Dump Trucks: Everything You Need to Know
Michael Collado is a car buying expert and has been a professional automotive writer since 2009. He’s written about dealership sales, vehicle reviews and comparisons, and service and maintenance for over 100 national automotive dealerships. Previously, Collado was a copywriter at the ad agency TBWA/Chiat/Day where he worked on brand campaigns for Nissan, ABC Television, Sony PlayStation, and Energizer. His recognition in the ad industry includes awards from Communication Arts and The Clios.
Collado has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Marketing.
With so many different types of those big yellow trucks, how do you pick the right one?
Dump trucks are one of the most effective ways of moving and disposing of items via a moving vehicle. If you wanted to know about all the types of dump trucks that are available, then we're ready to help you out.
Here’s a breakdown of the different types of dump trucks and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Table of Contents
What Is a Dump Truck?
The primary purpose of a dump truck is to transport materials from one place to another.
Typically, a dump truck will be transporting non-fragile items that do not have to be enclosed.
Your average dump truck will also have a hydraulic function that will allow it to automatically dump its load at the destination area.
What Are the Differences Between Dump Trucks?
There are lots of different types of dump trucks. Here’s a look at some of the most common types that you may find:
Standard Dump Truck. A standard dump truck will carry a load in an exposed load area. Typically, the load area will have a hydraulic function.- Transfer Dump Truck. Will be able to tow another movable cargo container behind its rear axle.
- End Dump Truck. Will lift the front of its bin which will allow the container to slide behind the vehicle.
- Side Dump Truck. Has a side dumping mechanism which makes it the fasting type of unloading truck.
- Tri-Axle Dump Truck. Has three axles and is usually used for heavier loads.
- Bottom Dump Truck. This dump truck releases its load from the belly of the trailer.
- Double Bottom Dump Truck. This type releases its load from two belly bay door locations.
- Off-Highway Dump Truck. These are rigid dump trucks usually reserved for mining operations.
The Uses of Dump Trucks
There are several places where dump trucks are used. Here are some of the typical uses:
Moving
Most commonly, dump trucks are used to transport bulk materials from one location to another. The materials that can be moved can range from gravel to produce. Usually, the items being transported are not fragile and not sensitive to outside exposure.
Construction
During construction, tons of material need to be moved onto the worksite. Additionally, tons of items may need to be moved off of the worksite. Dump trucks handle most of the movement of these items.
Transportation of Materials
Dump trucks are also used to transport materials over long distances. For instance, if gravel needs to be moved from a quarry to a city location, then it will usually be transported by a dump truck.
Junk/Snow Removal
When junk or snow needs to be removed, then it will be usually accomplished with a dump truck.
Mining Operations
Mining operations will use heavy-duty off-highway dump trucks to move everything from rocks to dirt which is common in mining operations.
How to Choose The Right Dump Truck For Your Needs
If you need a dump truck, then it is a good idea to ask yourself and answer the right questions before you rent or purchase your vehicle. Here are a few considerations.
Understand How You Are Going To Use It
Many different types of dump trucks offer various features. Therefore, you will want to know how you are going to use the dump truck. This will help narrow down your search.
Understand How Much Capacity You Will Need
Typically, larger dump trucks are going to cost you more whether you are going to purchase or rent the vehicle. Therefore, you should know the capacity that you will need to make sure that you don’t buy more than you need.
Know Your Budget
Be sure to know how much you can afford before you shop. This will make it easier for you to create your vehicle shortlist.
Know The Space Where You Will Be Operating
Since dump trucks can vary widely in size, you will want to have a good idea of your operating space before you acquire one.
