I said "dreaming" and not "analytical decision."

Ten year old wants a dump truck.

Grown-up me knows that a truck purchase is more than buying a work vehicle. You're investing big cash into the heavy iron that makes the most money for your business and family. But let's face it, the truck becomes a family car at some point. Indeed, it's nothing less than our lifeline between work and family.

If grown-up me bought a dump truck, it'd be this bed http://www.abctruck.com/catalog/rugged_american_landscaper.asp on a crew cab Isuzu truck—and it would make sense. A crew cab enables me to lug office stuff, tools, and crew inside. A long, cubic bed means I can carry materials efficiently, whether it's a deck package or roof tear-off. I can even section it off. On the other hand, I have to park it at home. And while I may even be able to sub myself out to other builder for their hauling—hooray multiple revenue streams--it's a lot of truck to use for getting a tube of caulk.

That leads me to truck-and-trailer. While gas prices are ionosphereic, I've tried contracting from a small pick-up and there isn't enough room. The last time I shopped for pick-ups my favorite was the extra cab GMC Sierra/Chevy Silverado 1500. www.Cheverolet.comwww.GMC.com But it's not enough truck for all the material I move so I need a trailer.

I own a 12 foot Star utility trailer and it's incredible, but with the increasing number of gut jobs I do a Bri-Mar dump trailer http://www.bri-mar.com/trailermenu.php looks like a great call.

But the dump truck is a billboard (I think that's 10 year old me talking). And you can use a compact pick-up for all the little things, estimates, and driving your real kids to school.

Bottom line, grown-up all of us need a truck situation that makes the most money and best serves company and customers. What works for you?