Commercial dump trucks are an essential component of the construction and transportation industries, designed for easily hauling and unloading large volumes of materials. Typically employed for moving dirt, sand, gravel, or demolition waste, these robust vehicles come in various configurations to meet the diverse needs of job sites and materials.

Let’s look at four different types of commercial dump trucks and their unique features and functions.

Standard Dump Truck

The standard dump truck, or the conventional or rigid-body dump truck, is the most common commercial dump truck used today. It consists of a chassis with a mounted open-box bed or body that you can raise at the front end to deposit its contents onto the ground behind it. The bed is hinged at the rear end and equipped with hydraulic rams that allow it to tilt up to 45 degrees from the horizontal.

Features and Functions

The standard dump truck typically has a capacity of 10–15 cubic yards, making it ideal for smaller construction projects or transportation of loose materials. Its strong chassis and payload capacity can also help haul heavy machinery and equipment. The raised bed also allows for easy dumping of materials, making it a versatile vehicle for various job sites.

Articulated Dump Truck

The articulated dump truck, also known as the ADT or dump hauler, is a unique commercial dump truck with two sections connected by a pivot joint. This difference enables the front section to articulate or pivot about the rear section, providing increased maneuverability and stability on uneven terrain.

Features and Functions

The ADT has a significantly larger capacity than the standard dump truck, ranging from 25-40 cubic yards. Its ability to navigate rough terrains makes it perfect for mining and off-road construction projects. The articulation also helps distribute weight evenly, reducing the risk of tipping over when hauling heavy loads.

Transfer Dump Truck

The transfer dump truck, a slam-bang or semi-bottom dump truck, is a versatile vehicle with multiple trailers that can be attached and detached from the main body. The bed of the transfer dump truck can be raised at an angle while simultaneously opening the rear gate, allowing you to deposit materials into the attached trailer.

Features and Functions

The transfer dump truck has a high capacity of up to 50 cubic yards, making it useful for large-scale construction projects. Its ability to switch out trailers and dump multiple loads in one trip increases efficiency and saves time and money. It is also suitable for transporting different materials separately without contamination.

Each type of commercial dump truck offers specialized features to handle particular situations and materials in the construction and transportation industries. From the highly maneuverable standard dump truck perfect for smaller projects to the robust articulated dump truck that thrives in challenging off-road conditions and the transfer dump truck with its high-capacity multisite hauling, these vehicles are designed to meet specific requirements. Understanding the capabilities and functions of these different trucks is crucial for industry professionals to ensure efficiency, safety, and the successful completion of various construction and transportation projects.

If you need custom dump truck beds for your specific needs, HFI Truck Center has you covered. We offer a range of options and can help you find the perfect truck for your job site. Get in touch with us today to learn more.