Dee Zee, Inc.
ActiveOverview
Dee Zee, Inc. manufactures truck accessories including toolboxes, running boards, nerf bars, bed mats, bull bars, racks, bumpers, and mud flaps. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, the company supplies products to the automotive aftermarket and serves as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for major brands such as Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota. It operates from facilities totaling over one million square feet dedicated to manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, and shipping.
History
Dee Zee was founded in 1977 and has remained a family-owned business with roots in Central Iowa. It established itself as a key player in the truck accessory market, becoming known as the world's largest manufacturer of running boards and side steps. The company expanded to support OEM partnerships with major automakers and maintains operations across seven buildings in Des Moines.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Running Boards & Nerf Bars | Durable step accessories for trucks | $200 - $800 |
| Truck Toolboxes | Secure storage solutions for truck beds | $300 - $1,200 |
| Bed Mats & Accessories | Protective liners and organizers | $100 - $400 |
| Bull Bars & Brush Guards | Front-end protection for off-road use | $400 - $900 |
| Mud Flaps | Debris protection for wheels | $50 - $150 |
| Racks & Bumpers | Cargo and impact protection | $300 - $1,000 |
Manufacturing
The majority of products are manufactured and packaged in Des Moines, Iowa, across seven buildings exceeding one million square feet. Supplied parts come from American vendors. The company integrates LEAN practices, source reduction, recycling, and holds ISO 14001 certification.
Notable Products
- Running Boards - Side steps positioned as the world's largest manufactured line for truck access.
- Truck Toolboxes - Aluminum storage units for secure bed transport.
- Bed Mats - Protective mats fitting various truck models.
- Nerf Bars - Tubular side bars for step and protection.
- Bull Bars - Front grille guards for impact resistance.
Reputation
Dee Zee is recognized among truck owners and professionals for reliable, American-made accessories with strong OEM ties to major automakers. Enthusiasts appreciate the durability of products like running boards and toolboxes for daily and off-road use. It lacks BBB accreditation, which some consumers note in reviews, though operational scale and longevity since 1977 support its established market position.