"Every off-season, we turn to 312 to refresh our fleet. They sandblast and repaint dozens of frames, trailers, and specialty paving equipment so everything is ready to hit the road again. Their speed and consistency have never let us down, and the quality of work speaks for itself."
Commercial Vehicle Services Blog
Providing expert advice, tips, & industry updates to keep Chicago's fleets rolling.
Our ServicesPractical Advice to Enhance Performance & Longevity
Maintaining your fleet, trucks, and heavy equipment takes more than just routine care—it requires staying informed about the latest industry advancements, repair techniques, and preventative strategies. Our blog is here to help you do just that.
From in-depth guides on collision repair and diesel engine maintenance to tips on rebranding your fleet and extending vehicle lifespans, we share actionable insights to keep your business moving forward. Whether you're managing a single vehicle or an entire fleet, you'll find practical advice, solutions, and trends right here.
Dive into our articles to learn from experts who understand the challenges of commercial vehicle operations. Together, we’ll help your fleet run smoother, last longer, and perform better.
- October 17, 2025
Your Complete Guide to Truck Collision Repair: From Assessment to Road-Ready
Discover what really goes into truck collision repair. From meeting federal safety standards to restoring operational efficiency, every repair step determines how fast your fleet returns to service. Learn how…Read more
- October 6, 2025
The Road Ahead: Emerging Trucking Trends Every Fleet Should Be Watching in 2026 & Beyond
Discover what’s changing in commercial trucking for 2025: from self-driving advances, electric trucks, and digital tech to ergonomic cabs and sustainability goals, this trend summary helps fleet professionals get ready…Read more
- September 22, 2025
Commercial Truck Painting Chicago: Custom Paint Solutions & Specialty Body Work for Fleet Excellence
Discover how professional commercial truck painting in Chicago transforms fleet performance. From truck custom paint branding to specialty paint & body solutions, learn why Chicago fleet managers choose expert services…Read more
- September 12, 2025
Aluminum vs Steel Truck Bodies: Complete Comparison Guide for Chicago Fleet Owners
Choose the right truck body material for your Chicago fleet. Compare aluminum and steel truck bodies across durability, cost, maintenance, and performance factors specific to Midwest conditions.Read more
- September 8, 2025
ROI of Professional Fleet Graphics: Why Wrapped Trucks Outperform Plain Fleet
Professional fleet graphics generate measurable returns through increased brand recognition and lead generation. Analyze cost-benefit data, brand recognition metrics, and revenue impact of vehicle wrapping investments versus plain fleet vehicles.Read more
- August 28, 2025
Chicago Winter Fleet Preparation: A Guide to Salt Damage Prevention & Pre-Season Truck Body Protection for Commercial Vehicles (2025 Edition)
Chicago's harsh winters cost truck fleets thousands in salt damage repairs. This comprehensive guide covers proven strategies for protecting commercial vehicles from corrosion, including washing schedules, protective coatings, and maintenance…Read more
- August 22, 2025
Professional Sandblasting Services in Chicago: Complete Guide for Truck Owners & Fleet Managers
Discover everything Chicago truck owners need to know about professional sandblasting services. From cost factors to provider selection, learn how sandblasting can restore your truck's surface and prevent costly rust…Read more
- August 14, 2025
How to Hire a Professional Truck Painter: Expert Tips & Red Flags
Learn how to hire a professional truck painter with expert tips on qualifications, pricing, interview questions, red flags, and portfolio evaluation. Get actionable advice to ensure your truck paint job…Read more
- August 9, 2025
The Complete Guide to Truck Body Shop Services: What You Need to Know
Complete guide to truck body shop services covering collision repair, painting, costs, quality indicators, and selection criteria. Learn how to choose the right shop for commercial vehicle repairs and what…Read more
- July 25, 2025
Aluminum vs. Steel Truck Body Repair: Complete Cost & Infrastructure Guide
Analysis of aluminum vs steel truck body repair costs, examining specialized equipment requirements, technician training needs, facility certifications, and long-term maintenance considerations for fleet operators.Read more
- July 15, 2025
How Professional Truck Fleet Painting Can Save Chicago Fleets Long-Term
Professional truck fleet painting delivers measurable ROI through 40% maintenance cost reductions, 10-20% resale value increases, and 3-year lifespan extensions. Chicago fleet operators achieve 3-5 year payback periods with volume…Read more
- July 9, 2025
The Complete Guide to Truck Body Modifications in Chicago
Discover everything you need to know about truck body modifications in Chicago. From lift kits and custom paint to regulatory compliance and top modification shops, this comprehensive guide covers costs,…Read more
- July 2, 2025
Semi-Truck Frame Straightening: Why & When It’s Necessary
Confused about semi truck frame straightening in Chicago? Learn the signs, safety risks, and technology behind frame repair—and when replacement is the better choice.Read more
- June 27, 2025
Truck Collision Repair: How to Minimize Downtime & Get Back on the Road
Facing a truck collision? This guide offers practical steps for Chicago fleet operators to manage repairs effectively, reduce downtime, and resume operations promptly.Read more
- June 19, 2025
How Professional Paint & Refinishing Can Extend the Life of Your Fleet Vehicles
Discover how professional truck paint refinishing in Chicago defends your fleet against rust and weather. Explore paint systems, protection tips, and why expert care delivers maximum vehicle longevity.Read more
- June 13, 2025
Truck Frame Welding in Chicago: When Is Welding Safe—and When Should You Replace?
