The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Right Dump Truck

02 Jul.,2024

 

The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Right Dump Truck

Dump trucks come in all different shapes and sizes, axle requirements, engine types, body styles, materials, and even your dump truck&#;s transmission are all factors that need to be considered. Luckily, this article breaks it all down for you, starting with, what is a dump truck? 

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In this article, we will cover the different parts of dump trucks, the best place to buy a dump truck, the best dump truck brands and model plus their specs. 

What is a dump truck?

A dump truck, known also as a dumping truck, dump trailer, dumper trailer, dump lorry, or dumper lorry or a dumper for short, is used for transporting materials (such as dirt, gravel, or demolition waste) for construction as well as coal.

A typical dump truck is equipped with an open-box bed, which is hinged at the rear and equipped with hydraulic rams to lift the front, allowing the material in the bed to be deposited (&#;dumped&#;) on the ground behind the truck at the site of delivery. 

Dump Truck Specs, Features, and Requirements

When evaluating your needs for a dump truck it is crucial to take the time to research the legal requirements for a dump truck. This section will touch on just a few of the key things you need to be aware of to make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck.

Here are the top criteria when buying a dump truck.

Dump Truck Axle Requirements

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) specifies the maximum operating weight for a dump truck, including the chassis, body, engine, fuel, operator, and cargo load. Federal laws are in place to protect highways and bridges from excessive damage caused by vehicle weight. These limits are based on the number of axles on the truck, with fewer axles allowing for a lower weight limit.

Specific GVWR requirements vary by state. For your state-specific requirements, please visit the USDOT. 

Please note the USDOT has exemptions for certain vehicle types.

Super Dumps are a popular option for those looking for higher weight limits. They have four to seven total axles and can legally carry payloads ranging from 19-26 tons. They can carry payloads equal to trailers and transfers while maintaining the maneuverability and quick turnaround time of a standard tandem dump truck, making them the most productive and profitable dump truck on the road.

Dump Truck Engine Types

Dump truck engines come with various power outputs, ranging from 300 to 600 horsepower. It is important not to overestimate the requirements and purchase more horsepower than needed, as this will increase operational costs. The weight of the load being carried should be considered when matching the engine to the truck.

Certain manufacturers use different dump truck engines, below is a list of the most popular dump truck brands and the engines they most commonly use. 

  • Freightliner:

    Detroit DD13, Detroit DD8, Cummins L9, Cummins X12

  • Kenworth: PACCAR Powertrain
  • Peterbilt: PACCAR Powertrain
  • Mack Trucks: MP 7 and MP 8
  • Western Star:

    Detroit DD13, Detroit DD15, Detroit DD16, Detroit Series 60

  • Volvo: Volvo D11, Volvo D13
  • International:

    Cummins B6.8, Cummins L9, International A26

Dump Truck Body Styles

Dump trucks come in various body styles, each with its own strengths and limitations. The three most common body styles available on the market are traditional rectangle, half-round, and semi-elliptical. 

The traditional rectangle dump truck style provides the most room on the floor of the bed, making it an ideal choice for carrying heavy loads. Its low center of gravity offers strength and agility, making it a popular option among dump truck buyers.

The half-round dump truck style, on the other hand, offers greater resistance to impact because the steel is shaped into a semi-circle. It is also lighter than the traditional rectangle and can carry a greater payload. 

The shape of the half-round body style also prevents materials from sticking to the floor, making the dump cycle cleaner. However, the half-round style is not suitable for hauling equipment or pallets in the bed since it is not flat.

The semi-elliptical dump truck style is considered a hybrid between the traditional rectangle and the half-round body styles. It offers floors similar to the conventional rectangle but has a haul shape like the half-round. This style is a good option for those looking for a compromise between the two types.

Dump Truck Body Materials

When choosing the metal for a dump truck, it is important to consider the nature of the task it will be used for. The two main options available are steel and aluminum. Steel is ideal for carrying materials that are more abrasive, such as asphalt, gravel, and concrete, as it offers better protection than aluminum. Depending on the application, it comes in many grades, ranging from A-36 to AR-450 or AR-500.

