Box Truck Windows: Repair vs. Replacement

Flash Auto Glass • June 20, 2025

Box Truck Window Repair & Replacement: What You Need to Know

Box trucks are commercial vehicles with a large, enclosed cargo area directly mounted on a chassis. They’re also known as straight trucks or cube trucks. Some use them as moving trucks, and the rental trucks you see would qualify.

If you manage a fleet that includes box trucks, you know how important visibility and safety are—and how damaged auto glass can put your box truck out of commission and create a serious issue. When this problem arises, you might wonder, “Should I repair the auto glass or replace it?”

In this blog, we’ll break down when a repair will do the job, when it’s time for a replacement, and how to make the best choice for your business or vehicle.

Why Window Damage Matters on Box Trucks

Like other pieces of heavy equipment, box trucks are commercial workhorses. They’re used for deliveries, moving services, logistics, and more. So, a damaged window or windshield isn’t just an inconvenience; it can:

Obstruct the driver's visibility
Compromise the safety of your vehicle and cargo
Violate DOT regulations or inspection standards
Lead to leaks, wind noise, or security concerns

It doesn’t matter which pane of glass on your box truck has been damaged—addressing it quickly is crucial.

When Can a Window Be Repaired?

In many cases, small chips or cracks can be repaired. Side or rear glass is typically made from one piece of tempered glass, unlike windshields, which are layers of laminated glass.

Below are some general guidelines for determining whether damaged auto glass is repairable:

The crack is shorter than 6 inches
The chip is smaller than a quarter
The damage is not spreading or “spidering”
The glass is laminated (not tempered)
The damage is not in the driver’s direct line of sight

It’s essential to have a professional auto glass technician inspect the damage on your box truck. Some box trucks use different types of glass, depending on the manufacturer. A professional can determine if the glass is repairable based on the type and severity of the damage.

When Is Replacement the Better Option?

If the damage is too large, too deep, or in a critical location, it may not be safe—or even possible—to repair. When that happens, window replacement is the only responsible option.

You will likely need to replace the glass if:

The crack is longer than 6 inches
The glass is shattered, heavily chipped, or missing pieces
The damage is in the driver’s field of view
The window has already been repaired once and cracked again
The glass is tempered, which can’t be repaired—only replaced

Don’t forget that the rear and side windows on box trucks are often tempered glass, which breaks into small pieces upon impact. If you experienced this, then replacement is mandatory.

The Repair & Replacement Process

Both repair and replacement start with a proper assessment. A certified glass technician will inspect the damage and help you choose the safest, most cost-effective route.

The Repair Process

Clean and prep the damaged area
Inject special resin into the chip or crack
Cure the resin with UV light
Polish the area to restore clarity and strength

The Replacement Process

Carefully remove the damaged glass
Clean the frame and remove old adhesive
Fit and seal the new glass using industry-standard adhesives
Allow proper curing time (usually an hour)
Perform ADAS calibration (if your box truck has Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

What Does It Cost to Repair or Replace Box Truck Windows?

Repairs are significantly cheaper than replacements. A repair typically costs between $75 and $150, depending on the location and severity of the damage. Replacements vary more widely depending on the size and shape of the window, but you can expect a replacement to cost at least $200.