HERD is one of North America’s leading manufacturers of vehicle guard systems, specializing in heavy-duty protection solutions for trucks and commercial vehicles. Known for its Bumper Guards, Grille Guards, Pickup Truck Guards, and Truck Guards, the company has built a reputation for durability, customer service, and tailored fitments. While HERD products are designed for robust environments, their installation and customization require careful planning, professional expertise, and an understanding of logistics and vehicle-specific requirements.
This article explores the HERD bumper installation process, customization options, and insights from customer experiences, all based on information from HERD’s official documentation and user reports.
Overview of HERD Bumper Systems
HERD has been manufacturing vehicle protection systems since 2003. The company distinguishes itself by offering four distinct product lines tailored to different vehicle types and needs:
- Bumper Guards: Reinforced structures designed to replace or augment existing bumpers.
- Grille Guards: Partial or full coverage options to protect the front of the vehicle, including radiators and lights.
- Pickup Truck Guards: Customized solutions for pickup trucks, often including integrated winch mounts and bumper systems.
- Truck Guards: Comprehensive protection for commercial and heavy-duty trucks.
HERD’s approach emphasizes both durability and aesthetics, with an array of finishes and mounting options available. As noted in user reports, many HERD bumpers replace the factory bumper entirely, integrating into the vehicle’s frame for a secure and long-lasting fit.
Installation Process and Professional Services
Installation of a HERD bumper is not a typical DIY project. Given the complexity and weight of the systems, professional installation is strongly recommended. User reports indicate that installation times can vary between 4 to 5 hours, depending on the vehicle and the specific HERD product being installed.
One user shared an experience in which a HERD bumper was installed in Winnipeg by the company’s in-house team. According to the report, the owner of the installation facility provided a personal vehicle for the duration of the 5-hour installation, which reflects the level of customer service HERD aims to deliver.
The installation process involves several key steps:
- Vehicle Inspection and Preparation: Before installation, the vehicle is inspected for compatibility and any existing modifications that might affect the fit.
- Disassembly of Existing Bumper: The factory bumper is carefully removed to avoid damage to surrounding components such as lights, sensors, and body panels.
- Mounting and Integration: The HERD bumper is bolted into place using frame-mounted brackets. In some cases, welding may be required for full integration with the vehicle's structure.
- Testing and Final Adjustments: After installation, the bumper is tested for stability and alignment. Additional components such as auxiliary lights or winch mounts are added if required.
Due to the extensive labor and technical knowledge required, users are advised to seek out certified HERD dealers or professional installation centers. The company offers dealer access and provides contact information for customer service and technical support via phone and email.
Customization and Compatibility
HERD products are designed to be vehicle-specific, meaning each bumper, grille guard, and truck guard is tailored to the make, model, and year of the vehicle. This ensures a precise fit without the need for extensive modifications or adjustments.
The customization process involves the following considerations:
- Vehicle Type: HERD offers separate product lines for pickups, commercial trucks, and heavy-duty applications. Each product is engineered to meet the specific structural and functional requirements of these vehicle types.
- Mounting Options: HERD bumpers typically feature frame-mounted brackets for secure installation. Some models may include provisions for pintle hooks, winch mounts, or auxiliary lighting.
- Finish and Aesthetics: While the provided source material does not mention specific finish options, user reports suggest that chrome or powder-coated finishes are commonly available, especially through third-party installers or custom shops.
It is important to note that HERD does not ship to private residences or P.O. boxes. Instead, orders must be delivered to a business location equipped with a loading dock and forklift. This requirement ensures safe and efficient delivery of the heavy and bulky components, which are often shipped directly to a warehouse or dealer location.
Customer Experiences and Practical Considerations
Customer feedback provides valuable insight into the performance and practicality of HERD bumper systems. One user reported that after installing a HERD bumper, their vehicle was able to withstand a collision with a deer. The damage was minimal, with only a small crack in the grill, a bent tag bracket, and some trim loss. This experience highlights the effectiveness of HERD bumpers in real-world scenarios.
Another user shared that they were able to save over $600 by purchasing through a local chrome shop (Pink Lightning) rather than directly from HERD. The total cost of the bumper, including installation, was just over $3000. This suggests that while HERD products are generally high-quality and durable, cost savings may be possible through third-party dealers or installers.
Users also noted that the installation process is time-intensive and may require the use of specialized tools and equipment. Some installations took up to two months to build and approximately 4–5 hours to complete. This highlights the importance of planning and scheduling, especially for commercial fleets or business owners who rely on their vehicles for daily operations.
Shipping, Logistics, and Dealer Access
HERD maintains a strict shipping policy, requiring all deliveries to be made to a business location with a loading dock and forklift. This policy is outlined in the company’s dealer access and contact pages, which emphasize the need for professional handling of large and heavy components. For customers without access to such facilities, arrangements can be made to ship the order to a nearby warehouse or commercial location. HERD recommends contacting customer service for assistance with logistics and delivery options.
For businesses or fleet operators, HERD offers dealer access programs, which may include volume pricing, exclusive product access, and dedicated technical support. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to HERD’s customer service team via phone or email for more information.
Conclusion
HERD bumper systems are engineered for durability, precision, and performance in demanding environments. Installation of these systems is a complex and time-sensitive process that requires professional expertise and vehicle-specific customization. While the company provides extensive product lines and customer support, users must be prepared for the logistical and financial considerations involved, including shipping restrictions, installation costs, and dealer coordination.
For commercial operators and heavy-duty vehicle owners, HERD bumpers offer a reliable and customizable solution for collision protection. With a reputation for quality and customer service, HERD remains a top choice for those seeking robust vehicle protection in the North American market.