Aluminum, on the other hand, is a good choice when carrying non-abrasive materials because it is lighter in weight. It provides a greater payload capacity and offers more protection against corrosion. However, it is more expensive than steel and has higher repair costs.

Manual vs. Automatic vs. Integrated Transmission

Dump truck transmission options, including manual, automatic, and integrated automated manual transmissions. A manual transmission offers more gear options, providing better maneuverability and the ability to match engine speed with the task at hand. 

An automatic transmission does not offer this advantage but causes less operator fatigue during long-haul jobs. An integrated automated manual transmission is becoming popular with dump truck buyers as it offers efficient energy expenditure and a comfortable operating experience.

Best Online Sites For Dump Trucks

Choosing the right dump truck site is an important part of the purchase experience. You should be offered valuable customer support, financing options, and expertise in evaluating specs to help you find the most suitable equipment.

Commercial Truck Trader

Commercial Truck Trader is a popular website for buying and selling commercial vehicles, including dump trucks. You can search by make, model, location, and other criteria to find the right dump truck for your needs.

Shop Dump Truck on Commercial Truck Trader.

Truck Paper

Truck Paper is another online marketplace that specializes in commercial vehicles, including dump trucks. You can browse their inventory of new and used dump trucks and filter your search by location, price, and other factors.

Shop Dump Truck on Truck Paper.

Construction Equipment Guide

Construction Equipment Guide is a website that covers news and information about the construction industry. They also have a classifieds section where you can find dump trucks for sale.

Shop Dump Truck on Construction Equipment Guide.

Richie List

Richie List is a global marketplace for buying and selling used equipment and machinery, including dump trucks. You can search their inventory by location, price, and other criteria to find the right dump truck for your needs.

Shop Dump Truck on Richie List.

Rock & Dirt

Rock & Dirt is an online marketplace for heavy equipment, including dump trucks. They have a wide selection of new and used dump trucks for sale from dealers and private sellers across the country.

Shop Dump Truck on Rock & Dirt.

Truckntrailer

Truckntrailer is an online marketplace for commercial vehicles, including dump trucks. You can browse their inventory and filter your search by location, price, and other factors to find the right dump truck for your needs.

Shop Dump Truck on TrucknTrailer.

The Bottomline

Commercial Truck Trader and Truck Paper are sites you may have heard of, these two are the most popular sites, but that doesn&#;t mean you won&#;t find your dream dump truck on any of the other sites.

Now that you know; what to look for in a dump truck and where to find dump trucks for sale, it&#;s time to get into specific brands of dump trucks and their most popular makes and models.

Best Dump Truck Brands

Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, and Mack Trucks each make their own series of dump trucks. Whether you are looking for a new dump truck or a used dump truck for sale, all of these brands offer high-quality options. 

7. International Trucks

There&#;s a new breed of vocational truck that redefines the standard for uptime and productivity. Introducing the new International HV Series. Redesigned from the inside out, the interior was crafted with driver and body company feedback to ensure the most comfortable and productive environment possible, while the exterior continues the powerful styling of the WorkStar. 

  • Cab Options: Day Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab

  • Transmission: Automatic, Manual, Automated Manual

  • Engine: Cummins B6.8 (200-360 HP, 520-800lb.-ft. torque), Cummins L9 (260-450 HP, 720-lb.-ft. torque), International A26 (365-515 HP, -lb.-ft. torque)

  • Axles: 113&#; BBC Set-Back Front Axle, 113&#; BBC Set-Forward Front Axle, 107&#; BBC Set-Back Front Axle, 107&#; BBC Set-Forward Front Axle

Introducing the new International HX Series. The latest, greatest, biggest, baddest, toughest, most premium, precision sledgehammer. Built to endure, thrive and dominate any assignment, the HX Series can handle whatever you throw at it. And just like you, the HX Series can take it on the chin and keep moving forward until the job is pinned down into submission &#; all without breaking a sweat.

