From hauling building materials and demolition scrap to moving gravel, dirt, and rock, dump trucks may seem to come in just a few familiar shapes and sizes. A closer look reveals that each type of truck is as specialized as the role it plays. Here’s a quick rundown on modern models and the jobs they do.

5 Kinds of Dump Trucks to Get the Job Done

1. Transfer

These vehicles increase standard truck capacity by attaching a trailer capable of carrying separate aggregate materials, like wood and stone. The container is powered by an independent motor so that the vehicle’s performance isn’t compromised. Some transfer rigs, also known as truck and pups, feature a trailer equipped with its own hydraulic ram for unloading.

2. Roll-Off

These vehicles exchange a hinged dumping body for a tilting bed that unloads rolling containers. The empty container is returned to the chassis with a winch to be refilled or stored.

3. Standard

Marrying a hydraulic dump bed hinged at the rear to a truck chassis, the standard truck features a smaller wheelbase instead of larger haulers to maximize maneuverability. The standard dump truck is equipped with a front steering axle and one or two rear axles with dual wheels for load support. It’s capable of hauling approximately 13 tons that offload with its rear tailgate.

4. Super

Featuring an additional load-bearing axle that allows for a longer container body, super dump trucks may be slightly less maneuverable but can carry about twice the load of a standard machine, which is approximately 26 tons. When it isn’t hauling, the trailing axle can be retracted to increase maneuverability.

5. Semi Trailer Bottom

These long haulers are comprised of a three-axle tractor that pulls a two-axle trailer. A clam shell dump gate in the trailer’s underbelly allows for windrow offloading, which lays material in a linear heap. Although maneuverability decreases with these longer rigs, multiple trailers can be hitched together to transport materials in sorted groups.

If you need a dump truck for your project, contact the team at Rojac Trucking in Wailuku, HI. For nearly 40 years, this locally owned company has provided Maui businesses with well-maintained vehicles to fulfill their trucking and hauling needs. View their resume online, or call (808) 986-1100 to speak with a specialist about what kind of truck if best for your project.