Not sure if you should weld or replace your truck frame? This guide covers Chicago frame welding best practices, safety tips, and when to seek a professional truck welding service.Read more
- June 4, 2025
The Complete Guide to Truck Body Repair in Chicago: Costs, Timelines, & Choosing a Shop
From minor dents to major collisions, this guide explains truck body repair in Chicago—including costs, process, and turnaround times—so you know what to expect and how to pick the right…Read more
- May 26, 2025
How Long Does Truck Paint Last? Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting Shine
Truck paint doesn’t last forever—sun, salt, and daily wear can take a toll. Learn how long commercial truck paint typically lasts and how to extend its shine and protection.Read more
- May 19, 2025
DOT Regulations for Truck Glass: Are You Compliant? What You Should Know…
Cracks, chips, and improper tinting can all fail a DOT inspection. Here's what fleet managers need to know about truck glass compliance—and how to stay inspection-ready.Read more
- May 12, 2025
5 Common Diesel Engine Problems & How to Catch Them Early
From turbo lag to fuel injector failures, here are the most common diesel engine problems and how to catch them early before they sideline your truck or fleet.Read more
- May 6, 2025
Top Truck Paint Trends in 2025: Matte, Metallic & Custom Color Finishes
Matte black, shimmering metallics, and bold custom colors—2025 truck paint trends are all about durability, visual impact, and brand identity. Explore top finishes, expert tips, and real examples from 312…Read more
- April 29, 2025
How to Choose the Right Commercial Truck Body Repair Shop in Chicago
Choosing the right commercial truck body repair shop in Chicago can make or break your fleet operations. Discover how to evaluate expertise, turnaround time, and repair quality—plus what sets the…Read more
- April 22, 2025
Navigating New Truck Emission Standards: What Chicago Fleet Owners Should Know
2027 emission standards are set to reshape fleet compliance. Discover what Chicago truck fleet owners must know about EPA rules, local laws, and how to prepare your vehicles in 2025.…Read more
- April 15, 2025
Top 5 Causes of Truck Body Damage (& How Chicago Fleets Can Prevent Them)
Truck body damage is costly and avoidable. Discover the top 5 causes and smart prevention strategies Chicago fleet managers can implement to reduce repair bills and vehicle downtime. Get a…Read more
- April 8, 2025
Eco-Friendly Truck Painting: Low-VOC Paints & Sustainable Fleet Practices
Explore how eco-friendly truck painting using low-VOC and waterborne automotive paints supports sustainable fleet practices. Learn why Chicago fleets are going green and how your company can benefit too. Get…Read more
- March 27, 2025
Why Choose a Specialized Truck Body Shop in Chicago Over a Regular Auto Body Shop
Choosing a specialized truck body shop ensures efficient, durable, and regulation-compliant repairs for commercial vehicles. Discover why dedicated expertise, proper equipment, and faster fleet turnaround matter for Chicago trucking businesses.Read more
- March 20, 2025
Chicago Commercial Truck Painting: How Quality Paintwork Extends Your Fleet’s Lifespan
Your fleet’s paintwork isn’t just about looks—it’s a crucial defense against rust, weather, and wear. In Chicago’s harsh climate, professional truck painting protects your investment, extends vehicle lifespan, and maintains…Read more
- March 12, 2025
Fleet Painting & Custom Truck Graphics: Keeping Your Trucks Looking Sharp
Ensure your fleet looks professional with expert truck painting services from 312 Truck Body Repair & Painting. Our high-quality paint jobs protect against rust, weather damage, and wear. Custom color…Read more
- March 4, 2025
Maximizing Fleet Uptime: Preventative Maintenance Tips for Chicago Truck Fleets
Keep your fleet looking professional with expert truck painting from 312 Truck Body Repair & Painting. Our high-quality paint services protect against rust, weather damage, and wear—ensuring a polished, long-lasting…Read more
- February 27, 2025
The Science Behind Truck Paint: Why Professional Refinishing Matters
Whether you manage a fleet of commercial vehicles or need a semi truck paint job, understanding the science behind truck painting explains why professional refinishing is the best investment for…Read more
- February 20, 2025
Sandblasting vs. Chemical Treatments: Which is Right for Your Truck?
Choosing between sandblasting and chemical stripping? Our guide breaks down the pros, cons, and costs to help you decide the best paint removal method for your project.Read more
- February 13, 2025
How to Spot Hidden Damage After a Truck Collision
Hidden damage after a truck collision can lead to costly repairs, safety risks, and compliance issues if left unchecked. Learn the warning signs and why a professional post-accident inspection is…Read more
- February 10, 2025
312 Truck’s Guide to Taking Photos for Accurate Auto Repair Quotes
Clear, high-quality photos help ensure accurate estimates and faster service. Follow these steps to get a precise quote and get your vehicle back on the road quickly!Read more
- January 24, 2025
Giving Back to Chicago’s South Side: How 312 Truck is Supporting the Community
Discover how 312 Truck Body Repair & Painting is giving back to the South Side of Chicago. From holiday toy drives to fresh food distributions, learn about their partnership with…Read more
- January 13, 2025
Why Fleet Maintenance Plans are Key to Reducing Downtime
Fleet downtime is costly—not just in lost productivity, but also in repair expenses and customer dissatisfaction. Implementing a robust fleet maintenance plan ensures your vehicles remain roadworthy, minimizes unexpected breakdowns,…Read more
- January 9, 2025
5 Ways to Keep Your Truck Frame Rust-Free
Learn top preventative tips to keep your truck frame rust-free. Protect your vehicle from costly damage and ensure its longevity with expert maintenance and rust-proofing strategies.Read more