How do I Buy a New Step-side Pickup Bed?

Pickup truck beds can be damaged in accidents, by heavy use or rust. Occasionally an owner may decide it is necessary to replace the bed. New replacement truck beds, including step-sides, can be purchased from a variety of sources, depending on the requirements and specifications of the purchaser as well as the age of the vehicle in question.

Instructions

1

Contact the dealership. The dealership's service and parts department will be the best source of replacement truck beds for virtually all newer model vehicles and some older models as well. Dealerships should have no problem getting a replacement truck bed for a step-side truck that was made in the past 10 to 15 years. Note that you may have to specify if you are looking for a brand new step-side truck bed, as dealerships have been known to purchase refurbished parts from junkyards from time to time, especially if the vehicle is older or was not a high-production model.

2

Look for an OEM replacement or a company that can provide you a new, aftermarket step-side truck bed for your make and model of truck. OEM companies, or Original Equipment Manufacturers, are companies that make products to be marketed under the brand name of a different company. In the auto business, OEM is a designation used for parts that are made by the same manufacturer of the original part you are replacing. Specific companies cater to certain makes, models and year model vehicles, so you will have to find the company that specializes in providing parts for your specific truck and inquire from there. Aftermarket parts are designed to fit specific vehicles but are not made or sold by the original manufacturer.

3

Contact local body shops. As businesses, they may have sources and contacts you do not have access to. A body shop may be able to find a manufacturer who is making replacement beds for your model of truck, even if the original manufacturer has gone out of business or no longer produces the truck bed you need.

4

Contact your local junkyard or auto salvage. In some cases, especially with rare or very old vehicles, the only way to get a replacement truck bed that is the same as the original will be to find one in an auto salvage yard. Even if they do not have one on the property, a number of these types of businesses are linked together and they may be able to find the step-side truck bed you need and have it shipped to the local yard. A number of these businesses refurbish their parts and will provide guarantees.

5

Pay for the truck bed and arrange shipping, if necessary. Once you have found the step-side truck bed you need, you will need to pay for it and have it shipped to your location. Most of the time the seller you purchased it from will handle all shipping details.