No company survives and thrives for five decades by accident. For Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation, consistently investing in people, processes, and equipment has been the secret to that success.
“I am second generation, said President Chris Ahlum. “My parents started the company back in 1977, so we are going on 50 years next year. We’ve been in the Columbus area ever since and just steadily grown to now four branches.”
One of the most important areas Chris has invested in is the company’s chip truck body fleet. Ahlum & Arbor’s continued success depends on having a fleet that can handle demanding workloads while presenting a professional image in high-end neighborhoods.
That’s why Chris exclusively buys Arbortech’s fixed roof chip bodies.
But that wasn’t always the case.
The Problem
Over the years, Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation built a fleet of chip truck bodies from multiple manufacturers. Their experience varied across brands.
One truck body experienced paint failure and structural problems within the first year and a half of service. In another instance, a lift gate was built incorrectly and delivered with a large hole cut into it to clear the hitch. The company ended up working with a local fabrication shop to correct the problem.
These issues took trucks out of service, causing a major setback to their productivity.
“This truck makes me money as a business, and I can’t just not have a truck for months,” Chris said.
And with many suppliers offering a limited set of body options, Ahlum & Arbor’s fleet didn’t fully meet their workflow and safety needs.
Ahlum & Arbor needed a dedicated chip truck body manufacturer that could deliver durability, responsive service and custom configurations aligned with its workflow.
Solution
Chris found Arbortech consistently met their needs and provided reliable chip truck bodies. Rather than forcing a standard layout, Ahulum & Arbor were able to customize several aspects of their Arbortech bodies, including:
- Relocating toolboxes to the passenger side of the truck so crews can access tools safely from the curb side rather than stepping into traffic
- Adjusting ladder and pole pruner storage on the roof to maximize available space
- Integrating lift gates and other features tailored to their specific operational setup
“They allow us to make tweaks here or there. It’s not just a one-size-fits-all,” says Ahlum.
This flexibility means Ahlum & Arbor has a fleet that enhances productivity rather than fighting against it.
Chris also appreciates Arbortech’s responsiveness and support.
“I can call my rep directly, and I typically hear back the same day,” Ahlum said.
Results
Today, seven of Ahlum & Arbor’s nine active chip trucks run on Arbortech bodies. Ahlum & Arbor has noticed many benefits by using Arbortech chip truck bodies exclusively.
Long-term durability
They can depend on Arbortech trucks to remain in service for 12 to 15 years, increasing the lifetime value of the bodies.
Low maintenance requirements
Aside from routine maintenance such as greasing the hoist and general truck upkeep, Arbortech bodies require little upkeep, even as they age.
Improved safety and workflow
Custom toolbox placement and storage configurations help crews access equipment safely and keep jobsites organized.
Stronger branding and appearance
Arbortech’s smooth-sided design is a great marketing tool, providing a clean surface for vehicle graphics.
“We’re high-end residential, and I’m proud of my trucks pulling up in front of people’s homes,” Ahlum says.
Future
There’s no end in sight for Ahlum & Arbor growth. Chris plans to continue expanding their reach as a regional tree care company, building on its presence in multiple markets.
By combining durable equipment with responsive support, flexible design and continuous innovation, Arbortech will remain a key partner in supporting that growth.
“As we grow, Arbortech is our company,” Ahlum said. “They are a partner that’s going to help us and support us and build trucks to make sure our crews are outfitted and ready to go.”