With the introduction of the C-series in 1934, International greatly expanded its truck lineup to include 33 variations on 15 basic models. The C-1 was also the first light-duty pickup that IHC built on its own. It shared the same wheelbase and six-cylinder engine of its Willys-built D-1 predecessor; however, IHC had purchased the patents and tooling for the motor and began building the trucks in its factories. The C-1 shared features that were common with cars of the era, including clamshell front fenders, a vee'd grille, and a modestly canted windshield—all of which made for one good-looking pickup truck. Wider doors made for easier entry and exit, while a ventilator on the cowl and a swing-out windshield made the interior much more comfortable during the summer days.
While the ½-ton truck was IHC's most popular offering, the light-duty chassis was used as a platform for special bodies, such as wood station wagons, panel trucks, and canopy expresses. At the end of the production run in 1936, 80,000 C-line trucks had been built at International's Springfield, Ohio plant, enabling IHC to regain its position as the third-ranked U.S. truck manufacturer. Incidentally, International trucks were marketed worldwide.