  • Cab Options: Day Cab or Sleeper Cab

  • Transmission: Automatic, Manual, Automated Manual

  • Engine: International A26 (365-515 HP, -lb.-ft. torque), Cummins X15 (430-605 HP, -lb.-ft. torque), 

  • Axles: 120&#; BBC Set-Forward Front Axle Truck or Tractor, 119&#; BBC Set-Back Front Axle Truck or Tractor

More Information about International Dump Trucks. 

6. Volvo

Volvo Trucks is one of the leading heavy truck and engine manufacturers in the world. Today, Volvo Trucks manufactures a broad line of on-highway and vocational Class 8 vehicles. 

Dump trucks have to be tough, period. If there&#;s a pile of dirt on the job site, you drive over it. If there&#;s a pool of water, you drive through it. And you do it day after day. 

That&#;s exactly the truck Volvo built the Volvo VHD to be. If you didn&#;t know better, you&#;d think it was built out of cast iron with a thousand horses under the hood. It&#;s that strong, rugged, and dependable. In other words, it&#;s just what you need to get the job done.  

The axle-forward VHD 300-day cab is a perfect solution when payload requirements demand a bridge-law complaint wheelbase. It offers an easily customizable chassis, up to nine power take-off options, and a factory-installed piston or gear pump.

The axle-back VHD 300-day cab is ideal for job sites that demand tighter turns. The cab offers amazing visibility for a more panoramic view of the work area. And the axle back configuration offers Volvo&#;s best-turning radius for dump applications.

The VNR 300 cab brings the precise refinement of the driving environment to a lightweight, efficient day cab. The cab interior is thoughtfully organized to keep daily-route drivers productive, comfortable, and happy.

More Information about Volvo Dump Trucks.

5. Western Star Trucks

Western Star has a long history of building Class 8 commercial trucks that deliver more so you can do more. And they upped that commitment in with the Western Star 49X, possibly the best vocational truck ever built. The Western Star&#;s drive to deliver more reached a new level with the new 47X. 

Combined, the X-Series family of trucks breaks new ground in safety, durability, technology, and versatility for heavy haulers, log haulers, over-the-road tractors, boom trucks, dump trucks, mixers, and more. They are purpose-built trucks that can take on anything.

WESTERN STAR 47X

Rugged and highly maneuverable, the Western Star 47X is the solution for applications where visibility, handling, and weight savings are critical.

  • Engine Displacement: 9L to 13L

  • Horsepower/Torque: 260/860 to 525/

  • Bumper to Back of Cab: 111.6&#; (110.8&#; with SF Bumper Bridge Formula Bumper Mounting})

  • Forward Visibility: Best

  • Air Filtration and Dust Capacity: Excellent

  • Max Sleeper Length: 48&#;

  • Turning Radius (20&#; body length): 34.0&#;

WESTERN STAR 49X

Built for the toughest jobs, the Western Star 49X has the components and power to deliver dependable performance in the most demanding conditions.

  • Engine Displacement: 12L to 16L

  • Horsepower/Torque: 350/ to 605/

  • Bumper to Back of Cab: 121.5&#;

  • Forward Visibility: Very Good

    Contact us to discuss your requirements of Construction dump truck. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

  • Air Filtration and Dust Capacity: Best

  • Max Sleeper Length: 72&#;

  • Turning Radius (20&#; body length): 35.4&#;

More Information about Western Star Dump Trucks.

4. Mack Trucks

The Mack Granite is a series of heavy-duty (Class 8) and severe service trucks built by Mack Trucks. It has a long, low-profile hood and a high-visibility cab. The Granite, with its extra heavy-duty chassis, high ground clearance, and high-visibility cab, was designed to be operated on construction job sites. 

Dump trucks are the first standard packages for the Granite Series. Typically 6×4 (three axles, two driven) lift axles are available. Body modifications can add lift axles and extended trailing axles for higher weights.

  • Engine: MP7 or MP8

  • Cab Configuration: Day Cab or 36&#; Sleeper

  • Horsepower/Torque: 325/ to 505/

  • Transmission: Manual, Automatic, or Automated Manual

  • Axles: Front Axles (Mack UniMax Axles with Integrated Hub) or Drive Axles (Meritor &#;S&#; Cam Q-Plus Breaks)

More Information about Mack Dump Trucks.

