metal
Don’t just paint over rust, prep the surface first for long-term protection
6. Store Equipment Properly
Storage is just as important as any maintenance job. Improper storage creates a perfect environment for moisture, UV damage, and rodent activity.
Best Practices:
Store plows and spreaders in a dry, well-ventilated shelter
Avoid tarps that trap humidity; use breathable covers if needed
Keep equipment off dirt by elevating it
Stay away from salt stockpiles, which release corrosive vapors
Clear any debris nearby that could invite rust or pest damage
The Work You Do Now Pays Off Later
Winter will be back before you know it, and when it hits, your customers (or community) are counting on you. A plow that won’t lift, a corroded spreader, or a dead electrical connection can delay service, cause expensive repairs, and hurt your reputation.
By spending just a few hours this off-season inspecting, lubricating, and storing your plows and spreaders correctly, you’ll start next season with peace of mind and equipment that performs like it should.
Trusted Parts and Support from Henderson
At New England TruckMaster, we proudly support Henderson equipment, the trusted name in snowplows, spreaders, and ice control products. Using genuine Henderson parts ensures:
