For years, “stock” fire trucks were often viewed as basic, cookie-cutter apparatus lacking the features and performance needed for challenging operations. But today, departments such as Bellingham Fire Department in Massachusetts are proving modern stock truck programs deliver both rapid delivery and product sophistication.

In a recent episode of the Pierce™ Dispatch podcast, we spoke with Bellingham Fire Department’s leadership team about how the Pierce® Stock Truck Program helped them replace critical apparatus in record time—without compromising on performance or reliability.

Here’s what departments need to know about why stock trucks are becoming a go-to solution.

The Urgency: Why Stock Makes Sense Right Now

When contemplating your next truck purchase, it’s important to consider accessibility and availability. Custom fire apparatus build lead times can create operational strain, while stock trucks enable faster deployment.

“When people hear ‘stock,’ they often think it has a negative business connotation. But with today’s long lead times on custom trucks and every community in the U.S. and Canada in need of trucks right now, stock trucks are a huge asset for departments.” - Zack Spencer, Bellingham Fire Department

Many fire departments are finding themselves in urgent need of fire truck replacements due to:

• Aging fleets reaching the end of their timeline.
• Unplanned losses, such as accidents or major mechanical failures.
• Increasing volume and demand for reliable equipment.

Bellingham Fire Department’s recent experience shows the urgency behind these challenges. After unexpectedly losing a 2016 ladder truck in an accident, their apparatus replacement needs became immediate. Through the Pierce Stock Truck Program, they secured a new engine and a stock 107’ aerial ladder in just six months—far faster than the timeline for a custom build.

What Makes a Fire Truck Stock Program Successful 

The Pierce Stock Truck Program is built to meet the needs of fire departments. Leveraging Pierce’s manufacturing capabilities, the program includes a wide variety of aerials, pumpers, rescues, commercial units and more, configured with options which are often already in production or ready for delivery.

As part of Pierce’s dealer-supported “try before you buy” approach, departments can also frequently view and test units before purchase, enabling informed decisions and faster deployment.

Key factors which set the Pierce Stock Truck Program apart from others include:

• Commonly requested features and layouts
• Ongoing improvements based on customer feedback and market trends
• Pre-engineered for quick upfit so units can enter service fast
• Fleet consistency to streamline training and operations

“We’ve had three brand-new [stock] pieces of apparatus delivered in two years—it’s incredible. It’s kept our fleet ready, our crews motivated and our community protected.” — Zack Spencer, Bellingham Fire Department

Performance and Reliability: What Departments Are Saying About Stock Fire Trucks 

Departments across the country are increasingly turning to stock trucks because they deliver reliable equipment and dependable performance with a quicker lead time.

Departments choosing stock apparatus report:

• Intentional, robust configurations designed to match the latest firefighting needs.
• Desirable features and smart specs based on nationwide feedback.
• Apparatus ready for faster deployment and reliable performance in tough environments.
• Ease of upfit processes thanks to pre-engineered layouts and strong dealer support.
• Financing options through the Pierce Financial Solutions program, providing an extensive line of lease plans.

“We’ve had zero issues. The stock program is one of the best things going right now in the fire service.” — Zack Spencer, Bellingham Fire Department

Stock Program vs. Custom: Not an Either/Or Decision 

Many fire departments face the challenge of balancing immediate needs with long-term custom build plans. Pierce’s Stock Truck Program offers solutions to bridge the gap, delivering high-quality units without sacrificing customization.

Stock apparatus can also serve as stepping stones or gap fillers while departments wait for long-term custom builds or they can become permanent additions to a fleet.

Stock trucks complement custom planning by providing immediate readiness without reducing quality standards. Additionally, stock units often include options for upgrades, color matching and department-specific modifications to meet unique operational needs.

This flexibility makes stock trucks an ideal complement to long-term custom apparatus strategies.

Choosing the Right Partner Matters

Pierce Manufacturing’s Stock Truck Program is supported by a nationwide network of dedicated Pierce dealers and factory teams who work closely with departments every step of the way.

Strong dealer partnerships enhance the stock program experience. Dealers bring local expertise, personalized service and rapid response capabilities which complement Pierce’s leading manufacturing and engineering. Together, Pierce and its network of dealers ensure departments receive not only top-quality apparatus but also attentive support.

“It’s not just about the truck—it’s the team behind it.” - Jason Lacasse, Bellingham Fire Department

A collaborative partnership approach empowers departments to confidently invest in stock trucks knowing they’ll receive both a reliable apparatus and exceptional customer care for the lifetime of the vehicle.

Purpose-Built, Ready-to-Roll

For departments facing rising apparatus replacement demands and extended custom truck lead times, the Pierce Stock Truck Program offers a proven path to reliable performance.

Bellingham Fire Department’s story is proof you can have quality, speed and support all in one ‘stock’ package.

• Explore the Pierce Stock Truck Program: View Available Units
• Hear the Full Story: Episode 27: Bellingham Fire Department, MA – Enforcer™ 107’ Ascendant® Aerial Ladder