3. Peterbilt

Peterbilt Motors Company, founded in , is an American manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. A subsidiary of Paccar, which also owns fellow heavy-duty truck manufacturer Kenworth. 

Peterbilt is an iconic trucking brand. Their red oval design script-style lettering logo can be found on trucker clothing, truck hats, and more. Peterbilt makes up about 13 percent market share. Peterbilt is an iconic and beloved trucker brand.

Peterbilt currently manufactures 14 different models of vocational and medium-duty dump trucks, each of which can be customized to fit your exact needs. Their most popular model is the Model 537.

The Peterbilt Model 537 dump truck is dependable, customizable, and incredibly fuel efficient. The 537 is designed to take on your biggest and toughest jobs.

  • Cab Structure: Aluminum Intensive Cab

  • Transmission: PACCAR 8-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Axles: Front Axles (PACCAR 20K, Dana, Meritor, Steertek: 8k-14.6k), Rear Axles: All current carry over

  • Front Suspension & Steering: Mono and Multi Taper Leaf Springs, Rating 8k-20k

  • Rear Suspension: Single Drive 13.5k-31k New PACCAR taper leaf 13.5k and 18k. New PACCAR Air Leaf 18k

More Information about Peterbilt Dump Trucks.

2. Kenworth

 

Kenworth is an American manufacturer of medium and heavy-duty Class 8 trucks with offices based in Kirkland, Washington, a suburb of Seattle. Kenworth is one of three major truck divisions and brands under the parent company PACCAR.

Kenworth has six models of trucks that can be converted to dump trucks. The Kenworth dump truck models are as followed: Kenworth T880 dump truck (most popular), Kenworth W990 dump truck, Kenworth W900 dump truck (limited edition), Kenworth T180/T280 dump truck, Kenworth T380/T480 & C500 dump trucks.

With the T880, you&#;ve got a dependable, versatile vehicle capable of performing your toughest jobs. Day in, day out. A truck designed at its core with the strength, stamina, and operating economy you need to move your business ahead. 

Bulk tractor. Tanker. Dump truck. Mixer. Heavy hauler. Refuse truck. Logger. The next time your job requires maximum effort, dispatch the one truck that&#;s equipped to handle it: your Kenworth T880.

  • Engine: PACCAR MX-13

  • Horsepower: 405-510

  • Torque: -lb.-ft

  • Transmission: PACCAR Automated Transmission 12-speed, Allison Automatic

More Information about Kenworth Dump Trucks.

1. Freightliner

Freightliner is America&#;s most popular and best-selling semi-trucks. They also make several models of severe and vocational dump trucks. 

Construction-industry professionals know the value of a quality, dependable, low-maintenance dump truck that can take on any task. Freightliner dump trucks are rigorously tested to ensure quality and longevity, increasing productivity on any job site and helping you get the job done on time and within budget.

Currently, Freightliner makes the EM2, M2 106 Plus, 114 SD Plus (most popular), 108 SD Plus, and the Econic SD. 

  • Engine: Detroit DD13, Detroit DD8, Cummins L9, Cummins X12

  • Transmission: Automatic, Manual, Automated Manual

  • Cab Options: Day Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab

  • Horsepower: 260-525

  • Torque: 720-lb.-ft

More Information about Freightliner Dump Trucks.

The Bottomline

The top 3 most popular dump truck brands are Freightliner, Kenworth, and Peterbilt. Each of these manufacturers is rated very highly within the industry and for good reason. They&#;re known for their innovation and reconfiguration of existing trucks to make them that much better.

How To Finance A Dump Truck

Looking for a dump truck for sale and need to get dump truck financing? Whether you purchase a Peterbilt, Kenworth, Mack truck, or any other brand of dump truck, TopMark Funding has a dump truck lease or dump truck loan for you!

Deciding whether to get a dump truck lease or dump truck loan? We here at TopMark Funding specialize in dump truck financing and have practical knowledge about titling, registration, insurance, warranties, etc. Having a partner like TopMark Funding is crucial to your success and growth in the commercial trucking industry.

