The National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) says 163 distributor and manufacturer members have achieved Member Verification Program (MVP) status as of Oct 1, 2005. Eighty-six members qualified in the first round announced July 1, and an additional 77 members were qualified as of October 1.
The MVP was approved by the NTEA Board of Trustees in March 2005. Applications for verification status were accepted from members beginning in May. Members will be able to submit applications any time through the year, and those qualifying for MVP status will be announced on a quarterly basis.
To qualify, truck equipment manufacturers and distributors must meet criteria that are key to providing quality products and vehicles. For example, vehicle upfitters must provide proof that they are attempting to comply with specific regulatory requirements necessary for the manufacture of trucks. They must also demonstrate that they have adequate liability insurance coverage, a quality program, and ASE-certified mechanics or certified welders. Body and equipment manufacturers have similar requirements for insurance coverage, quality programs, and certified employees and must also verify that they provide installation instructions for their products and that they have a warranty policy to address product defects. In total, all verified members must provide proof that they meet four of five criteria.
Over time, the NTEA will increase program requirements to encourage even higher standards through set criteria that must be met in order to continue to qualify for MVP status. Members must requalify every three years to maintain MVP status.
For a complete listing of MVPs or to learn more about the program, visit www.ntea.com.