The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) classifies brush trucks by type, based on factors like tank size, pump capacity, and chassis:
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Type 3: Built on a large chassis with a 500-gallon tank and 150 GPM pump. Ideal for significant wildland incidents but not well-suited for tight or steep terrain.
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Type 4: Larger water capacity (up to 750 gallons), but sacrifices maneuverability and pump power. Useful in areas without hydrants or water sources.
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Type 5: A balance of water capacity (400–500 gallons) and size, mounted on a medium-duty chassis. Reliable for general use, though still bulky in rugged areas.
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Type 6: Commonly used for initial attack. These trucks typically carry up to 400 gallons of water, with pumps rated 50+ GPM. They’re modular and customizable, often equipped with skid units, foam systems, hose reels, lighting, communications, and winches.
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Type 7: Light-duty patrol trucks used primarily for mop-up, utility tasks, or accessing especially tight spaces. Not designed for direct attack but valuable for support roles.
Although we build them all, the brush trucks we’re seeing the most interest in are “Type 6” Brush Trucks— often referred to as quick attack units — designed for speed, agility, and frontline readiness.
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What sets Basin Upfitting apart on these is our ability to build them quickly — and in a cost-effective, modular way. Each unit can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a department or end user. While municipal fire departments are frequent clients, our trucks are also used by rural agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, as well as by private landowners, farmers, and construction companies. In those environments, a fast response to a small fire can make all the difference in preventing a major incident.
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We can source everything required to deliver a fully turn-key unit — ready for immediate deployment — far faster than many departments are used to. That includes the chassis, custom beds, water pump skids, hose reels, emergency and flood lighting, communications systems, winches, decals, PPE, suspension upgrades (such as LiquidSpring kits), skid plates, generators, and any custom fabrication needed to meet a department’s specific mission requirements.
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This truck was built for United Fleet Services who are able to offer leasing solutions for departments facing budget constraints. Their program provides a practical way to acquire critical equipment without the upfront costs or long-term depreciation of outright ownership. It’s a strong option we believe deserves a spotlight if it gets more trucks out there helping people sooner.
BRUSH TRUCKS
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BUILDING BRUSH TRUCKS
What Is a Brush Truck and Why It Matters
A brush truck, also known as a "wildland fire truck" or "quick attack unit", is a compact, off-road fire vehicle designed to handle fires in rugged terrain where traditional fire engines can’t go. Built on a pickup or medium-duty truck chassis, brush trucks are equipped with a water tank, pump, hose reels, and tools to help contain wildfires quickly and effectively. Their size and 4x4 capability make them ideal for tight access areas, steep terrain, and fast response times.
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Who Uses Brush Trucks and What They're For
Brush trucks are used by a wide range of fire and emergency response teams — from municipal fire departments and volunteer fire stations to federal agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. These trucks are also trusted by farmers, ranchers, and construction crews who need reliable wildland firefighting equipment to protect property in rural areas. Their main job is to respond fast to small fires before they spread, and to support mop-up operations and prescribed burns.
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Brush Trucks vs. Traditional Fire Engines
Unlike full-size fire engines built for urban firefighting, brush trucks are lightweight, maneuverable, and purpose-built for off-road use. They offer more flexibility, faster deployment, and can be customized with skid units, lighting, storage, communication gear, and more — all tailored to a department’s mission. Whether you're facing wildfires, grass fires, or remote emergency situations, a brush truck is an essential tool for frontline fire protection in rural and wildland environments.