We have been helping small business owners like yourself grow fleets and increase revenue by offering dump truck financing with good credit, or even bad credit. We can tailor a dump truck lease/ loan to fit your budget with the monthly payments you want.

Apply today for a free, no-obligation dump truck financing quote. Our application process is straightforward, fast, and easy. Don&#;t worry, we do a soft inquiry on your credit. No hard inquiries and no negative impact on your personal or business credit score.

ABOUT TOPMARK FUNDING

TopMark Funding is a top-rated semi-truck financing and trailer financing company located in Roseville, CA. We specialize in commercial trucking and heavy equipment. Our mission is to become your long-term financial partner by helping you grow your trucking business and fleet.

We&#;re not here for the short term, we&#;re on the long haul with you!

We have financing options for trailers, semi-trucks, commercial trucks, and small businesses. We have great rates, low down payments, and flexible monthly payments regardless of credit history.

Learn more about Trailer Financing.

Fill out the contact form or give us a call at (866) 627-. One of our truck financing specialists will contact you as soon as possible to go over your truck lease needs and learn more about you and your business financing goals.

Types of Dump Trucks and Selecting the Best Fit for Your ...

Insight - 77 Min read

February 18,

Dump trucks play a crucial role in various industries, including construction, mining, and waste management. Understanding their importance and choosing the right type for your business can significantly impact your operations' efficiency and success. In this article, we will explore the different types of dump trucks available and discuss the factors to consider when selecting the best fit for your business.

Understanding the Importance of Dump Trucks in Your Business

Dump trucks play a vital role in construction and mining projects, facilitating the transportation of materials and debris. These heavy-duty vehicles are designed to carry and unload large quantities of loose materials, such as soil, gravel, sand, and rocks. By efficiently moving materials to and from the job site, dump trucks contribute to increased productivity and streamlined operations.

In the waste management industry, dump trucks are essential for collecting and disposing of waste materials. They enable waste management companies to transport garbage, recyclables, and other waste products from residential, commercial, and industrial areas to disposal facilities. The efficient operation of dump trucks in waste management significantly impacts cleanliness, environmental sustainability, and public health.

When it comes to construction and mining, dump trucks play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of these industries. In construction projects, dump trucks are used to transport materials such as aggregate, concrete, asphalt, and dirt. They enable construction crews to efficiently move materials to where they are needed, minimizing manual labour and enhancing productivity. Additionally, dump trucks equipped with hydraulic lifts allow for easy unloading, reducing the time and effort required to offload materials.

In the mining industry, dump trucks are crucial for the transportation of minerals, rocks, and other extracted materials. These trucks are specially designed to handle the demands of mining operations, such as carrying tremendous loads over long distances and challenging terrains. Dump trucks in mining ensure that extracted materials are efficiently transported to processing facilities, contributing to the overall efficiency of mining operations.

But the importance of dump trucks doesn't end there. In waste management operations, dump trucks significantly contribute to the efficiency of the entire process. Waste management involves collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste materials effectively. Dump trucks, with their large capacity and specialized features, play a vital role in this process.

Dump trucks used in waste management are specifically designed to accommodate large volumes of waste materials. These trucks often feature open-top containers or hydraulic systems that allow for easy loading and unloading of waste. By efficiently collecting and transporting waste, dump trucks help maintain cleanliness in residential areas, businesses, and public spaces.

Furthermore, dump trucks play a crucial role in recycling operations. They facilitate the transportation of recyclable materials from collection points to recycling facilities, contributing to the reduction of waste sent to landfills and promoting environmental sustainability. The efficiency of dump trucks in waste management ensures that waste collection and disposal processes are carried out promptly, preventing potential health hazards and environmental pollution.

In conclusion, dump trucks are indispensable in various industries, including construction, mining, and waste management. They enable the efficient transportation of materials and waste, contributing to increased productivity, cleanliness, and environmental sustainability. Whether it's moving heavy loads on construction sites, transporting extracted materials in mining operations, or facilitating waste collection and recycling, dump trucks are essential for the smooth operation of businesses and the overall well-being of communities.

