Dump trucks play an essential role in the construction industry. With so many different types of dump trucks available, you’ll need to do your research first before investing in one of these vehicles.

Finding out more information about each variation is the first step toward making an informed decision. Visit Truck & Trailer to discover a range of durable construction vehicles for sale.

What is a dump truck?

Dump trucks feature hydraulic components attached to an open-box bed. The hydraulics are used to elevate the open-box bed so that its contents fall onto the ground.

Dump trucks are available in a wide range of variations, which makes it easy to find one that matches the requirements of your business precisely. The size of the truck, as well as your budget, are two factors you’ll need to consider when you’re making a decision.

What are dump trucks used for?

Dump trucks are used to transport materials from one location to another. They play an important role in the construction industry where they can be used to relocate the following materials:

• Sand
• Gravel
• Demolition waste

The application you’ll be using the dump truck for will play a role in your selection of the type of truck that you invest in.

What are the different types of dump trucks?

1. Standard dump truck

A standard dump truck is a popular option for businesses in the construction industry. An advantage of this type of truck is that it offers the driver good manoeuverability. The downside of this model is that it’s not suitable for building sites where there is soft soil.

The standard model consists of a truck chassis and a dump body. A vertical hydraulic ram is used to lift the truck bed. You’ll have the option of choosing between a six-wheeler or ten-wheeler model depending on the requirements of your projects.

2. Side dump trucks

Looking for a dump truck that gets the job done quickly? A side dump truck may be the model that you’re after. These types of trucks are quick to unload. If you have large amounts of materials to move, investing in these trucks is advantageous. The large capacity of side dump trucks sets them apart from their competition.

The defining characteristic of this variation is that the open-box leans to the side so that its contents fall onto the ground. Another benefit of these trucks is that they have a decreased risk of tipping over, which makes them a safer option.

However, side dump trucks are more challenging to manoeuver. Their limited agility means that they’re not suitable for some applications. Their components include a 3-axle tractor that hauls a 2-axle semi-trailer.

3. Transfer dump truck

The components of this variation include a standard dump truck, which is hauled by a separate trailer featuring a moveable cargo container. These trucks can be used to move building materials including:

• Asphalt
• Gravel
• Wood chips
• Sand
• Snow

Transfer dump trucks are designed to optimise load capacities without compromising the agility of the truck.

4. Superdump truck

Owning a superdump truck is advantageous if you’re working on large projects since these models offer you an impressive payload. The result is enhanced efficiency and increased productivity on your construction site. This vehicle is usually comprised of a standard dump truck with a trailing axle.

The addition, the trailing axle increases the length of the vehicle, which boosts the weight that it’s able to carry. A superdump truck is well-suited to transporting asphalt and concrete paving. When the truck isn’t being used to move materials, the trailing axle can be removed to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle and therefore its drivability.

5. Semi-trailer bottom dump truck

This type of truck is made up of a 3-axle tractor hauling a 2-axle trailer. A defining aspect of this variation is its clam shell design, which offers more control over the hauled materials.

The main advantage of these dump trucks is that they make it possible to place material in a linear heap. Another option is the cross-spread design, which distributes the materials evenly.

Now that you know more about the different types of dump trucks, you can decide which model is best for your business. You can find durable dump trucks for sale on Truck & Trailer.