Steel vs. Aluminum Flatbeds: Which CM Truck Bed is Right for You?

When it comes to upgrading your truck with a flatbed, choosing between steel and aluminum can be a tough decision. After all, each material has its advantages. Ultimately, though, your choice will largely depend on your specific needs, work environment, and budget.

Whether you're hauling heavy loads on a daily basis or looking for a lightweight and corrosion-resistant option, CM Truck Beds is a great option. We’re proud to partner with CM  to offer our customers a range of steel and aluminum flatbeds to suit different applications. But which one is right for you?

Let’s take a closer look at some critical features of steel vs aluminum flatbeds so you have a clear understanding of which CM Truck Bed model best fits your needs.

Durability is a Prime Feature

Durability is often the first consideration when comparing steel vs aluminum flatbeds. On the one hand, steel flatbeds are known for their incredible strength. For example, CM’s steel flatbeds, such as the RD Steel Flat Deck (shown above) and SK Steel Skirted models, are designed to handle heavy-duty workloads, making them ideal for construction, agriculture, and industrial use. Their 1/8” treadplate decks and 4” structural channel steel frame rails provide incredible toughness, too, which allows them to withstand frequent loading and unloading of heavy materials.

Aluminum flatbeds, on the other hand, are no slouch when it comes to durability. While not as dense as steel, aluminum offers excellent strength relative to its weight. Good examples of this are CM’s AL SK Aluminum Skirted and AL RD Aluminum Flat Deck (shown above) models.

Both of these flatbeds feature extruded aluminum floors and 4” structural channel steel frame rails, which provide top-notch support while maintaining a lightweight profile. Aluminum beds are resistant to rust and corrosion as well, making them a great choice if you’re operating in wet or salty environments.

Consider Weight and Fuel Efficiency

One of the most significant advantages of aluminum flatbeds is their weight savings. Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, which translates to improved fuel efficiency and increased payload capacity. If your goal is to maximize what you can haul while reducing overall vehicle weight, an aluminum flatbed like the AL RS All Aluminum Flat Deck is a great choice.

Steel flatbeds, while heavier, offer unparalleled rigidity and strength. If weight is not a primary concern and you need the heaviest-duty option available, steel models such as the TM/TMX Steel Tradesmen shown above provide the necessary durability for high-impact applications. However, keep in mind that the added weight may reduce your truck’s fuel efficiency and payload.

Steel vs Aluminum Flatbeds: Consider Maintenance

While steel flatbeds are heavier duty, they require more maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion. Although CM Truck Beds utilizes high-quality powder coating to protect steel surfaces, prolonged exposure to moisture and road salt can lead to oxidation. Regular inspections, repainting, and rust prevention treatments are necessary to keep a steel flatbed in peak condition.

Conversely, aluminum flatbeds are naturally resistant to corrosion. This makes them a great long-term investment, especially if you use the truck in areas like northern Texas or New Mexico, where road salt in the winter can wreak havoc on your vehicle. In those cases, models like the AL ER Aluminum Hauler and AL SK Deluxe Aluminum Skirted option (shown above) from CM Truck Beds provide peace of mind with their low-maintenance, corrosion-resistant builds.

Steel vs Aluminum Flatbeds: Cost Considerations

When comparing steel vs aluminum flatbeds, cost plays a major role in decision-making. Steel flatbeds typically come at a lower initial price point, making them an attractive option if you’re on a budget. Models like the RD Steel Flat Deck and SK Deluxe Steel Utility Body offer premium strength at a competitive cost.

Aluminum flatbeds, while more expensive upfront, can offer savings in the long run. Their lighter weight improves fuel efficiency, and their corrosion-resistant properties reduce maintenance and replacement costs. If you’re planning for long-term use and prefer minimal upkeep, an aluminum flatbed may be the better investment despite the higher initial price.

Choosing the Right Bed for Your Work

Your choice between steel and aluminum ultimately depends on the nature of your work. If you frequently transport heavy equipment, lumber, or industrial supplies, a steel flatbed like the ER Steel Skirted Hauler is your best bet. These beds are built to handle high-impact loads and rough job site conditions.

But if you need to prioritize fuel efficiency and a rust-free build, aluminum flatbeds like the ALTM Aluminum Tradesman are ideal. These beds cater to businesses and individuals who operate in wet or corrosive environments, and provide that long-lasting durability that was mentioned earlier.

Having said that, ​​no matter which material you choose, CM Truck Beds provides industry-leading craftsmanship. With their excellent warranty, nationwide service network, and high-quality materials, CM ensures that your truck bed investment lasts for years to come. Whether you go with steel for its rugged strength or aluminum for its lightweight efficiency, CM Truck Beds delivers premium options tailored to your needs.

Work Better With CM Truck Beds

Whichever direction you choose to go, an aluminum or steel truck bed from CM Truck Beds can make your work experience far better—it’ll be more functional, more efficient, and more enjoyable, too!

And if you’re still not sure if aluminum or steel is the way to go, we’re here to help! Our experts know flatbeds like the back of their hands and are eager to help you troubleshoot your needs so you get the right bed for the job. 

Come on by our headquarters just off I-20 in Abilene, contact us, or give us a call at 888-323-5902 to get the process started. A better work experience is waiting for you with a CM Truck Bed and BTR Outfitters. Take it from us—BTR (pronounced better) is in our name!