Professionals in many different industries rely on trucks to complete important tasks each day. A work truck can be a great asset to your business, but only if you select a truck that is equipped to meet your needs.

It's important that you don't get caught up in the advertising hype surrounding work trucks. Focus on the practical elements of the vehicle instead of the luxury or aesthetic elements, and you will end up with a truck that you can rely on for many years to come.

1. Two or Four-Wheel Drive

The first thing you should consider when looking for a new work truck is whether you can get by with a two-wheel drive, or if you will need a vehicle that is equipped with four-wheel drive capabilities. Opting for four-wheel drive can significantly increase the purchase price of the vehicle, so this is a decision that will have a direct effect on your bottom line.

To determine which type of truck is right for you, identify the road conditions you are faced with on a regular basis. If you are mainly using your work truck to travel on city streets or highways, two-wheel drive will be sufficient. If you need to traverse dirt roads regularly, you will want a work truck equipped with four-wheel drive.

2. Bed Length

Another consideration that should be made when you are shopping for a work truck is the bed length that you will need.

Mid-size work trucks often come equipped with a short bed to help improve gas mileage and allow space for an extended cab. This can be great if you need the extra room for passengers, but it can limit the size of the loads you can place into the truck bed.

Opt for a truck with a long bed if you haul large loads on a regular basis, and a short bed if your work truck is used primarily for transporting people.

3. Towing Capacity

Trucks are designed for towing trailers of all kinds. While all trucks can tow, not all trucks can tow a significant amount. You will need to identify the tongue weight and the total weight of any trailers that you haul for work-related purposes.

Be sure that you check a truck's towing capacity against these weights so that you can avoid serious engine or transmission troubles in the future. It's better to invest in a work truck with a higher towing capacity than you think you will need, just to be on the safe side.