A CLOSER LOOK AT THE BOX BODY BUILDING MARKET
In New Zealand’s freight and logistics sector, the box body truck is indispensable. Whether moving dry freight, chilled produce, or frozen goods, transport operators depend on box bodies that are strong, reliable, and tailored to their business needs. But with several established manufacturers all claiming to offer the best, how do you know which builder is right for you?
This article takes a closer look at some of the country’s leading box body manufacturers, highlighting their strengths, differences, and where each fits best.
WHO BUILDS THE BEST BOX BODIES IN NEW ZEALAND?
ACTION MANUFACTURING - Scale and speed.
Hamilton-based Action Manufacturing is the country’s largest truck body builder, with a focus on motorhomes and ambulances. Their strength lies in scale: they can deliver large numbers of vehicles, making them a go-to for national fleets and high-volume orders.
The trade-off is that their builds are often geared toward consistency and speed. For businesses seeking more specialised or small fleet configurations, Action may not always offer the same flexibility as smaller or more design-focused competitors.
AUTOMATED NZ - Custom ad-ons from Tauranga.
Automated NZ, based in Tauranga, is known for building both dry freight and temperature-controlled box bodies. A key feature of their work is the wide range of add-ons they can integrate—tail lifts, toolboxes, tie-downs, and ferry hooks, to name a few.
Their approach appeals to operators who value practical extras as part of the initial build. However, Automated’s operation is more regional in scope, and their production capacity does not match the national reach of larger players.
HALE MANUFACTURING - Craftsmanship in Christchurch
From the South Island, Hale Manufacturing has built a strong reputation. Using locally sourced coolstore panel, their box bodies often include custom details such as doors and lighting. They are particularly well regarded for their willingness to take on challenging, bespoke projects.
The limitation for many customers is geography: Hale’s strength is servicing the South Island, but their Christchurch base makes them less accessible to North Island operators.
MANUKAU TRUCK BODIES - An Auckland mainstay.
With more than three decades in business, MTB is a trusted name in the Auckland region. Their portfolio is broad—curtain-siders, tippers, and service vehicles alongside some box bodies—giving them versatility across the transport industry.
They are recognised for durability and back their workmanship. That said, their expertise is spread across multiple body types, meaning box bodies are only one part of their broader offering.
ELITE TRUCK SPECIALIST - Freight-focused builds.
South Auckland’s Elite Truck Specialist has a strong presence in curtain-siders and flatdecks. While they also produce some box bodies, their core market remains freight and linehaul. A recent joint venture with TMC Trailers around curtains and trailers has further strengthened their offering in that segment.
For operators needing refrigerated or highly specialised box bodies, Elite may not be the primary choice, but their freight builds are well respected.
APEXX TRANSPORT UPFITTERS - Balancing design and certified efficiency.
Apexx Transport Upfitters, based in Auckland, specialises in engineered box bodies for both dry and temperature-controlled freight. With a history stretching back over 50 years, Apexx has refined a design-led approach that prioritises durability, compliance, and energy efficiency.
Unlike the very large or very small players, Apexx sits in the middle: big enough to provide consistency, high volume and service nationwide, but still focused on tailoring solutions to customer requirements. This balance has made Apexx a trusted partner for businesses that need both reliability and flexibility.
THE BOTTOM LINE FOR OPERATORS
Each manufacturer brings its own strengths:
Action delivers volume for national fleets such as Motor Homes.
Automated NZ offers practical extras and regional flexibility.
Hale provides South Island craftsmanship and bespoke options.
Manukau Truck Bodies is a versatile Auckland provider.
Elite focuses on freight and curtain-siders.
Apexx combines national service with design-led, compliant box bodies.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the needs of your fleet. By understanding where each builder excels, operators can make confident decisions for their business.