An Overview of Different Types of Dump Trucks

There are various types of dump trucks available, each designed to meet specific industry requirements and operational challenges. Understanding the features and benefits of these different types can help you select the most suitable dump truck for your business needs.

When it comes to the world of dump trucks, there is a wide range of options to choose from. From standard dump trucks to articulated dump trucks, transfer dump trucks to side dump trucks and off-road dump trucks, each type has its own unique features and advantages. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Standard Dump Trucks: Features and Benefits

Standard dump trucks, also known as rigid dump trucks, are the most common type used in many industries. These trucks consist of a cab and a trailer attached to a rigid frame. They are equipped with a hydraulic system that allows for easy lifting and tilting of the trailer, enabling efficient loading and unloading of materials.

Standard dump trucks offer several benefits, including versatility, simplicity, and ease of maintenance. They are well-suited for a wide range of construction and hauling tasks, making them a reliable choice for many businesses. Additionally, due to their widespread use, standard dump trucks often have a larger resale market, making it easier to find replacement parts and support.

Articulated Dump Trucks: When to Use Them

Articulated dump trucks, also known as ADTs, are designed for off-road applications and challenging terrains. These trucks feature a hinge between the cab and the trailer, allowing for better manoeuvrability and stability on uneven surfaces. Articulated dump trucks are commonly used in mining, quarrying, and large-scale construction projects.

One of the key advantages of articulated dump trucks is their ability to navigate through tight spaces and difficult terrains. The articulated joint between the cab and trailer allows for enhanced manoeuvrability, making them ideal for operations in confined areas. Additionally, the excellent weight distribution of ADTs ensures better stability, reducing the risk of accidents in challenging environments.

Transfer Dump Trucks: Pros and Cons

Transfer dump trucks, also known as slam-bang trucks or triple-trailer dump trucks, are unique in their design. These trucks feature a trailer with a movable cargo container that can be unloaded by raising the front end and quickly sliding the container backwards. Transfer dump trucks are commonly used for hauling materials in construction and mining.

One of the main advantages of transfer dump trucks is their ability to carry significantly larger loads compared to standard dump trucks. The multiple trailers allow for increased carrying capacity, making them efficient for large-scale projects. However, transfer dump trucks are more complicated to operate and maintain, requiring skilled and experienced drivers.

Read Also: Everything You Need to Know About Articulated Trucks

Side Dump Trucks: Unique Advantages

Side dump trucks are designed to unload materials by tilting the truck bed to the side. This unique dumping mechanism offers several advantages over traditional rear dump trucks. Side dump trucks are commonly used in construction, agriculture, and hauling operations that require precise unloading, such as tunnel construction and roadwork.

The main advantage of side dump trucks is their ability to unload materials in a linear fashion, allowing for precise and controlled placement. This is particularly useful when working in narrow spaces or alongside existing structures. Additionally, the side dumping mechanism reduces the risk of the truck tipping over during unloading, enhancing safety and efficiency.

Off-Road Dump Trucks: Ideal for Tough Terrains

Off-road dump trucks, also known as quarry trucks or haul trucks, are specifically designed for rugged terrains and extreme conditions. These trucks are built to handle heavy loads in demanding environments, such as mining sites, quarries, and large construction projects.

Off-road dump trucks typically feature larger wheels and a robust suspension system to navigate through challenging terrains with ease. They are capable of carrying massive loads over long distances and steep inclines, making them ideal for operations that involve hauling materials in off-road settings. These trucks often come equipped with advanced safety features to ensure stability and minimize the risk of accidents in demanding working conditions.

As you can see, each type of dump truck has its own unique features and advantages. Whether you need a versatile standard dump truck, a maneuverable articulated dump truck, a high-capacity transfer dump truck, a precise side dump truck, or a rugged off-road dump truck, there is a perfect option out there for your business needs. Consider your requirements and operational challenges to make an informed decision and maximize the efficiency of your operations.

For more Mining dump truckinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Dump Truck for Your Business